JD Souther, Famed Songwriter, Eagles and Linda Ronstadt Collaborator, Dies at 78

JD Souther, the renowned singer and songwriter who co-wrote hit songs with the Eagles and Linda Ronstadt, has passed away at the age of 78. According to his representative, Souther died peacefully at his home in New Mexico, though the cause of death has not been disclosed. He was preparing to tour with Karla Bonoff.

A Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee, Souther was instrumental in crafting some of the Eagles’ most memorable hits, including “Best of My Love,” “Victim of Love,” “Heartache Tonight,” and “New Kid in Town.” He also collaborated with Ronstadt on classic tracks like “Prisoner in Disguise,” “Sometimes You Can’t Win,” and “Hearts Against the Wind.” His successful solo career featured hits such as “You’re Only Lonely” and “Her Town Too,” a duet with James Taylor.

Born John David Souther on November 2, 1945, in Detroit, Michigan, and raised in Amarillo, Texas, Souther began his music career in the local scene. His first band, The Cinders, released a single in 1965 under the name John David and The Cinders. After moving to Los Angeles in the late 1960s, he formed a close partnership with Glenn Frey, which led to the creation of the country rock band Longbranch Pennywhistle. Their self-titled album was released in 1969.

Souther’s friendship with Frey brought him into a creative circle with Don Henley and Linda Ronstadt. Although he was considered for the Eagles, he never joined the band but played a crucial role in co-writing several of their major hits. From the 26-times platinum album *Hotel California,  Souther co-wrote “New Kid in Town” and “Victim of Love.” He also contributed to the 1974 album On the Border with “You Never Cry Like a Lover,” “Best of My Love,” and “James Dean,” and co-wrote three tracks, including the No.1 single “Heartache Tonight,” for the 1979 album The Long Run.