Boys of Summer, my absolute favourite song for hot summer days at the beach. Always get a shiver down my spine when I the hear the opening guitar intro.
Yes, Adam. I lost my dad to cancer in 2011 after also losing my grandpa and having a stroke. What a year from hell that was. Revisit those great memories you have, listening to great music together. God bless you!
Desperado is an Eagles song with Don Henley on vocals. It is one of the greatest songs of all time, and Henley gives the most haunting, heart wrenching vocals.
Boys of Summer is my all-time favorite song, period. It led me to Don’s other work later in life, and solidified me as a lifelong Eagles fan. But, MAN! Garden of Allah is a deliciously wicked little tune. You Don’t Know Me At All...WOW those lyrics! All she wants to do is dance is a banger. And his cover of Everybody Knows is sooooo smooth and soulful. Don Henley is tops in my book. Good video, Prof!
I'm glad you mentioned Everybody Knows. Although I ended up buying his greatest hits because of the extra tracks, I bought Tower of Song much earlier, and I have no idea why. I barely knew Leonard Cohen. Maybe it was because it had several artists I like, and it's very possible it was one of those choices I made when you could get 300 CDs for a penny from Columbia in their introductory offers, LOL, but Don blew me away. I've loved that song ever since.
music written by tom petty's guitarist. tom was pissed when henley got charted with it, but admitted it was better than the lyrics he had written [his book]
Comment Freely , Wow! I never knew that. What an amazing little nugget of rock history you’ve delivered. I’m also a huge fan of Petty, be it solo, with the Heartbreakers, Mudcrutch, or as a Wilbury. Thanks for filling me in!
Heart of the Matter came out at the exact time I had just broken up with the love of my life. It was the perfect song at the perfect time. That song still hits me after all these years...
“Little voice inside my head said, ‘don’t look back, you can never look back’...” That whole phrase is brilliant. Talk about capturing a moment in time!
Love Hornsby's piano! He and Steve Winwood are both exceptional songwriters in their own right. Don Henley is a ridiculously gifted lyricist. Hard to imagine anyone deeper and more metaphorical in his writing.
Heart of the Matter gets to me everytime. It affects me the same way as it always has. Hadn't heard it in over year,but here I am tearing up again,almost balling out loud. It takes me to that same emotional place. THAT vocal! You're killing me man! Lol.
I remember hearing *Heart of the Matter* for the first time. I cried at the end because that awful feeling I was hiding inside - for years - had burst through to the top. I had heard those voices outside love's open door - and had thrown off my contentment and was begging for something more. But I had kids, and now 30 years later, I still beg for something more.
Another honorable mention should have gone to I Will Not Go Quietly. Great song about Don's attitude in life of those trying to sweep him away and killer back up vocals by Axl Rose
Glenn Frey (especially) didn't want you to call them THE Eagles; just "Eagles." But like most, "The Eagles" always rolls off my tongue. I was in the U.S. Navy in the 1970's and had the wonderful opportunity to see them live IN California (San Diego) on the "Hotel California" tour. I'm living a very blessed life, and Don Henley and (the) Eagles have been a vital part of my life's sound track. An Eagles album was my first album, and Don Henley has always been my favorite vocalist. I don't receive RUclips comments notifications, but if you give me a "click" I can turn you on to the most important information in this entire Universe, including The Meaning of Life and the answer to the coronavirus - and the cure for cancer, no less! I'm a teacher and prophet of God, and yes, "Heart of the Matter" IS Scriptural. If only Christians would learn what Yeshua One with Christ ("Jesus Christ") is REALLY teaching. (Hint: When God says "good news" God means GOOD NEWS!!!) Namaste!
Adam, after listening to you explain the nuances of each song make us go back and stop hearing the music, and listen to the words...you sir, are more than the Professor of Rock, you are the PHD of Reflection.
Thank you for making me develop an even deeper appreciation of Don Henley's solo material Professor. Sunset Grill is one of my favourite tracks from the 80's and is proof of Henley's ability to paint with words.
The hallmark of a brilliant songwriter & storyteller is demonstrated by how prescient his lyrics remain. I mean geez, his quote @ about the ten minute mark was just as applicable to today as it was when he made it. To me Don's lyrics are always "cut right to the bone", they can fill you with pure joy or make you feel sadness beyond compare.
@@krisscanlon4051 The way I heard it it’s Joe on the first solo? He does that asending diminished lick that is kind of a signature of his. Lukather on the 2nd one which is a shreddfest, they are both outstanding either way!
"Boys of Summer" always takes me back to my parents driving my brothers and I back from our local mall at night and the street lights going by out side the car for some reason..
Don Henley sang about us children of the 60's growing up , some sold out, some rebelled, some never grew up and some burnt out. He gave us a mirror image of what we wished for, hoped for and worked for and what we ended up with after all this time.
I,m so impressed with the proffessors verbal depiction of both his reflections on the album and his personal emotional memories , this channel and his presentation skills are simply superb .
“New York Minute”....how could that not be your #1??? Hell, it should be everyone’s #1! The music, the lyrics, the atmosphere....it’s fucking brilliant!!
