John David Souther
(November 2, 1945 – September 17, 2024)
was an
American singer,
songwriter,
and actor.
He was
"a principal architect of
the Southern California
sound and a
major influence
on a
generation of songwriters".
Souther wrote
and co-wrote
songs recorded by
Linda Ronstadt
and some of
The Eagles
biggest hits,
including
"Best of My Love",
"Victim of Love",
"Heartache Tonight"
and
"New Kid in Town".
"How Long",
which appeared on
The Eagles'
Long Road Out of Eden,
came from
Souther's
first solo album.
He recorded two hit songs
in his solo career:
"You're Only Lonely"
(1979)
and
"Her Town Too"
(1981),
a duet with
James Taylor.
He had a brief
acting career
and appeared
on TV
and in movies.
He played with
The Eagles
on their
2008 farewell tour.
