I think JD Souther deserves so much more credit than he gets. He was so important to the success of the eagles. I’m so glad the eagles documentary shined a light on him.
I find myself looking towards songwriters over singers. Usually I find myself liking a song and find the same names attached to the songs. Jim Steinman and Diane Warren come to mind but the list of my favorite song writers would take too long to type on a phone
Mojo Nixon wrote a comedic but scathing song about Don Henley that unfortunately has stuck in my head all these years. Now I hate that every time I hear Henley's name, that earworm comes to life in my head and I hear: "Don Henley must die! Put a sharp stick in his eye!" Of course, Don Henley will always be famous and gain new fans in the future, but Mojo? Mojo who?😄 Mojo no longer performs but he hosts a radio show on Sirius nowadays. He's gotta make a living somehow since his albums are not bringing him much income. In reality, I think Nixon admires Henley and digs his music. Especially after a concert Nixon performed in Austin Texas in 1992, when none other than Don Henley hopped on stage to join the chorus of “Don Henley must die, don’t let him get back together with Glenn Frey!” Years later Mojo Nixon recalled, “So I said, ‘Whaddya want? You wanna fight? You wanna debate?’ And he said, ‘I want to sing the song, especially the part about not getting together with Glenn Frey.'” He did, and the crowd went wild. “To quote my drummer, he must’ve had balls bigger than church bells to do that.” I already loved Don Henley, but that action boosted him up to "legend" in my opinion! I love artists who can laugh at themselves and maintain a great sense of humor!
This song was a life jacket around my destroyed, drowning heart when I went through my divorce. The message about forgiveness has resonated so many times since then. It really is a gift of a song. Thank you for the insights into it.
Agreed. Felt like the 3 songwriters were in the background watching what I thought was a great relationship, fall apart and how I struggled to make sense of the senselessness of it all. Very much something we can all relate to. Through it all, many years later we have reformed a friendship and an understanding of forgiveness. Adam, thank you so much for all you do. I’ve shared your page with anyone I know who is a “music junkie.”
Best song of Don Henley's entire catalog. A song for the ages whose message of lost love and hope never gets old. Even if, even if, you don't love me anymore.
This song followed me throughout my marriage to a wonderful, FORGIVING man who lost his very short battle with lung cancer on 12/11/2021. There were so many times when forgiveness was issued on both sides … I burst into tears while watching this episode of POR while listening to JD and Mike talk about giving and receiving forgiveness. It all came home to me in that moment… I have to forgive myself and forgive a few situations that happened in the last few years in order to be able to move on with my new life path as a just turned 58 yr old widow… THANK YOU ADAM!!! This video found me when I needed it to… ❤❤❤ Love and Light!!! 🙏🙏🙏
I was in theological seminary in Kentucky in 1989 when this came out. Was astonishing at the shimmering beauty of the guitars and the overlap between the lyric and the ministry topics I was studying -- and pastoral work I continue to do 34 years later.
Love your show, Professor. I grew up on Casey Kasem's American Top 40 show. There are two reasons I enjoy your show a little more: 1. The interviews. 2. Your personal touch. How the songs helped you get through some rough times or brought you closer to your dad. It's not just about the songs, but also about the difference they make in our lives. It's very relatable to all of us who tune in. Thanks again, Professor. Another great episode.
Bro I am honestly jealous of your gift man. Your ability to tap the life force of these songs & artist interviews is a true marvel. Then articulate the story in such a humble way without pretentiousness speaks to your own character while drawing listeners in to a safe place of reflection. Thank you for sharing your gift Adam.🙏🤓😎❤🔥
I find different meanings in the song as I age. When I was younger, it was about learning to let go so I could move on in a healthy way after being hurt. Now, in retirement, it's a reminder to forgive myself for not always doing right by others, or myself, so that I'm not focused on regret instead of appreciation.
I was still working as a radio DJ when this album/song came out. I remember the first time I heard this song. That moment was like a lightning bolt. So powerful. Feels too my core, and it's the same every time I hear it.
"You better put it all behind you, baby, cuz life goes on, you keep carrying that anger, it'll eat you up inside..." Those were the words that truly resonated with me... Absolutely one of my favorite songs, EVER. I think it speaks to a level of maturity we all need to strive for, and I love the storyline of the song. It's the understanding that, "well, hey, I'm not even sure what we were fighting about is important anymore, and now I don't care, I just wanna be friends again." I think it's also compelling in that it emphasizes the importance of living where you are with the people you say you love... that, chasing the "dream," is often an illusion and never gives the satisfaction it promises.
"The Heart Of The Matter" has connected with me on so many separate occasions, I truly believe my life would have turned out differently without it, and not for the better. Thank you Mike, J.D. and Don!
The End of the Innocence is my favorite solo album by any of the Eagles. Love it. The Heart of the Matter is a beautiful song. It hits too close to home. Reminds me of the worst breakup I ever went through. I came out the other side stronger and wiser and more prepared for a lasting relationship. Celebrating 25 years of marriage this week. Couldn't have done it without the hard lessons and much "forgiveness."
This is my favourite Don Henley song... hell, one of my favourite songs, PERIOD! So much wisdom and insight into life in one song. It talks about how we can lose so much of what matters due to the smallest and least important day-to-day things. And just because two people drift apart, it does not mean the love is gone.
This song came out soon after my fiance died in 1989. I was still going through all the stages of grief, except acceptance. At the time I was experiencing denial, anger, bargaining, and depression in "heavy rotation" (to borrow a phrase from radio and MTV). That first lyric, "I got the call today, I didn't wanna hear, but I knew that it would come..." hit me like a wrecking ball. I got that call on May 14th, 1989 at about 2:00 PM. It was Mother's Day and I was spending the day with my parents having a great time before that phone rang. That event is forever etched on my soul. This song haunted me and I think eventually helped me get to a place of forgiveness. He didn't leave me, he left the pain he could no longer bear. I hated myself because I wasn't able to help him even though I saw it coming. I was angry because we never got to have that wedding we planned, and my soulmate had suddenly left me and I didn't know how to live without him. On my worst days I thought about following him. I still get a lump in my throat and watery eyes when I hear it.
One of my favorite songs ever. I still cry listening to it. About forgiving even when love is not reciprocated. Lyrics are so powerful and are a reminder when you’re holding on to hurtful things to just let it go
Definitely top 5 songs of all time and arguably maybe the best. Took 40 years to write and about 4 minutes to sing. The biggest injustice of the American airwaves was the radio edit of this masterpiece.