I love Don Henley. His country album, “Cass Country,” often gets overlooked. In that album he captures the soul of a country boy and the tough times farmers have gone through. “Praying for Rain” will rip your heart out as will “Word Will Break Your Heart..”
yeah, that was a great album. Some great songs you can add to Henley's cannon. Another overlooked album is the last one by the Eagles. Waiting in the Weeds is one of my top 5 Henley songs of all time.
" Talkin" to the Moon ", to me , was the standout piece on his first solo album. I must have listened to that song a thousand times. Like most great singers, it's the ballads that really stand out.
Adam---I was 48 when my Dad died, just 3 months after I had moved He and Mom some 500 miles west to my bigger small town where my adult professions and my wife's had settled with good progress. I always say to a friend who says goodbye to a parent (and, I too was close to my Dad, much through music) is experiencing the hardest part of growing up. The only thing that got me through it, was the sharing of deep and firm Christian faith with my Father(s); the heavenly one and my earthly one. Perhaps the musical link you had with your father, if not "faith" will get you through it. You will never "get over it." May you be supported and blessed, Adam.
My wife and I got to see Don Henley live on the End of the Innocence tour in Austin, TX. Loved the album, but the biggest thrill was his encore. After singing at a stand up microphone all night, the lights came back up after a break and he was on the drums and did 6 or 7 of his biggest Eagles hits. Great show!
Mike Campbell wrote the song. He first offered a demo version to Tom Petty and he turned it down. Henley was wise enough to snap it up after the first listen. Tom Petty called passing on "Boys of Summer", the biggest mistake of his recording career.
What a beautiful take on one of the greatest artistic works and writers of our time. End of the Innocence is definitely in my top 3 favorite albums ever, and I shared a similar experience with my dad and that album. God bless you professor of Rock 🤘💜
only listening to boys of summer...always a great song when the sun is out cruising the road, and also blasting out glenn frey's the heat is on such great tunes definitely a must for any playlist
The way that you can convey the relatable elements of music is truly magical. Talking about your small town roots ( I’m from Yellow Springs Ohio, population: 4k ) your dad and how music is interwoven into our very core... powerful stuff..thanking you again!
Dude - you have an amazing way with words. The way you unpick the meaning behind the lyrics and reflect on how it touches you, and ultimately many of us, is inspiring. Thank you for reminding me why Don’s music has such a special place in my heart too. We may quibble over your the order of the top 5, but not over the man’s amazing contribution to music and the many he has touched with it ... Keep up the great content!
5 - Dirty Laundry 4 - Taking You Home 3 - Boys of Summer 2 - In a New York Minute 1 - Heart of the Matter Not much different but I have to include “Taking You Home”. That song always makes me pause and wipe away a tear.
Hi I agree with you about Heart Of The Matter. It is so moving. The lyric "Even if, even if you don't love me anymore." Breaks my heart. I have all of Don's solo albums and a DVD of his solo concert. His voice is sublime, so touching. The Last Resort and Wasted Time with the Eagles are emotional too.
Don Henley once said that "Heart of the Matter" is his all-time most important work. I'm a teacher and prophet of God, and yes, "Heart of the Matter" IS Scriptural. If only Christians would learn what Yeshua One with Christ ("Jesus Christ") is REALLY teaching. (Hint: When God says "good news" God means GOOD NEWS!!!) The secrets of the Universe are just a "click" away. Namaste!
I'm an 80s baby, so I grew up with Don Henley's music. I have always loved his music, always jammed to it. It's been a guide for my whole life. Boys of Summer one of the music videos ever! And Don's voice is so amazing! He's one of my all time favorite vocalists. As for his solo work, it's amazing! So different from his stuff from the Eagles. In fact, I didn't even know who the Eagles were until I was a teen (I'm a fan now). Excellent stuff! God bless.
"I've been tryin' to get down To the heart of the matter But my will gets weak And my thoughts seem to scatter But I think it's about forgiveness Forgiveness Even if, even if you don't love me anymore" - Don Henley
I’ve never agreed more perfectly with a RUclips music commentary video. End of the Innocence, the album, meant so much to my mother and I, growing up, and those songs, Heart of the Matter the most, mean more, even today.
Great take on this Professor... from "Desperado" to "Heart of the Matter," Henley's vocals are so unique and unmistakable. So appreciate how you dive deeply into the lyrics and harvest the emotions that lie within them!
Didn’t really care what 3, 4 and 5 were as long as those were the top two. In that order. Hear of the Matter is probably my all time favorite song. Thank you.
My Don Henley 5er: 5. For My Wedding (I had this song played at my wedding almost 20 years ago, favorite part So what makes us any different from all the others Who have tried and failed before us Maybe nothing, maybe nothing at all But I pray we're the lucky ones; I pray we never fall Happy to say I'm still happily married to this day) 4. I will Not Go Quietly (Axl Rose's harmony on this song is what makes it even better) 3. Heart of the Matter (getting older I've learned to forgive, especially myself for dumb stuff) 2. Dirty Laundry (never gets old to listen to) 1. Boys of Summer (perfect song, one of my all time favorites)
Don Henley once said that "Heart of the Matter" is his all-time most important work. I'm a teacher and prophet of God, and yes, "Heart of the Matter" IS Scriptural. If only Christians would learn what Yeshua One with Christ ("Jesus Christ") is REALLY teaching! (Hint: When God says "good news" God means GOOD NEWS!!!) Yes, forgive yourself first and foremost. Because, GOD is in control; not you! The secrets of the Universe are just a "click" away. Namaste!
