Synopsis
"Eagles: Before the Band" by Rik Forgo is an in-depth exploration of the origins and early careers of the members of the Eagles, one of the most influential bands in the history of American rock and roll. The book meticulously traces the individual journeys of Glenn Frey, Don Henley, Randy Meisner, Bernie Leadon, Don Felder, Joe Walsh, and Timothy B. Schmit, focusing on the years leading up to the band's formation in 1971.
Forgo begins by setting the context of the late 1960s and early 1970s music scene, highlighting the influences that would shape the Eagles' sound, including The Beatles, Elvis Presley, The Byrds, and Buffalo Springfield. The narrative delves into each band member's background, detailing their musical inspirations and the small bands they played with across various parts of the U.S. For instance, Glenn Frey's beginnings in Detroit, Don Henley's time with the dive bar circuit in East Texas, and Bernie Leadon's involvement with the Flying Burrito Brothers are explored in detail.
The book follows a season-by-season, year-by-year format, providing a unique perspective on how each member's career evolved. It captures their struggles, triumphs, and the setbacks that helped forge their musical identities. Forgo includes insights into their personal lives, the music industry dynamics of the time, and the cultural shifts that influenced their music.
One of the central themes is the convergence of these individual paths in Los Angeles, where they eventually formed the Eagles. Forgo explains how these musicians, each with their own distinct style and background, came together, influenced by the burgeoning country-rock scene and the likes of Linda Ronstadt, for whom several of them backed up before forming their own group.
The narrative is rich with anecdotes, including the creation of early hits like "Take It Easy," which was co-written by Frey and Jackson Browne, and how these songs reflected the band's evolving sound. The book also covers the band's early successes, their first album, and how their music resonated with the public, leading to gold records for every release in their initial years.
Forgo's approach is encyclopedic, compiling over 1,400 cited references to ensure accuracy, but also weaving a story that feels both personal and historical. He captures the essence of each member's journey, from their humble beginnings to the moment they stood on the precipice of rock legend status, offering readers a comprehensive look at the band's pre-Eagles era. This book not only serves as a biography but also as a cultural chronicle of music's evolution through the eyes of future rock icons.