I love Don Henley ‘s voice. Every time I hear this song, I remember the deep emotion’s tied to this masterpiece. Forgiveness is so important. It is so good for them and us.
🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉 JD Souther........ very underrated. Great great songwriter. The Heart of the Matter....... you don't love me anymore. Great tune. Thanks for this deep dive Professor. Have a great Hump Day!
Underrated ? He is in the Song Writers Hall of Fame. He is only underrated if you let him be. He is actually respected by those on the industry, including Jackson Brown.
I wore this song out when I was working through a terrible breakup/betrayal of a long relationship in the early 90's. Back then, my therapy included making a 'breakup' mixed tape. Side A was the rage and hurt. Side B was the acceptance and ultimately, forgiveness. This was the last song on the tape. Truly a phenomenal song.
This was a great video, Prof! I loved the interview with Mike Campbell. He’s such a cool, influential guy, yet so few people know the true extent of his contribution to classic rock.
This album as a whole is top shelf no doubt. The song on it's own is a total masterpiece that does exactly what art is supposed to do. Makes you think and feel and wonder and reflect. And if your fortunate enough, helps you grow.. Masters of lyrical composition, all three of these fellas for sure. It was quite kind of Mike Campbell to show his appreciation of this interview to you. Great work and thanks Professor. ✌️
The Heart of the Matter is an ageless classic. Been through a bad break up? This is required listening. I saw an hour-long interview with Mike Campbell on PBS. This guy is salt of the earth. I was very impressed with him, A whole new level of respect. Don Henley really blew me away after the Eagles breakup. Very talented man. Thanks, Professor, for another excellent class. ☮
The music is beautiful and the lyrics mean so much more every time you listen to it. When I hear this song it always makes me pause and contemplate the moment. When I heard it for the first time I played it over and over again until it was imprinted on my soul. It really is one of those great song that as soon as you hear that first riff of the guitar you know exactly what song it is❤
I love this song. Rings so true in many matters of the heart and life's lessons about relationships. Great lyrics, songwriting, and voices. Don Henley's and J.D. Souther's awesome style of singing. Nothing nowadays compares to yesterday's talented artists.
THIS song needs to be played by every station...every streaming that is out there. Should be the "national anthem" of the human race. When three amazing artists get together, magic occurs! Thanks POR for spreading the gospel of music.
I'm so happy that this song got a deeper dive. I remember you talked about it in another video a bit, but it really does deserve its own video. The message of this song needs to be heard by everyone. I'm also happy that you discussed the bridge more because I think that it's when Don really hits the nail on the head -- Life's tough, you're going to get hurt and people are going to let you down, but, ultimately you are the only one with the power to let go of the bitterness and anger that those experiences create. As you said, it truly will hold you hostage for as long as you will let it. A life is a LONG time to be carrying around that baggage.
So glad you highlighted this incredible song. I've been a fan of Don's since the 60s when I used to see him playing drums and singing in a band called Felicity that performed in Dallas clubs. I have all his solo albums, but End of the Innocence is what I consider the best LP of the 80s. It came out right after my divorce and I was having a very hard time forgiving my ex for walking out on me and our adolescent children. I remember sitting on my couch, taking in this masterpiece for the first time when Heart of the Matter came on. I'm not one to cry easily but that song broke me down. I literally sobbed because it was a big dose of truth I so needed to hear. Easily in my top 5 songs of all time and probably my favorite. Thanks for sharing the inside info Mike and JD were able to contribute. Well done.
My God I can’t believe how much this episode moved me… This song, as well as Boys of Summer are without a doubt two of the most important songs of my life, and Adam, you absolutely killed it in this interview… You’re an amazing dude, with one hell of an ear for greatness, and this episode was a blessing beyond belief.
A timeless musical composition by the underappreciated Mike Campbell plus the wisdom of two of the best American lyricists in JD Souther and Don Henley. A true classic song. Thanks for the video and the interviews, Adam.
This song is so meaningful. It’s one of those songs that, when it comes on, I stop whatever I’m doing or thinking about and just put all my focus on listening to it. And then I play it again. Thanks for the background! Also, Conviction of the Heart (and the Leap of Faith album) is one of my lifelong go-to songs, too. Was my favorite song at age 12 and is one I always return to when times are tough and I need comfort.
This is the best episode yet Professor. "Heart of the Matter" is a true masterpiece, thanks for highlighting it, and sharing how personal it is for you. "The flesh will get weak, and the ashes will scatter." - Henley
As a guy who lived through what I will always believe to be the best, the 60’s and 70’s I appreciate your work. Many thanks and I have to say of all your amazing interviews I have to say Benny Mardones certainly ranks as the best in my opinion. Thanks again! And Benny if you can hear me your certainly did leave your mark on the world
I just think it is insightful how the line in the chorus changes from, “If you don’t love me anymore.” to “If you don’t love me.”. It shows the progression of forgiveness and I think that is just one element that speaks to the genius of this song. Timeless.
I love how the @ProfessorofRock can take a song I thought I knew as a kid, and give me a new level of appreciation for it. It makes the music new again. Thanks!
Eagles absolutely are a staple of American rock, and especially of the 70s. Can't imagine a timeline without them indeed. It's always amazing to see the anecdotes put forth here.
@@ProfessorofRock Don Henley's solo career showed him to be the musical genius he is but I find this song to be a bit disingenuous on his part. How has Don Henley NOT forgiven Don Felder? If he truly believed in forgiveness, they would be friends once again.
@@randallsimmons391: Possibly because of Felder’s suit, his memoir, and the way, for a long time, that he took every opportunity to knock the Eagles. It’s an ugly period, and Henley responds in a very visceral manner to insults.
@@lisabellamy8424 Don Felder filed suit because Glen Frey and Don Henley violated their contract. DF was a full member and requested access to the finances. Both GF and DH refused. They also violated the contract on the Long Run where DF was supposed to sing lead on Those Shoes (IIRC) but GF went to dinner with DF while DH was in the studio recording the lead vocals, which was unknown to DF. The memoir was a sore spot only because DF wrote down all that the band had done, all of which DH and GF had admitted to in interviews. DF did not knock the Eagles, only GF and sometimes DH when they would not honor DF's part as full member.