Another home run of a vid, Prof. Just hope it doesn't get taken down since Henley is known as a notorious blocker, unless permission was obtained to use clips or something. Love the content, keep it coming!
One of my favorite Don Henley songs. I totally agree. The spirit of the song comes through every time I play it on my guitar. You did this review total justice!! Mic drop dude!!
You're pretty invaluable just for bringing up all these performers and bands so we can go listen and love it all over again. Keeping track of all of them is a full time job. And you do great at it.
Young Man I could not agree with your thoughts and sentiments more. Don Henley and the Eagles are incredible Singers & Songwriters.It's been a Blessing on my soul and Heart. I also would play their records and listen with my father in the 70's, a cold beer in our hand and warm understanding smiles on our faces.My Dad has also crossed over, but I have these beautiful memories. Amen
Well done dude...very touching. Listening to Don Henley reminds me of my father as well. “The End of the Innocence” was a frequently played in my house and my Dad’s car. Sorry about your father. RIP.
Saw Don Henley as a teenager at Irvine Meadows in 84 or 85. Was a fantastic evening. Highlight for me was him playing drums and singing Witchy Woman. Did not expect to hear that song. His tour drumming was a lefty and he joked how difficult it was playing backwards drums. I was lucky enough to see Leather and Lace performed live at the Forum with both Stevie and Don singing it.
Great that you took those opportunities, Shaman. I was in the US Navy in the 1970's and was fortunate enough to see (the) Eagles in San Diego on their "Hotel California" tour. I am a Spiritual Shaman of sorts myself, and I've discovered the secrets of the Universe. I wrote a book that reveals the greatest secrets, including The Meaning of Life. And if you give me a "click" you'll get a lot of info from my channel. (I don't receive comments notifications, but you'll find how to contact me if you want to.) Namaste!
Don Henley is probably my favorite singer and lyricist of all time. All his songs are "story" songs that touch the heart and fire the imagination. His songs, voice and insightful lyrics are always there when I need them most. I never get tired of hearing them.
The end of innocence is one of those songs that penetrates you from the moment you start to listen to it. I loved that song in so many ways the first time I heard it and it's one of my all time favorite songs. The melody, the instruments, the voice, the lyrics. Everything in that songs is just... Don't know how to say it, but I'm sure you understand. Recently I uploaded an 80's mix to Mixcloud and shared the link with my friends and family. This cousin who lives in Miami calls me saying that there's a lot of songs he haven't heard in ages and then he says, and I quote "Bro, when Boys of summer is introduced in the mix I got goosebumps". A great song that makes me remember my younger years.
I am not just a fan of music.. but a real, passionate music fan. This channel and the Professor really speak my language. Keep up the great work, I love every bit of content!
Bro trying to nail down his top 5 solo songs is about impossible...but congrats, you did better than anyone I’ve seen!! I’m so glad you picked Heart of the Matter as number one. This song has meant so much to me over the years.
I was 13 when i saw the Eagles at the Yale Bowl , and there began my love affair with don Henley's voice, he's one of the greatest songwriters of all time and i smile when one of my kids asks to borrow a Henley or an Eagles album, Talent is timeless and his music bridges generations, .. thanks Prof
Mr. Henley REALLY IS an ABSOLUETLY INCREDIBLE lyricist and THAT is what made HIS solo career out pace ALL of the other Eagles EXPONENTIALLY ! But every single one of the Eagles band members were MAGNIFICENT in their own right and could sing and write and play their own masterpieces..... Just one example of this is Randy Meisner and his song "Take it to the Limit". Audiences the world over came to the Eagle concerts hoping and dreaming --(if not PRAYING ! ! !) that they would get to hear Randy sing THAT amazing song , which NO ONE will EVER be able to replicate ! His INCREDiBLE high notes at the end of that song will NEVER be duplicated by ANYONE....and even tho' all of the song's lyrics are good, it is those untouchable "Aaaah"s at the end that we all LOVE and can't wait to hear HIM and ONLY HIM do. The only regretable part this band's journey to the tip top peak of both rock and country music greatness is the inability of the two founding members (Don Henley and Glen Frey) to extend a hand of "FORGIVENESS" and REACCEPTANCE to THE BEST lead guitarist they have EVER had....Don Felder....! HE is one more piece of this band that is REALLY....IRREPLACABLE ! ! ! Yes they have other people who can play what HE CREATED, but without Mr. Felder, THE MOST WELL KNOWN....across the ENTIRE WORLD...Eagles song, (Hotel California) would never have been written. It was HIS musical genius that gave birth to that legendary Rock and Roll ICON. And without HIM it would never have been, period! .....and Mr. Frey and Mr. Henley have the ARROGANCE and AUDACITY to throw away THAT BRILLIANT PART of "their" band...!?! That travesty is....UN-BELIEVABLY stupid, as well as......sad.
