JD Souther, a member of the Songwriters Hall of Fame and co-writer of many hits by the Eagles, died at his Santa Fe home on Tuesday (September 17) at the age of 78. Souther is best known as a frequent co-writer of classic hits by the Eagles, including their first Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 hit, “Best of My Love,” the 1979 No. 1 smash, “Heartache Tonight,” and “New Kid In Town,” the chart-topping lead single from their 26x-platinum album, Hotel California. Souther was also a successful solo musician in his own right, charting a Top 10 hit in 1979, “You’re Only Lonely.”
He collaborated with James Taylor and Linda Ronstadt, and his songs were recorded by the Chicks, George Strait, and Bonnie Raitt. The Eagles paid tribute to Souther with a statement on their website that reads, “We have lost a brother, a friend and a brilliant collaborator, and the world has lost a great songwriter. He was an extraordinary man and will be greatly missed by many. Adios, old friend. Travel well.” (Variety)