When I was going through a bad divorce back in the late 90s I heard this song on the radio after dropping off my kids with their mother. Time has since healed much of the pain but it remains my mantra to this day. Thank you for featuring it.
Professor, thank you for opening up to your audience about your personal experiences and how music has helped you through some dark times. This song is GREAT self-therapy for all people who have been wronged in the past.
This song is timeless and remarkable. Forgiveness is the word least used in society. It is much easier to hate than forgive and forget. This song and Art Garfunkel’s “All I Know” are my goto songs for clarity. Thanks Professor for sharing these interviews and your personal story. I also gifted my family with these 2 songs. If that’s all they remember and share about me. I will be thrilled.
Heart of the Matter is such a great song😊 It honestly helped me get over a deep hurt that I had suffered. I used the lyrics to remind myself to forgive even when I didn't feel it. Forgiveness is a choice, not necessarily a feeling. Once you shed that baggage, you can truly move on.❤
A great example of the therapeutic value of music. There's something about a song giving a hopeful, encouraging message that can be even more powerful than hearing it from someone you know.
This album was released my junior year in high school, and I wore out that CD. The End of the Innocence was my favorite track then, but The Heart of the Matter means more to me now. Thanks, Adam!
New Kid in Town is one of 2 songs that changed my life. I remember lying on the couch at 11 years old while my mom fixed breakfast. The radio was on, and this played every morning. NKiT and The Things We Do for Love were the first 45s I ever bought with my own money.
@@ProfessorofRock The whole thing is brilliant and is just steeped in reflection. Expertly written and performed. Bruce Hornsby did a hell of a job as well.
Great perspective on Show Biz........"they are just pretending....making shit up!" I appreciate that he knows, and shares truth. Absolutely love and have used this song, to help prop up, and heal my own beaten up heart. Thank YOU Adam, for these great interviews and back-stories! This "musical accident" is a absolute blessing! ❤
Amazing song with an important message. I've struggled with forgiveness lately too, but I know its eating me up inside. Thanks for this one Professor... something I needed to hear.
I consider this the greatest song of all time. Lyrically, sonically and emotionally. Had 10th row seats in Toronto for End of The Innocence tour. Incredible concert.
Loved this segment! The End of the Innocence is a masterpiece album from start to finish. Every track is superbly written and recorded, but the Heart of The Matter lyric truly shines. Henly's vocal delivery fits it like a glove. Can you ever tire of listening to this song? Hope you cover some of the other great songs on this epic album, Adam. Thanks for sharing the personal significance of this song with us, too.
The first time I heard this song my knees buckled and I started sobbing. No joke. My lost love was my daughter. She was stillborn on her due date. This song helped me heal from her loss. I realized when I heard it that I was mad at her for leaving me and that I had been carrying all the anger around for years! She wasn't supposed to die. Nobody in my entire life had died up until that point and not only was she my first child, she was my first death. Thank you to everyone involved in the writing and production of this cathartic beauty. I love you for it. ❤❤❤ And Adam, my husband and I love you. Three chords...❤️
I was just playing this song this morning, in my own ham handed way:). Great song in every way. Not only the brilliance of Don Henley as a songwriter, but the way he sings the song is like the brush strokes of a great artist.
*I AGREE that this song should be REQUIRED LISTENING 👂 for EVERY human being!! When we understand FORGIVENESS our lives become a MUCH better and loving place to be!!! Imho*
Heartache is such a universal feeling. What a gift to have the talent to turn their heartache into something beautiful that everyone can relate to. I had to add this to my favorite songs list to remind myself to let go.
Thanks for another great video. I love Don Henley’s work and this is his finest masterpiece among many. I disagree with him on many things but he is a special person. I appreciate your deep dive into this outstanding work of art.
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Made a tape of it from a LP and played it all the time. It is good at first listen and then gets better with ever further listen :)
"The heart of the Matter" is truly a great song about forgiveness. Although my lesson about forgiveness came before this song, I learned a huge lesson about holding on to bad things happening and who caused them. That lesson was; When you hold onto hurt and offence, the only person it effects is you, the one who did you wrong doesn't care or suffer. By letting those things go it eventually comes back to the one who did the wrong, many times over. Here Don Henley expressed it all quite well. ;-)
Very sorry to hear of your daughter's nightmare and sad to hear of your subsequent depression. Every parent's worst fear is something unbelievable happening to your own kid. I was sitting on a pontoon boat in Table Rock Lake near Branson, Missouri when I first heard it, and didn't stop listening to it for the whole weekend. Don Henley is a genius but he forgets who brought him here and that was the fans.
Don Henley certainly did not forget how he got here. Years ago he already showed how he can give back to the world. He started tbe Walden Foundation and he is very much involve in the environment In a way he is THANKFUL
This one of the songs with the greatest, most powerful and heart touching lyrics... up there with "The Sound of Silence" IMO. Definitely one of my favorites.
I really ❤ this song! It is such an important message, Forgiveness. I have the End Of the Innocence album and The Heart of the Matter 45 record. What a surprise when I played it. It's an acoustic version. In the beginning, Don explains the meaning of the song, and he says I made this 45 different from the album for the fans.
@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 It might be hard to find. Every time someone tries to upload a live performance on of Heart Of The Matter, it gets removed due to copyright.
Thank you for such a thoughtful and thorough interview that gives this record the respect and honor it deserves. I, too, go years without hearing it and then it comes up when I need to hear its message of forgiveness. Love the opening cords. Thank you for sharing this and your story. Praying for you and your child.
I grew up with this song and have always enjoyed hearing it when it comes on the radio, even though it always would drive me crazy when radio stations cut part of it out (I’m learning to live without you…) but I have to confess that I never truly appreciated the meaning behind the lyrics until hearing the Professor explain it in this episode, even though I’ve gone through similar situations myself. I can listen to the song with a new set of ears now.
Thank you for this excellent episode, Professor, and for sharing your own personal experience with this song. The Heart of the Matter resonates for me now in ways it couldn't when I was a kid in my 20s. I never really concentrated on the lyrics until now. Marriage, divorce, death, betrayal, regret, crippling loss...all experiences that can benefit from the wisdom in this song.
I get emotional every time I hear this song. Totally agree that it is applicable to every life. I think that Don Henley is one of the best singer/songwriters that ever was and I'm proud to claim him as a Texas boy. Having written and recorded 5 albums myself, I can only imagine having an artist of that caliber to sing my stuff, but, of course, that never happened, and probably never will. Lots of writers out there and music with this level of excellence is proof of what it takes to make it.