You are DEAD RIGHT about Heart of the Matter. I have shed so many tears listening to this song. I as a pastor myself agree that it is indeed modern day scripture.
Thank you so much Prof, I am on your wavelength about Don Henley. My 5'er: 5 - Drivin With Your Eyes Closed - A quirky little song with some great guitar work, love the arrangement. 4 - Sunset Grill - An existential song about everyday life and a cautionary tale that hanging out at the bar probably won't get you very far away from whatever you're trying to escape. 3 - New York Minute - Your thoughts on the song echo mine. All I can add is Pino Palladino's bass work is epic on it. 2 - A Month of Sundays - this song reminds of my late grandpa and all his friends who returned home from World War II and made their living on family farms, not unlike the first-person character of the song. The song is haunted by the spectre of family farms going away in the 1980's without Don ever calling direct mention of it in the lyrics. Moves me tears almost every time. 1 - Boys of Summer - my interpretation of this song was more like the video than anything political ... that guy in midlife who is rich and has it all but it means nothing because he's haunted by his young love that got away and his memories can't stop coming back.
IMO, Talking To the Moon is one of his absolute best performances ever! And, lucky me, I live 15 miles from Don’s hometown and have met and seen him perform numerous times, both with the Eagles and as a solo performer!
I owned The End of the Innocence on cassette back in the day, but left it behind as I steadily switched over to CD's. I had all but forgotten how "The Heart of the Matter" used to just tear me up back then. So I had to find it here on RUclips and give it another listen, and man, all these decades later nothing has changed. It still goes right for your soul.
Adam, I think you are brilliant! I don't know how you got to this point in your life but glad you did...thank you for sharing your stories and this wonderful music! Love and loved Don Henley's music...
Professor, I agree completely. It seems impossible to choose 5 songs to identify Don Henley's brilliance; there needs to be room for A Month of Sundays. Still, The Heart of The Matter is my favorite too.
Best channel on RUclips.
For a music junkie & ex-industry worker it's definitely on a short list. Going daily was long over due in my humble opinion...
I agree! Such a good channel. I'm 23 and this kind of music is all that I listen too. Keep up the good work Professor!
how don henley blocked people from hearing his music and buying his songs
Boys of Summer, my absolute favourite song for hot summer days at the beach. Always get a shiver down my spine when I the hear the opening guitar intro.
Yes
Saw Don Henley and was left awestruck by his voice and his performance. He is one of my all time favorite musicians.
Out of all the Eagles, Don Henley is my favourite artist. His songs are timeless.
“Heart Of The Matter” and “Boys Of Summer” are amazing songs.
Both with Mike Campbell’s touch on it.
NY Minute is awesome too.
Those are my 2 favorite.
Bring a tear to your eye
Also I will not go quietly axl rose back up vocals
Adam, sorry to hear of the recent loss of your dad. I'm sure he would be proud of the amazing work you're doing here.
Yes, Adam. I lost my dad to cancer in 2011 after also losing my grandpa and having a stroke. What a year from hell that was. Revisit those great memories you have, listening to great music together. God bless you!
A Month Of Sundays - another overlooked masterpiece
Don Henley's lyrics don't get highlighted enough. Dude's incredible at singing and at coming up with something to say.
Desperado is an Eagles song with Don Henley on vocals. It is one of the greatest songs of all time, and Henley gives the most haunting, heart wrenching vocals.
Boys of Summer is my all-time favorite song, period. It led me to Don’s other work later in life, and solidified me as a lifelong Eagles fan. But, MAN! Garden of Allah is a deliciously wicked little tune. You Don’t Know Me At All...WOW those lyrics! All she wants to do is dance is a banger. And his cover of Everybody Knows is sooooo smooth and soulful. Don Henley is tops in my book. Good video, Prof!
I'm glad you mentioned Everybody Knows. Although I ended up buying his greatest hits because of the extra tracks, I bought Tower of Song much earlier, and I have no idea why. I barely knew Leonard Cohen. Maybe it was because it had several artists I like, and it's very possible it was one of those choices I made when you could get 300 CDs for a penny from Columbia in their introductory offers, LOL, but Don blew me away. I've loved that song ever since.
My favorite song of his easily and one I never get tired of hearing.
music written by tom petty's guitarist. tom was pissed when henley got charted with it, but admitted it was better than the lyrics he had written [his book]
Comment Freely , Wow! I never knew that. What an amazing little nugget of rock history you’ve delivered. I’m also a huge fan of Petty, be it solo, with the Heartbreakers, Mudcrutch, or as a Wilbury. Thanks for filling me in!
There is no other voice in the world like his. It can soothe you when your heart is aching.
Heart of the Matter came out at the exact time I had just broken up with the love of my life. It was the perfect song at the perfect time. That song still hits me after all these years...
New York Minute will always be one of my favorite songs. Such an amazing intro
The Don has always been my favourite. Talking to the moon has to be up there in the top 3.
“Out on the road today I saw a Deadhead sticker on a Cadillac.” Brilliant
When the song came out, I was too young to appreciate the meaning of that. The older you get, the more profound and personal you find his lyrics.
A little voice inside my head said
Don't look back you could never look back.😉☺
“Little voice inside my head said, ‘don’t look back, you can never look back’...”
