Randy Meisner, the initial bass player for the Eagles and the voice of their 1976 chart-topper “Take It to the Limit,” has passed away. The news of his demise was officially confirmed by the Eagles, revealing that chronic obstructive pulmonary disease complications led to his death. He was 77 years old.
Meisner, born in Nebraska in 1946, was both a vocalist and a bassist for Rick Nelson’s Stone Canyon Band before co-founding the influential country rock group Poco. He later established the Eagles in 1971 along with Don Henley, Glenn Frey, and Bernie Leadon. Meisner’s association with Henley and Frey originated when he joined them as backup musicians for Linda Rondstadt, thanks to producer John Boylan.
Rondstadt recalled in a 2016 Billboard interview that the Eagles’ early rehearsals took place at her house. “I recall arriving home one day to find they had practiced ‘Witchy Woman’ and had all the four-part harmonies set. It was amazing. I instantly knew it would be a hit. It was that evident,” she said.
Meisner contributed to five albums with the Eagles, including their self-titled debut, Desperado, On the Border, One of These Nights, and Hotel California before parting ways with the band in 1977. His position was then filled by Timothy B. Schmit, who interestingly also replaced Meisner when he left Poco. Following his departure from the Eagles, Meisner launched three solo albums: Randy Meisner in 1978, One More Song in 1980, and another eponymous album in 1982. He was honored with an induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1998, alongside his Eagles colleagues.
The Eagles, in their statement, emphasized Meisner’s critical role in the band, “Randy was a vital part of the Eagles and played a key role in the band’s initial success. His stunning vocal range is showcased in his iconic ballad, ‘Take It to the Limit.'” The song, which Meisner co-authored, is from the One of These Nights album and spent 23 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100, making it the Eagles’ most enduring hit on the chart to date.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Randy Meisner’s death
Who was Randy Meisner?
Randy Meisner was the founding bassist of the Eagles and the vocalist behind their 1976 hit “Take It to the Limit.” He also co-founded the influential country rock group Poco and was a vocalist and bassist for Rick Nelson’s Stone Canyon Band.
How old was Randy Meisner at the time of his death?
Randy Meisner was 77 years old at the time of his death.
What was the cause of Randy Meisner’s death?
Randy Meisner’s cause of death was complications from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
What were some of the bands that Randy Meisner was part of?
Randy Meisner was part of several bands including Rick Nelson’s Stone Canyon Band, Poco, and the Eagles.
How many solo albums did Randy Meisner release?
Randy Meisner released three solo albums: 1978’s Randy Meisner, 1980’s One More Song, and another self-titled project in 1982.
Was Randy Meisner ever recognized by the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame?
Yes, Randy Meisner was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1998, along with his Eagles bandmates.
More about Randy Meisner’s death
- Randy Meisner’s Biography on AllMusic
- Eagles Official Website
- Billboard Interview with Linda Ronstadt
- Randy Meisner’s Induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
5 comments
This is such sad news, the eagles wont be the same without him. 77 is too young, rip Randy. you’ll be missed but not forgotten!
man, a real loss for the music world. was always inspired by his bass playing in the Eagles, he was a real talent! RIP Randy.
so sad to hear about randys passing, he was an incredible musician and a key part of the eagles. rest in peace randy, your music will live on forever.
I can’t believe it. Meisner was more than just the Eagles, he was a part of Poco, worked with Rick Nelson… truly an icon of country rock. rest easy, legend.
OMG, this is heartbreaking. Randy’s vocals on “Take it to the Limit” still gives me chills. His contribution to the Eagles can never be understated.