Omg sometimes it takes a few chefs to make the perfect meal. In this case 3 amazing artist/song writers. I put this song on to bring me back to being a human. Love, love, love this song.
This may be long... what a great song and one honestly I haven't thought of in a long time. Funny how things work out, certain times in life you start to contemplate the whole thing.... and sometimes it takes something to provoke that. Yesterday a childhood hero of mine came to the end of his time on earth, Brooks Robinson. I lived baseball when I was a kid, always dreaming to be a big league ballplayer. He is and will always be my favorite player but better yet he was a good man. I met him once right after my son was born and he was at the local mall signing autographs, he and two other players. Brooks was charging half of what the others were to sign things, and every thing went to charity. Well, I got up to the head of the line and he sees my son (about 9 months old at the time and still on oxygen) Brooks asked if he could take a picture with him (a polaroid at that time) I still have it. He talked with me for a while and signed three baseballs, one for me, one for my son and one for my pop. Today you cover this song and with that experience from yesterday it has triggered that contemplation I spoke of earlier..... thanks Adam. Sometimes your videos are a gift. It was today.
I interpreted this song once as a parent and child having a fight, the child moves out of the family home, and cuts contact with the parent. The parent hears through the grapevine that the child is doing fine. The parent then starts singing this song. I agree it's probably one of the best songs ever!! You can hear the emotions in Don's voice too!!
Like you, this is one of my favorite songs ever. I never tire of hearing it though it always makes me cry. And the album is definitive Henley. He is one of the greatest song writers of our generation and in teaming up with Mike and JD, they created a masterpiece. Don's unique voice adds so much feeling to the song that it can't help but touch your heart.
As a hard rock fan, this album turned my music listening all kinds of directions. Henley, Campbell and Souther are royalty and some of the best. Tom Petty is another. I saw Don Henley 3 times in this tour. In Ohio, in Arizona and Texas. My work had me in those places. Truly one of the greats
Professor, really appreciate your personal story of how this great song resonated with you, and left you with a meaningful message/helpful path forward in life. Thank you for all you do for your music loving fans!
Thank you Professor for reminding me of this song. My wife of 20 years left me 9 months ago without a reason and I am still trying to come to grips with it. I will take your dad's advice about this song too. Thanks again!
I was with my mother the first time she heard that song, and as she realized how much it applied to her marriage, she started crying I guess I needed to revisit that but Christ life is cruel sometimes
Thank you for doing this video, Professor. I had no idea the song resonates as strongly with you and many others as it does with me, and it feels good to share that bond of recognizing great music and lyrics.
This is easily my favorite Don Henley album. Between the opening track with Bruce Hornsby (still my favorite post-eagles track from anyone) and Last worthless evening and heart of the matter are all songs that kit kinda different when you get older.
Poll: What artist had the best SOLO career after starting off with an iconic band?
Paul McCartney
Stevie Nicks
George Harrison. Or maybe Peter Gabriel. Mustn't forget the one and only Paul Simon!
Phil Collins
Waylon Jennings
Kenny Rogers
Steve Winwood
I'll nominate both Diana Ross and Lionel Ritchie (sorry about the "Endless Love" connection).
Tina Turner
I think JD Souther deserves so much more credit than he gets. He was so important to the success of the eagles. I’m so glad the eagles documentary shined a light on him.
He’s a great guy!
Yep. Plus he’s a legend cuz he used to live with Linda Ronstadt .
I find myself looking towards songwriters over singers. Usually I find myself liking a song and find the same names attached to the songs. Jim Steinman and Diane Warren come to mind but the list of my favorite song writers would take too long to type on a phone
I like Souther's writing but his voice is just incredible
It's been hard reconciling how much of an asshole Don Henley has been most of his career, and yet I have a lot of love for his music
Same!
Well said.
He’s one of the artists that it’s really hard to separate the two unfortunately.
He's a genius musically.
Mojo Nixon wrote a comedic but scathing song about Don Henley that unfortunately has stuck in my head all these years. Now I hate that every time I hear Henley's name, that earworm comes to life in my head and I hear:
"Don Henley must die!
Put a sharp stick in his eye!"
Of course, Don Henley will always be famous and gain new fans in the future, but Mojo? Mojo who?😄
Mojo no longer performs but he hosts a radio show on Sirius nowadays. He's gotta make a living somehow since his albums are not bringing him much income.
In reality, I think Nixon admires Henley and digs his music. Especially after a concert Nixon performed in Austin Texas in 1992, when none other than Don Henley hopped on stage to join the chorus of “Don Henley must die, don’t let him get back together with Glenn Frey!”
Years later Mojo Nixon recalled, “So I said, ‘Whaddya want? You wanna fight? You wanna debate?’ And he said, ‘I want to sing the song, especially the part about not getting together with Glenn Frey.'” He did, and the crowd went wild. “To quote my drummer, he must’ve had balls bigger than church bells to do that.”
I already loved Don Henley, but that action boosted him up to "legend" in my opinion!
I love artists who can laugh at themselves and maintain a great sense of humor!
This song was a life jacket around my destroyed, drowning heart when I went through my divorce. The message about forgiveness has resonated so many times since then. It really is a gift of a song. Thank you for the insights into it.
Wow! Thanks for sharing!
I’m glad you healed.
Same here. It took on new meaning for me during my divorce. India Arie actually did a very nice cover of it too.
Agreed. Felt like the 3 songwriters were in the background watching what I thought was a great relationship, fall apart and how I struggled to make sense of the senselessness of it all. Very much something we can all relate to. Through it all, many years later we have reformed a friendship and an understanding of forgiveness.
Adam, thank you so much for all you do. I’ve shared your page with anyone I know who is a “music junkie.”
Same with me!
Best song of Don Henley's entire catalog. A song for the ages whose message of lost love and hope never gets old. Even if, even if, you don't love me anymore.
That whole album is timeless
And JD Souther is right there again! Check his, When you're only lonely!
@@Terk131It's like a greatest hits album.
Then there's New York Minute. Killer song.
"How can love survive in such a graceless age?"
What a line!