That whole phrase is brilliant. Talk about capturing a moment in time!
Growing up, I always thought that line was ‘saw a dead head stick around a Cadillac’!!
thought you said dickhead sticker
Dirty Laundry. One of those songs you remember where you were when you first heard it.
I always love Last Worthless Evening.
I agree with the Prof on Heart of the Matter as #1, but Last Worthless Evening is probably my #2.
Hopeless romantics. :)
Last Worthless Evening is my favorite!
Love Hornsby's piano! He and Steve Winwood are both exceptional songwriters in their own right. Don Henley is a ridiculously gifted lyricist. Hard to imagine anyone deeper and more metaphorical in his writing.
Heart of the Matter gets to me everytime. It affects me the same way as it always has. Hadn't heard it in over year,but here I am tearing up again,almost balling out loud. It takes me to that same emotional place. THAT vocal! You're killing me man! Lol.
A very pure and transcendent song. A breakup song for grownups, I guess one could say. Bittersweet.
The Boys of Summer is my favorite song of all time.
I remember hearing *Heart of the Matter* for the first time. I cried at the end because that awful feeling I was hiding inside - for years - had burst through to the top. I had heard those voices outside love's open door - and had thrown off my contentment and was begging for something more. But I had kids, and now 30 years later, I still beg for something more.
The Don Henleys " Building the Perfect Beast"" is one of the greatest 80's albums..
Another honorable mention should have gone to I Will Not Go Quietly. Great song about Don's attitude in life of those trying to sweep him away and killer back up vocals by Axl Rose
The Eagles: My All-Time favorite Group......... Don Henley: My All-Time Favorite Artist !!!! Awesome !!
Glenn Frey (especially) didn't want you to call them THE Eagles; just "Eagles." But like most, "The Eagles" always rolls off my tongue. I was in the U.S. Navy in the 1970's and had the wonderful opportunity to see them live IN California (San Diego) on the "Hotel California" tour. I'm living a very blessed life, and Don Henley and (the) Eagles have been a vital part of my life's sound track. An Eagles album was my first album, and Don Henley has always been my favorite vocalist. I don't receive RUclips comments notifications, but if you give me a "click" I can turn you on to the most important information in this entire Universe, including The Meaning of Life and the answer to the coronavirus - and the cure for cancer, no less! I'm a teacher and prophet of God, and yes, "Heart of the Matter" IS Scriptural. If only Christians would learn what Yeshua One with Christ ("Jesus Christ") is REALLY teaching. (Hint: When God says "good news" God means GOOD NEWS!!!) Namaste!
Adam, after listening to you explain the nuances of each song make us go back and stop hearing the music, and listen to the words...you sir, are more than the Professor of Rock, you are the PHD of Reflection.
Thank you for making me develop an even deeper appreciation of Don Henley's solo material Professor.
Sunset Grill is one of my favourite tracks from the 80's and is proof of Henley's ability to paint with words.
The hallmark of a brilliant songwriter & storyteller is demonstrated by how prescient his lyrics remain. I mean geez, his quote @ about the ten minute mark was just as applicable to today as it was when he made it. To me Don's lyrics are always "cut right to the bone", they can fill you with pure joy or make you feel sadness beyond compare.
Dirty Laundry for me, especially in this day and age.
Walsh's solo on Dirty Laundry is freaking outstanding.
I never knew that was Walsh until now!
Lukather first solo Joe second blaring one...almost seemed like he was trying to blow away Lukather.
@@krisscanlon4051 The way I heard it it’s Joe on the first solo? He does that asending diminished lick that is kind of a signature of his. Lukather on the 2nd one which is a shreddfest, they are both outstanding either way!
@@todhamilton5055 Joe does the first solo, Lukather does the outro
I never knew that
"Boys of Summer" always takes me back to my parents driving my brothers and I back from our local mall at night and the street lights going by out side the car for some reason..
Don Henley sang about us children of the 60's growing up , some sold out, some rebelled, some never grew up and some burnt out. He gave us a mirror image of what we wished for, hoped for and worked for and what we ended up with after all this time.
I,m so impressed with the proffessors verbal depiction of both his reflections on the album and his personal emotional memories , this channel and his presentation skills are simply superb .
“New York Minute”....how could that not be your #1??? Hell, it should be everyone’s #1!
The music, the lyrics, the atmosphere....it’s fucking brilliant!!
Crap, wait, “Boys Of Summer” should be everyone’s #1, dammit!
Ok, ok, there are too many good ones here....
I love Don Henley. His country album, “Cass Country,” often gets overlooked. In that album he captures the soul of a country boy and the tough times farmers have gone through. “Praying for Rain” will rip your heart out as will “Word Will Break Your Heart..”
Greg Edwards agreed
yeah, that was a great album. Some great songs you can add to Henley's cannon. Another overlooked album is the last one by the Eagles. Waiting in the Weeds is one of my top 5 Henley songs of all time.
@@lynnturman8157 Yeah what a song
" Talkin" to the Moon ", to me , was the standout piece on his first solo album. I must have listened to that song a thousand times. Like most great singers, it's the ballads that really stand out.
And yet it wasn't on Actual Miles, for some reason known only to Don...
