From Opening Act to Headliner: The Eagles' Journey in the World of Progressive Rock
When rock and country met the world of progressive rock, it was a clash of styles that didn't always mesh well. The Eagles, a country rock band that would go on to become one of the biggest acts of the 1970s, had their fair share of early struggles as they navigated the live music scene in the US.
Formed in Los Angeles in 1971 by Glenn Frey and Don Henley, the Eagles quickly gained attention after signing with Asylum Records and releasing their debut single, "Take It Easy," followed by their self-titled debut album. Despite their rapid rise, the band had to put in the work, playing shows in LA and beyond, often opening for more established acts.
Some of these opening slots made sense, like when they shared the stage with Joe Cocker. However, their pairing with British prog rock bands like Jethro Tull, Yes, and Procol Harum seemed like an odd fit at the time. The Eagles' laid-back country rock style didn't always resonate with the more progressive-leaning audiences of these bands.
Despite the mismatched pairings, the Eagles persevered and gained valuable experience from these early shows. While their time opening for Jethro Tull was described as an "absolute mismatch," their interactions with Yes and Procol Harum were more positive, with the members of those bands offering support and kindness to the up-and-coming Americans.
In the end, these early experiences helped shape the Eagles' career and prepared them for the success that would come later. The band's journey from opening act to headliner is a testament to their talent and perseverance in the face of challenging circumstances.