This song followed me throughout my marriage to a wonderful, FORGIVING man who lost his very short battle with lung cancer on 12/11/2021. There were so many times when forgiveness was issued on both sides … I burst into tears while watching this episode of POR while listening to JD and Mike talk about giving and receiving forgiveness. It all came home to me in that moment… I have to forgive myself and forgive a few situations that happened in the last few years in order to be able to move on with my new life path as a just turned 58 yr old widow… THANK YOU ADAM!!! This video found me when I needed it to… ❤❤❤ Love and Light!!! 🙏🙏🙏
Love and Light ❤
I was in theological seminary in Kentucky in 1989 when this came out. Was astonishing at the shimmering beauty of the guitars and the overlap between the lyric and the ministry topics I was studying -- and pastoral work I continue to do 34 years later.
Mike Campbell lighting up during the interview is epic. 😂 He's a totally underrated guitarist.
no I don't think he's underrated
I think he's more underrated as a songwriter.
@@andyturpen finally somebody said it
Mike Campbell writes the tracks to "The Boys Of Summer" AND this? Wow. Grateful for his craft and Henley's vocals.
Mike is one of the best sideman any great song writer needs. Him and Tom Petty wrote some outstanding songs as well. Same as him and other musicians.
He's absolutely brilliant.
Just the Professor casually interviewing JD Souther and Mike Campbell. This channel is always gold.
Love your show, Professor. I grew up on Casey Kasem's American Top 40 show. There are two reasons I enjoy your show a little more: 1. The interviews. 2. Your personal touch. How the songs helped you get through some rough times or brought you closer to your dad. It's not just about the songs, but also about the difference they make in our lives. It's very relatable to all of us who tune in. Thanks again, Professor. Another great episode.
I think Kasem's top 40 was networked around the English-speaking world. We got it here in Australia
We had it here in Germany, too. I used to listen a lot to the AFN (American forces network).
Me too...AFN. Rhein Main AFB
Bro I am honestly jealous of your gift man. Your ability to tap the life force of these songs & artist interviews is a true marvel. Then articulate the story in such a humble way without pretentiousness speaks to your own character while drawing listeners in to a safe place of reflection. Thank you for sharing your gift Adam.🙏🤓😎❤🔥
"A principle to live your life by"... Couldn't have been said any better, Professor. Your father was spot on...
Forgiveness is essential!
I find different meanings in the song as I age. When I was younger, it was about learning to let go so I could move on in a healthy way after being hurt. Now, in retirement, it's a reminder to forgive myself for not always doing right by others, or myself, so that I'm not focused on regret instead of appreciation.
I was still working as a radio DJ when this album/song came out. I remember the first time I heard this song. That moment was like a lightning bolt. So powerful. Feels too my core, and it's the same every time I hear it.
"You better put it all behind you, baby, cuz life goes on, you keep carrying that anger, it'll eat you up inside..." Those were the words that truly resonated with me... Absolutely one of my favorite songs, EVER. I think it speaks to a level of maturity we all need to strive for, and I love the storyline of the song. It's the understanding that, "well, hey, I'm not even sure what we were fighting about is important anymore, and now I don't care, I just wanna be friends again." I think it's also compelling in that it emphasizes the importance of living where you are with the people you say you love... that, chasing the "dream," is often an illusion and never gives the satisfaction it promises.
The importance of living in the moment.
"The Heart Of The Matter" has connected with me on so many separate occasions, I truly believe my life would have turned out differently without it, and not for the better. Thank you Mike, J.D. and Don!
The End of the Innocence is my favorite solo album by any of the Eagles. Love it. The Heart of the Matter is a beautiful song. It hits too close to home. Reminds me of the worst breakup I ever went through. I came out the other side stronger and wiser and more prepared for a lasting relationship. Celebrating 25 years of marriage this week. Couldn't have done it without the hard lessons and much "forgiveness."
This is my favourite Don Henley song... hell, one of my favourite songs, PERIOD! So much wisdom and insight into life in one song. It talks about how we can lose so much of what matters due to the smallest and least important day-to-day things. And just because two people drift apart, it does not mean the love is gone.
That song touched me so deeply that for years I didn't play it because I couldn't get through it all the way without becoming emotional.
I was the same with Purple Rain
Same! Thanks for sharing. Such a truthful song!
I still can’t. Doesn’t matter where I am or what I’m doing, that song will clobber me.
This song came out soon after my fiance died in 1989. I was still going through all the stages of grief, except acceptance. At the time I was experiencing denial, anger, bargaining, and depression in "heavy rotation" (to borrow a phrase from radio and MTV).
That first lyric, "I got the call today, I didn't wanna hear, but I knew that it would come..." hit me like a wrecking ball. I got that call on May 14th, 1989 at about 2:00 PM. It was Mother's Day and I was spending the day with my parents having a great time before that phone rang. That event is forever etched on my soul.
This song haunted me and I think eventually helped me get to a place of forgiveness. He didn't leave me, he left the pain he could no longer bear. I hated myself because I wasn't able to help him even though I saw it coming.
I was angry because we never got to have that wedding we planned, and my soulmate had suddenly left me and I didn't know how to live without him. On my worst days I thought about following him.
I still get a lump in my throat and watery eyes when I hear it.
@@LazyIRanch 😪 So sorry. Hugs.
One of my favorite songs ever. I still cry listening to it. About forgiving even when love is not reciprocated. Lyrics are so powerful and are a reminder when you’re holding on to hurtful things to just let it go
Definitely top 5 songs of all time and arguably maybe the best. Took 40 years to write and about 4 minutes to sing. The biggest injustice of the American airwaves was the radio edit of this masterpiece.
“Parting of the Red Sea” . . . That is one of the most awesome description of what one wants their guitar to sound like!🤘. Campbell rules!!
That's my favorite part of the story! What do you think of this song?
@@ProfessorofRockI love it nowadays, I had to grow up & into it like Don said!
A Gretsch was the perfect choice, too!
I love it!
Mike Campbell has his hand in so many great songs with such a variety of artists. Genius
I love Don Henley ‘s voice. Every time I hear this song, I remember the deep emotion’s tied to this masterpiece. Forgiveness is so important. It is so good for them and us.
Don Henley and Karen Carpenter, my favorite vocalists ever.
🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉
JD Souther........ very underrated. Great great songwriter.
The Heart of the Matter....... you don't love me anymore. Great tune.
Thanks for this deep dive Professor. Have a great Hump Day!