Me too
cherrish those memories Professor of Rock! You're dad would be proud.
Adam---I was 48 when my Dad died, just 3 months after I had moved He and Mom some 500 miles west to my bigger small town where my adult professions and my wife's had settled with good progress. I always say to a friend who says goodbye to a parent (and, I too was close to my Dad, much through music) is experiencing the hardest part of growing up. The only thing that got me through it, was the sharing of deep and firm Christian faith with my Father(s); the heavenly one and my earthly one. Perhaps the musical link you had with your father, if not "faith" will get you through it. You will never "get over it." May you be supported and blessed, Adam.
My wife and I got to see Don Henley live on the End of the Innocence tour in Austin, TX. Loved the album, but the biggest thrill was his encore. After singing at a stand up microphone all night, the lights came back up after a break and he was on the drums and did 6 or 7 of his biggest Eagles hits. Great show!
Don ✍ a great song " The Boys Of Summer " & had a great video for it as MTV was dominating the industry. Timing was perfect.
Mike Campbell wrote the song. He first offered a demo version to Tom Petty and he turned it down. Henley was wise enough to snap it up after the first listen.
Tom Petty called passing on "Boys of Summer", the biggest mistake of his recording career.
@@charlie-obrien Never knew that .. I guess Henley only added a few of his own lyrics 🤷. Thanks for the information. Good trivia question.
One of my all time favorite artists from one of my all time favorite bands Leather and Lace, Boys Of Summer, and Heart Of The Matter
What a beautiful take on one of the greatest artistic works and writers of our time. End of the Innocence is definitely in my top 3 favorite albums ever, and I shared a similar experience with my dad and that album. God bless you professor of Rock 🤘💜
only listening to boys of summer...always a great song when the sun is out cruising the road, and also blasting out glenn frey's the heat is on such great tunes definitely a must for any playlist
RIP to your Dad, My father taught me about music and to love the differences in all of it.
The way that you can convey the relatable elements of music is truly magical. Talking about your small town roots ( I’m from Yellow Springs Ohio, population: 4k ) your dad and how music is interwoven into our very core... powerful stuff..thanking you again!
I feel like I have so much more appreciation for these songs and the lyrics than I did when I was younger. They are truly touching...
Dude - you have an amazing way with words. The way you unpick the meaning behind the lyrics and reflect on how it touches you, and ultimately many of us, is inspiring. Thank you for reminding me why Don’s music has such a special place in my heart too. We may quibble over your the order of the top 5, but not over the man’s amazing contribution to music and the many he has touched with it ... Keep up the great content!
5 - Dirty Laundry
4 - Taking You Home
3 - Boys of Summer
2 - In a New York Minute
1 - Heart of the Matter
Not much different but I have to include “Taking You Home”. That song always makes me pause and wipe away a tear.
The Professor has an OUTSTANDING Vocabulary and knows how to use his words to describe his feelings toward these songs!!
I love Don's "Heart of the Matter." It's my favorite solo song of his. However, each of Don's solo albums are deep. He's a truly remarkable artist.
A video about Don Henley. . .number of views=number of likes. . .sounds right.
Hi I agree with you about Heart Of The Matter. It is so moving. The lyric "Even if, even if you don't love me anymore." Breaks my heart. I have all of Don's solo albums and a DVD of his solo concert. His voice is sublime, so touching. The Last Resort and Wasted Time with the Eagles are emotional too.
Don Henley once said that "Heart of the Matter" is his all-time most important work. I'm a teacher and prophet of God, and yes, "Heart of the Matter" IS Scriptural. If only Christians would learn what Yeshua One with Christ ("Jesus Christ") is REALLY teaching. (Hint: When God says "good news" God means GOOD NEWS!!!) The secrets of the Universe are just a "click" away. Namaste!
Yes, the end of The Last Resort also highlights his vocal brilliance.
Right there with you on "Heart of the Matter" probably my favorite Henley song
Sunset Grille and Boys of Summer as well as A Month of Sunday’s, it’s always overlooked and never or rarely if ever played on the radio.
I'm an 80s baby, so I grew up with Don Henley's music. I have always loved his music, always jammed to it. It's been a guide for my whole life. Boys of Summer one of the music videos ever! And Don's voice is so amazing! He's one of my all time favorite vocalists. As for his solo work, it's amazing! So different from his stuff from the Eagles. In fact, I didn't even know who the Eagles were until I was a teen (I'm a fan now). Excellent stuff! God bless.
"I've been tryin' to get down
To the heart of the matter
But my will gets weak
And my thoughts seem to scatter
But I think it's about forgiveness
Forgiveness
Even if, even if you don't love me anymore" - Don Henley
That's my favorite Don solo song!
The Best of my Love was a masterpiece. Desperado was right up there a long with Wasted Time, victim of Love , and on and on.
Boys of summer speaks perfectly to the one perfect summer I was allotted. I miss those days. Most underrated Eagle? Don Felder.
I’ve never agreed more perfectly with a RUclips music commentary video. End of the Innocence, the album, meant so much to my mother and I, growing up, and those songs, Heart of the Matter the most, mean more, even today.
The End Of Innocence is one song that speaks to my soul..... And done with another legend, Bruce Hornsby. I can't get enough of it!
