Eagles Announce The Death Of Founding Member Randy Meisner At The Age Of 77
The Eagles had some sad news to share with their Facebook followers on Thursday evening (July 27). Randy Meisner, one of the group’s founding members, passed away the previous day (Wednesday, July 26).
Meisner was 77 years old at the time of his death. He died due to complications from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary disease, more commonly known by its acronym COPD.
BREAKING: Randy Meisner, a founding member of the Eagles who added high harmonies to favorites like “Take It Easy” and “The Best of My Love” has died, the band said Thursday. He was 77. https://t.co/ZXaZcSbyBy
— The Associated Press (@AP) July 27, 2023
According to Mayo Clinic, COPD “is a chronic inflammatory lung disease that causes obstructed airflow from the lungs. Symptoms include breathing difficulty, cough, mucus (sputum) production and wheezing.” It is a progressive disease that gets worse with the passage of time.
The Role Meisner Played In Forming The Eagles – He Contributed To Some Of Their Greatest Albums
Meisner started out as the original bass player for the groundbreaking country-rock group, Poco. Then in 1971, he joined Glenn Frey, Don Henley, and Bernie Leadon to form the Eagles. He served as a singer and bassist in the band.
Over the course of his time with the Eagles, Meisner contributed to some of their most successful albums, including Eagles, Desperado, On The Border, One of These Nights, and Hotel California.
Meisner’s talents were recognized by the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame when he and the Eagles were inducted into the institution in 1998.
“Randy was an integral part of the Eagles and instrumental in the early success of the band,” the Eagles said in their statement. “His vocal range was astonishing, as is evident on his signature ballad, ‘Take It to the Limit.'”
You can read the Eagles’ full statement about Meisner’s death below.
When Is Randy Meisner’s Funeral?
According to the statement from the Eagles, Meisner’s funeral arrangements are currently pending. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family, friends, former bandmates, and all who loved him.
May he rest in peace.