Underrated ? He is in the Song Writers Hall of Fame. He is only underrated if you let him be. He is actually respected by those on the industry, including Jackson Brown.
I agree Roger.
This song spoke to my soul many years ago and still does. Definately a favorite. Thank you all.
I wore this song out when I was working through a terrible breakup/betrayal of a long relationship in the early 90's. Back then, my therapy included making a 'breakup' mixed tape. Side A was the rage and hurt. Side B was the acceptance and ultimately, forgiveness. This was the last song on the tape. Truly a phenomenal song.
This was a great video, Prof! I loved the interview with Mike Campbell. He’s such a cool, influential guy, yet so few people know the true extent of his contribution to classic rock.
He's a legend! He's done so much. What other songs by him should we cover?
He played for Tom Petty and made so many of his songs classics.
3 very prolific song writers there and Don sings the hell out of it. Timeless song for sure.
This album as a whole is top shelf no doubt. The song on it's own is a total masterpiece that does exactly what art is supposed to do. Makes you think and feel and wonder and reflect. And if your fortunate enough, helps you grow.. Masters of lyrical composition, all three of these fellas for sure. It was quite kind of Mike Campbell to show his appreciation of this interview to you. Great work and thanks Professor. ✌️
The Heart of the Matter is an ageless classic. Been through a bad break up? This is required listening. I saw an hour-long interview with Mike Campbell on PBS. This guy is salt of the earth. I was very impressed with him, A whole new level of respect. Don Henley really blew me away after the Eagles breakup. Very talented man. Thanks, Professor, for another excellent class. ☮
The music is beautiful and the lyrics mean so much more every time you listen to it.
When I hear this song it always makes me pause and contemplate the moment.
When I heard it for the first time I played it over and over again until it was imprinted on my soul.
It really is one of those great song that as soon as you hear that first riff of the guitar you know exactly what song it is❤
I love this song. Rings so true in many matters of the heart and life's lessons about relationships. Great lyrics, songwriting, and voices. Don Henley's and J.D. Souther's awesome style of singing. Nothing nowadays compares to yesterday's talented artists.
THIS song needs to be played by every station...every streaming that is out there. Should be the "national anthem" of the human race. When three amazing artists get together, magic occurs! Thanks POR for spreading the gospel of music.
Definitely a song that reminds us we’re only human.
This song changed my life..my attitude...gave me strength...insight and the will to carry on...one of the greatest ever written!
I'm so happy that this song got a deeper dive. I remember you talked about it in another video a bit, but it really does deserve its own video. The message of this song needs to be heard by everyone. I'm also happy that you discussed the bridge more because I think that it's when Don really hits the nail on the head -- Life's tough, you're going to get hurt and people are going to let you down, but, ultimately you are the only one with the power to let go of the bitterness and anger that those experiences create. As you said, it truly will hold you hostage for as long as you will let it. A life is a LONG time to be carrying around that baggage.
Agreed. I hope don felder listened to the song
So glad you highlighted this incredible song. I've been a fan of Don's since the 60s when I used to see him playing drums and singing in a band called Felicity that performed in Dallas clubs. I have all his solo albums, but End of the Innocence is what I consider the best LP of the 80s. It came out right after my divorce and I was having a very hard time forgiving my ex for walking out on me and our adolescent children. I remember sitting on my couch, taking in this masterpiece for the first time when Heart of the Matter came on. I'm not one to cry easily but that song broke me down. I literally sobbed because it was a big dose of truth I so needed to hear. Easily in my top 5 songs of all time and probably my favorite. Thanks for sharing the inside info Mike and JD were able to contribute. Well done.
My God I can’t believe how much this episode moved me… This song, as well as Boys of Summer are without a doubt two of the most important songs of my life, and Adam, you absolutely killed it in this interview… You’re an amazing dude, with one hell of an ear for greatness, and this episode was a blessing beyond belief.
A timeless musical composition by the underappreciated Mike Campbell plus the wisdom of two of the best American lyricists in JD Souther and Don Henley. A true classic song. Thanks for the video and the interviews, Adam.
This song is so meaningful. It’s one of those songs that, when it comes on, I stop whatever I’m doing or thinking about and just put all my focus on listening to it. And then I play it again. Thanks for the background! Also, Conviction of the Heart (and the Leap of Faith album) is one of my lifelong go-to songs, too. Was my favorite song at age 12 and is one I always return to when times are tough and I need comfort.
This is the best episode yet Professor. "Heart of the Matter" is a true masterpiece, thanks for highlighting it, and sharing how personal it is for you.
"The flesh will get weak, and the ashes will scatter." - Henley
As a guy who lived through what I will always believe to be the best, the 60’s and 70’s I appreciate your work. Many thanks and I have to say of all your amazing interviews I have to say Benny Mardones certainly ranks as the best in my opinion. Thanks again! And Benny if you can hear me your certainly did leave your mark on the world
I just think it is insightful how the line in the chorus changes from, “If you don’t love me anymore.” to “If you don’t love me.”. It shows the progression of forgiveness and I think that is just one element that speaks to the genius of this song.
Timeless.
The poignancy of 'Boys of summer' always gets me, more than any other of his songs 😊
I love how the @ProfessorofRock can take a song I thought I knew as a kid, and give me a new level of appreciation for it. It makes the music new again.
Thanks!
Eagles absolutely are a staple of American rock, and especially of the 70s. Can't imagine a timeline without them indeed. It's always amazing to see the anecdotes put forth here.
They truly are. I love Henley's solos career too. What about you?
@@ProfessorofRock Don Henley's solo career showed him to be the musical genius he is but I find this song to be a bit disingenuous on his part. How has Don Henley NOT forgiven Don Felder? If he truly believed in forgiveness, they would be friends once again.
It’s like they’ve always been with us!
@@randallsimmons391: Possibly because of Felder’s suit, his memoir, and the way, for a long time, that he took every opportunity to knock the Eagles. It’s an ugly period, and Henley responds in a very visceral manner to insults.
@@lisabellamy8424 Don Felder filed suit because Glen Frey and Don Henley violated their contract. DF was a full member and requested access to the finances. Both GF and DH refused. They also violated the contract on the Long Run where DF was supposed to sing lead on Those Shoes (IIRC) but GF went to dinner with DF while DH was in the studio recording the lead vocals, which was unknown to DF.
The memoir was a sore spot only because DF wrote down all that the band had done, all of which DH and GF had admitted to in interviews.