Best Don Henley song- How Bad Do You want It...you would walk on your lips through busted glass to get next to that. What a line.
I used that for years thereafter to describe how strongly I felt for a girl.
Great take on this Professor... from "Desperado" to "Heart of the Matter," Henley's vocals are so unique and unmistakable. So appreciate how you dive deeply into the lyrics and harvest the emotions that lie within them!
Didn’t really care what 3, 4 and 5 were as long as those were the top two. In that order. Hear of the Matter is probably my all time favorite song. Thank you.
My Don Henley 5er:
5. For My Wedding (I had this song played at my wedding almost 20 years ago, favorite part So what makes us any different from all the others
Who have tried and failed before us
Maybe nothing, maybe nothing at all
But I pray we're the lucky ones; I pray we never fall
Happy to say I'm still happily married to this day)
4. I will Not Go Quietly (Axl Rose's harmony on this song is what makes it even better)
3. Heart of the Matter (getting older I've learned to forgive, especially myself for dumb stuff)
2. Dirty Laundry (never gets old to listen to)
1. Boys of Summer (perfect song, one of my all time favorites)
Great 5er.
If Henley watched this, i would be shocked. Great musician.......
Boys of Summer #1 too
Don Henley once said that "Heart of the Matter" is his all-time most important work. I'm a teacher and prophet of God, and yes, "Heart of the Matter" IS Scriptural. If only Christians would learn what Yeshua One with Christ ("Jesus Christ") is REALLY teaching! (Hint: When God says "good news" God means GOOD NEWS!!!) Yes, forgive yourself first and foremost. Because, GOD is in control; not you! The secrets of the Universe are just a "click" away. Namaste!
Another home run of a vid, Prof. Just hope it doesn't get taken down since Henley is known as a notorious blocker, unless permission was obtained to use clips or something. Love the content, keep it coming!
You said it well man. All I’ve been thinking about Don Henley and his solo career. Well done.
One of my favorite Don Henley songs. I totally agree. The spirit of the song comes through every time I play it on my guitar. You did this review total justice!! Mic drop dude!!
You're pretty invaluable just for bringing up all these performers and bands so we can go listen and love it all over again. Keeping track of all of them is a full time job. And you do great at it.
Young Man I could not agree with your thoughts and sentiments more. Don Henley and the Eagles are incredible Singers & Songwriters.It's been a Blessing on my soul and Heart. I also would play their records and listen with my father in the 70's, a cold beer in our hand and warm understanding smiles on our faces.My Dad has also crossed over, but I have these beautiful memories. Amen
Love the Madness shirt! One Step Beyond!!!! 🎷
Well done dude...very touching. Listening to Don Henley reminds me of my father as well. “The End of the Innocence” was a frequently played in my house and my Dad’s car. Sorry about your father. RIP.
Saw Don Henley as a teenager at Irvine Meadows in 84 or 85. Was a fantastic evening. Highlight for me was him playing drums and singing Witchy Woman. Did not expect to hear that song. His tour drumming was a lefty and he joked how difficult it was playing backwards drums.
I was lucky enough to see Leather and Lace performed live at the Forum with both Stevie and Don singing it.
Great that you took those opportunities, Shaman. I was in the US Navy in the 1970's and was fortunate enough to see (the) Eagles in San Diego on their "Hotel California" tour. I am a Spiritual Shaman of sorts myself, and I've discovered the secrets of the Universe. I wrote a book that reveals the greatest secrets, including The Meaning of Life. And if you give me a "click" you'll get a lot of info from my channel. (I don't receive comments notifications, but you'll find how to contact me if you want to.) Namaste!
Anytime I listen to Heart of the Matter, I have to listen to it more than once.
Beautiful.
Thank you, Don!
Thank you, Professor!
My regards to you & your family🙏
Don Henley’s the great lyricist.
I kind of forgot about Don Henley. Thank you for reminding me how truly awesome his music is. Please keep making these videos!
I had Boys of Summer in a loop when the notification for this video showed up 😮
Well done. Your earnesty and passion resonates and is disarming. I'm fortunate I can sing well enough to extra enjoy these Henley song's and others
My favorite Don Henley song was I Will Not Go Quietly. With Axl Rose as back up vocals... Kick @$$!
Don Henley is probably my favorite singer and lyricist of all time. All his songs are "story" songs that touch the heart and fire the imagination. His songs, voice and insightful lyrics are always there when I need them most. I never get tired of hearing them.
The end of innocence is one of those songs that penetrates you from the moment you start to listen to it. I loved that song in so many ways the first time I heard it and it's one of my all time favorite songs. The melody, the instruments, the voice, the lyrics. Everything in that songs is just... Don't know how to say it, but I'm sure you understand.
Recently I uploaded an 80's mix to Mixcloud and shared the link with my friends and family. This cousin who lives in Miami calls me saying that there's a lot of songs he haven't heard in ages and then he says, and I quote "Bro, when Boys of summer is introduced in the mix I got goosebumps". A great song that makes me remember my younger years.
I am not just a fan of music.. but a real, passionate music fan. This channel and the Professor really speak my language. Keep up the great work, I love every bit of content!