DF did not knock the Eagles, only GF and sometimes DH when they would not honor DF's part as full member.
A relatable song about forgiving the people that let you've down over the years especially when you've given all to them.
If only Don Henley could somehow forgive Don Felder.
When I was going through a bad divorce back in the late 90s I heard this song on the radio after dropping off my kids with their mother. Time has since healed much of the pain but it remains my mantra to this day. Thank you for featuring it.
Professor, thank you for opening up to your audience about your personal experiences and how music has helped you through some dark times. This song is GREAT self-therapy for all people who have been wronged in the past.
Professor of Rock - Our classic rock music therapist for life.
This song is timeless and remarkable. Forgiveness is the word least used in society. It is much easier to hate than forgive and forget. This song and Art Garfunkel’s “All I Know” are my goto songs for clarity. Thanks Professor for sharing these interviews and your personal story. I also gifted my family with these 2 songs. If that’s all they remember and share about me. I will be thrilled.
I've always loved All I Know written by the great Jimmy Webb.
Heart of the Matter is such a great song😊 It honestly helped me get over a deep hurt that I had suffered. I used the lyrics to remind myself to forgive even when I didn't feel it. Forgiveness is a choice, not necessarily a feeling. Once you shed that baggage, you can truly move on.❤
Thank you for sharing. Hope you've doing better Linda!
Definitely. This song is like therapy for the soul.
Don Henley has lost his way & is now a You Tube ruiner! He lives for profits only! What a 🤡
😂😢🤠
That's quite an observation of your own--
Forgiveness is a choice, not necessarily a feeling (!)
Once you've forgiven someone/ something, you realize that you had no idea how much it was weighing you down.
What a great guy Mike Campbell is. Your videos have made me like him all the more. Thanks!
A great example of the therapeutic value of music. There's something about a song giving a hopeful, encouraging message that can be even more powerful than hearing it from someone you know.
Thanks!
Music truly heals.
This album was released my junior year in high school, and I wore out that CD. The End of the Innocence was my favorite track then, but The Heart of the Matter means more to me now. Thanks, Adam!
This one kept me sane...While I walked through one of biggest valleys of my existence...
New Kid in Town is one of 2 songs that changed my life. I remember lying on the couch at 11 years old while my mom fixed breakfast. The radio was on, and this played every morning. NKiT and The Things We Do for Love were the first 45s I ever bought with my own money.
The same man wrote "She spends her time at another man's side, I spend my time with my pride". That voice combined with lyrics which are so relatable.
That second verse in this tune is sublime. Perfect! Rings true as much today as it did at that time.
Couldn't agree more! What do you think about the album overall?
@@ProfessorofRock The whole thing is brilliant and is just steeped in reflection. Expertly written and performed. Bruce Hornsby did a hell of a job as well.
Definitely the best lyric in the song.
I've heard this song hundreds of times and never really noticed the lyrics. I feel I learned something today.
Heart warming to hear your personal connection two this song, Adam. ❤ Bless you. You are a treasure.
Definitely
Great perspective on Show Biz........"they are just pretending....making shit up!"
I appreciate that he knows, and shares truth.
Absolutely love and have used this song, to help prop up, and heal my own beaten up heart.
Thank YOU Adam, for these great interviews and
back-stories!
This "musical accident" is a absolute blessing! ❤
Amazing song with an important message. I've struggled with forgiveness lately too, but I know its eating me up inside. Thanks for this one Professor... something I needed to hear.
I consider this the greatest song of all time. Lyrically, sonically and emotionally.
Had 10th row seats in Toronto for End of The Innocence tour. Incredible concert.
Loved this segment! The End of the Innocence is a masterpiece album from start to finish. Every track is superbly written and recorded, but the Heart of The Matter lyric truly shines. Henly's vocal delivery fits it like a glove. Can you ever tire of listening to this song? Hope you cover some of the other great songs on this epic album, Adam. Thanks for sharing the personal significance of this song with us, too.
I plan to! Maybe I can get a sit down with Don! Fingers crossed. Your kids should be getting something in the mail soon..
@@ProfessorofRock Don would be an awesome interview. Thx Adam!
It’s a true masterpiece.
The first time I heard this song my knees buckled and I started sobbing. No joke. My lost love was my daughter. She was stillborn on her due date. This song helped me heal from her loss. I realized when I heard it that I was mad at her for leaving me and that I had been carrying all the anger around for years! She wasn't supposed to die. Nobody in my entire life had died up until that point and not only was she my first child, she was my first death. Thank you to everyone involved in the writing and production of this cathartic beauty. I love you for it. ❤❤❤ And Adam, my husband and I love you. Three chords...❤️
I was just playing this song this morning, in my own ham handed way:). Great song in every way. Not only the brilliance of Don Henley as a songwriter, but the way he sings the song is like the brush strokes of a great artist.
It's so true. How long have you been playing?
His voice fit it like a glove.
About 40 years :).@@ProfessorofRock
*I AGREE that this song should be REQUIRED LISTENING 👂 for EVERY human being!! When we understand FORGIVENESS our lives become a MUCH better and loving place to be!!! Imho*
We seldom want to get down to “the heart of the matter “, but this song demands it!
Heartache is such a universal feeling. What a gift to have the talent to turn their heartache into something beautiful that everyone can relate to. I had to add this to my favorite songs list to remind myself to let go.
Thanks for another great video. I love Don Henley’s work and this is his finest masterpiece among many. I disagree with him on many things but he is a special person. I appreciate your deep dive into this outstanding work of art.
I remember that album came at a changing point in my life. Used to play in the car all the time. The songs were a common earworm. Just a great album
It really is a treasure.
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Made a tape of it from a LP and played it all the time. It is good at first listen and then gets better with ever further listen :)
@@thetitleisours1 Awesome! I should listen to it multiple times then.
"The heart of the Matter" is truly a great song about forgiveness.
Although my lesson about forgiveness came before this song, I learned a huge lesson about holding on to bad things happening and who caused them. That lesson was; When you hold onto hurt and offence, the only person it effects is you, the one who did you wrong doesn't care or suffer. By letting those things go it eventually comes back to the one who did the wrong, many times over.
Here Don Henley expressed it all quite well. ;-)
Adam, sir, you are a treasure and so are the people sharing stories in your comments section. So many times over, thank you.
Very sorry to hear of your daughter's nightmare and sad to hear of your subsequent depression. Every parent's worst fear is something unbelievable happening to your own kid.
I was sitting on a pontoon boat in Table Rock Lake near Branson, Missouri when I first heard it, and didn't stop listening to it for the whole weekend. Don Henley is a genius but he forgets who brought him here and that was the fans.
Don Henley certainly did not forget how he got here. Years ago he already showed how he can give back to the world. He started tbe Walden Foundation and he is very much involve in the environment
In a way he is THANKFUL
This one of the songs with the greatest, most powerful and heart touching lyrics... up there with "The Sound of Silence" IMO. Definitely one of my favorites.
It’s a classic for sure!
I really ❤ this song! It is such an important message, Forgiveness. I have the End Of the Innocence album and The Heart of the Matter 45 record. What a surprise when I played it. It's an acoustic version. In the beginning, Don explains the meaning of the song, and he says I made this 45 different from the album for the fans.
THanks for sharing Catherine! ONeof my favorite songs ever.
Forgiveness is a very important skill to have. I am going to check out the acoustic version.
@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 It might be hard to find. Every time someone tries to upload a live performance on of Heart Of The Matter, it gets removed due to copyright.
Thank you for such a thoughtful and thorough interview that gives this record the respect and honor it deserves. I, too, go years without hearing it and then it comes up when I need to hear its message of forgiveness. Love the opening cords. Thank you for sharing this and your story. Praying for you and your child.
I grew up with this song and have always enjoyed hearing it when it comes on the radio, even though it always would drive me crazy when radio stations cut part of it out (I’m learning to live without you…) but I have to confess that I never truly appreciated the meaning behind the lyrics until hearing the Professor explain it in this episode, even though I’ve gone through similar situations myself. I can listen to the song with a new set of ears now.
Heart of the Matter was so needed in my life. You feel it in your soul.. practice it in your life..
Thank you for this excellent episode, Professor, and for sharing your own personal experience with this song. The Heart of the Matter resonates for me now in ways it couldn't when I was a kid in my 20s. I never really concentrated on the lyrics until now. Marriage, divorce, death, betrayal, regret, crippling loss...all experiences that can benefit from the wisdom in this song.
I get emotional every time I hear this song. Totally agree that it is applicable to every life. I think that Don Henley is one of the best singer/songwriters that ever was and I'm proud to claim him as a Texas boy. Having written and recorded 5 albums myself, I can only imagine having an artist of that caliber to sing my stuff, but, of course, that never happened, and probably never will. Lots of writers out there and music with this level of excellence is proof of what it takes to make it.
Love interviews like this and learning the backstory and creative process. I will listen to "Heart of the Matter" with fresh ears.
Aren't they great?
Me too.
Omg sometimes it takes a few chefs to make the perfect meal. In this case 3 amazing artist/song writers. I put this song on to bring me back to being a human. Love, love, love this song.
This may be long... what a great song and one honestly I haven't thought of in a long time. Funny how things work out, certain times in life you start to contemplate the whole thing.... and sometimes it takes something to provoke that. Yesterday a childhood hero of mine came to the end of his time on earth, Brooks Robinson. I lived baseball when I was a kid, always dreaming to be a big league ballplayer. He is and will always be my favorite player but better yet he was a good man. I met him once right after my son was born and he was at the local mall signing autographs, he and two other players. Brooks was charging half of what the others were to sign things, and every thing went to charity. Well, I got up to the head of the line and he sees my son (about 9 months old at the time and still on oxygen) Brooks asked if he could take a picture with him (a polaroid at that time) I still have it. He talked with me for a while and signed three baseballs, one for me, one for my son and one for my pop. Today you cover this song and with that experience from yesterday it has triggered that contemplation I spoke of earlier..... thanks Adam. Sometimes your videos are a gift. It was today.
I saw that last night... So sad. All of our childhood idols are passing away!... Thanks for sharing!
The passing of Brooks Robinson is so devastating! R.I.P. Mr. Robinson. 😢
Very cool Professor! Interesting interviews, so insightful. You are right, can’t understand until you live a little. 🤘🔥
I interpreted this song once as a parent and child having a fight, the child moves out of the family home, and cuts contact with the parent. The parent hears through the grapevine that the child is doing fine. The parent then starts singing this song. I agree it's probably one of the best songs ever!! You can hear the emotions in Don's voice too!!
Good call!
There isn’t a more perfect scenario for this song than what you just described.
Like you, this is one of my favorite songs ever. I never tire of hearing it though it always makes me cry. And the album is definitive Henley. He is one of the greatest song writers of our generation and in teaming up with Mike and JD, they created a masterpiece. Don's unique voice adds so much feeling to the song that it can't help but touch your heart.
yeah, sometimes I can’t listen to it bc of the sheer emotion
As a hard rock fan, this album turned my music listening all kinds of directions. Henley, Campbell and Souther are royalty and some of the best. Tom Petty is another. I saw Don Henley 3 times in this tour. In Ohio, in Arizona and Texas. My work had me in those places. Truly one of the greats
So cool! Wish i'd seen him! Thanks for sharing.
What did you think of the live shows?
Professor, really appreciate your personal story of how this great song resonated with you, and left you with a meaningful message/helpful path forward in life.
Thank you for all you do for your music loving fans!
Never heard Mike speaking, he sounds just like freaking Tom Petty!
This song, and "New York Minute" ... wow, the depth of emotion is incredible. The music, combined with the words, evokes such feelings ...
Love Mike Campbell!
Thank you Professor for reminding me of this song. My wife of 20 years left me 9 months ago without a reason and I am still trying to come to grips with it. I will take your dad's advice about this song too. Thanks again!
Funny, Don has never let go of the anger he has for Don Felder.
Love your channel, Professor! Thank you for this interview with the incredible JD Souther❤️
I was with my mother the first time she heard that song, and as she realized how much it applied to her marriage, she started crying
I guess I needed to revisit that but Christ life is cruel sometimes
Thank you for doing this video, Professor. I had no idea the song resonates as strongly with you and many others as it does with me, and it feels good to share that bond of recognizing great music and lyrics.
This is easily my favorite Don Henley album. Between the opening track with Bruce Hornsby (still my favorite post-eagles track from anyone) and Last worthless evening and heart of the matter are all songs that kit kinda different when you get older.
For sure. Life lessons!
You appreciate them more as you age!