Bro trying to nail down his top 5 solo songs is about impossible...but congrats, you did better than anyone I’ve seen!! I’m so glad you picked Heart of the Matter as number one. This song has meant so much to me over the years.
He was my first concert I ever went to back when I was in 2nd grade back in 91.
I was 13 when i saw the Eagles at the Yale Bowl , and there began my love affair with don Henley's voice, he's one of the greatest songwriters of all time and i smile when one of my kids asks to borrow a Henley or an Eagles album, Talent is timeless and his music bridges generations, .. thanks Prof
Mr. Henley REALLY IS an ABSOLUETLY INCREDIBLE lyricist and THAT is what made HIS solo career out pace ALL of the other Eagles EXPONENTIALLY ! But every single one of the Eagles band members were MAGNIFICENT in their own right and could sing and write and play their own masterpieces..... Just one example of this is Randy Meisner and his song "Take it to the Limit". Audiences the world over came to the Eagle concerts hoping and dreaming --(if not PRAYING ! ! !) that they would get to hear Randy sing THAT amazing song , which NO ONE will EVER be able to replicate ! His INCREDiBLE high notes at the end of that song will NEVER be duplicated by ANYONE....and even tho' all of the song's lyrics are good, it is those untouchable "Aaaah"s at the end that we all LOVE and can't wait to hear HIM and ONLY HIM do.
The only regretable part this band's journey to the tip top peak of both rock and country music greatness is the inability of the two founding members (Don Henley and Glen Frey) to extend a hand of "FORGIVENESS" and REACCEPTANCE to THE BEST lead guitarist they have EVER had....Don Felder....!
HE is one more piece of this band that is REALLY....IRREPLACABLE ! ! ! Yes they have other people who can play what HE CREATED, but without Mr. Felder, THE MOST WELL KNOWN....across the ENTIRE WORLD...Eagles song, (Hotel California) would never have been written. It was HIS musical genius that gave birth to that legendary Rock and Roll ICON. And without HIM it would never have been, period! .....and Mr. Frey and Mr. Henley have the ARROGANCE and AUDACITY to throw away THAT BRILLIANT PART of "their" band...!?!
That travesty is....UN-BELIEVABLY stupid, as well as......sad.
I'm a huge fan of "The Last Worthless Evening". Fantastic ballad.
You are DEAD RIGHT about Heart of the Matter. I have shed so many tears listening to this song. I as a pastor myself agree that it is indeed modern day scripture.
Thank you so much Prof, I am on your wavelength about Don Henley. My 5'er:
5 - Drivin With Your Eyes Closed - A quirky little song with some great guitar work, love the arrangement.
4 - Sunset Grill - An existential song about everyday life and a cautionary tale that hanging out at the bar probably won't get you very far away from whatever you're trying to escape.
3 - New York Minute - Your thoughts on the song echo mine. All I can add is Pino Palladino's bass work is epic on it.
2 - A Month of Sundays - this song reminds of my late grandpa and all his friends who returned home from World War II and made their living on family farms, not unlike the first-person character of the song. The song is haunted by the spectre of family farms going away in the 1980's without Don ever calling direct mention of it in the lyrics. Moves me tears almost every time.
1 - Boys of Summer - my interpretation of this song was more like the video than anything political ... that guy in midlife who is rich and has it all but it means nothing because he's haunted by his young love that got away and his memories can't stop coming back.
Boys of Summer is pure pain. Every guy can relate to it. Amazing.
IMO, Talking To the Moon is one of his absolute best performances ever! And, lucky me, I live 15 miles from Don’s hometown and have met and seen him perform numerous times, both with the Eagles and as a solo performer!
Yeah one of my favourites too!
I owned The End of the Innocence on cassette back in the day, but left it behind as I steadily switched over to CD's. I had all but forgotten how "The Heart of the Matter" used to just tear me up back then. So I had to find it here on RUclips and give it another listen, and man, all these decades later nothing has changed. It still goes right for your soul.
Adam, I think you are brilliant! I don't know how you got to this point in your life but glad you did...thank you for sharing your stories and this wonderful music! Love and loved Don Henley's music...
One of the greatest influences not just on music!!! But in the hearts of anyone alive during that golden era!!!
Wow that was a masterful description of Henley and his masterful talent. Well done my friend.
You nailed it. Heart of the Matter may be one of the best songs ever written.
I know he was a feature but one of my favorite songs you have to be 0 love just ain't enough
Somehow you read my mind when you choose what you post. Can't wait for Glen Frey. Great song writing and musicians of all time. Tell done Professor
Best video yet. Amazing content. Surprised by boys of summer creation. Very cool
new york minute was 1 of my fave songs by don. very dramatic and haunting song with a great build 1000 thumbs up.
Adam, this might be your finest work. As for Don, one of the greatest and most important singer songwriters in rock history.
My favourite Don Henley song is Boys of Summer. Insane vocals, great tune with the arrangements and killer guitar work.
Henley is the perfect ballad singer. No one does it like him.
Professor, I agree completely. It seems impossible to choose 5 songs to identify Don Henley's brilliance; there needs to be room for A Month of Sundays. Still, The Heart of The Matter is my favorite too.