“Eagles” co-founder Randy Meisner died at age 77 on Wednesday due to complications from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, according to a statement from the band.
Meisner, as well as Glenn Frey, Don Henley and Bernie Leadon, formed the iconic ban in 1971. The group created multiple albums, including Eagles, Desperado, On The Border, One of These Nights and Hotel California.
“Randy was an integral part of the Eagles and instrumental in the early success of the band. His vocal range was astonishing, as is evident on his signature ballad, ‘Take It to the Limit,’” said the Eagles.
Meisner wrote one of the band’s most beloved hits: “Take It to the Limit.” According to Rolling Stone, Meisner was inspired to write the song while alone one night in his Los Angeles home.
“I was feeling kind of lonely and started singing ‘All alone at the end of the evening, and the bright lights have faded to blue,’” Meisner said. “And it went from there.”
While recording the song, Meisner nailed the high note at the end.
“Randy said, ‘If it’s a hit, I’m going to have to hit that note every night,’” producer Bill Szymczyk recalled “Which is exactly what happened.”
Tributes to Meisner were posted across social media on Friday.
“It is altogether fitting and proper that I play this album tonight. RIP Randy Meisner. Most of us are sad it’s true, but still we must go on,” tweeted radio presenter Hugh Evans.
Singer and songwriter Larry Brewer tweeted, “Just heard that Randy Meisner has died. Original member of The Eagles. Fabulous vocalist, bassist, and songwriter. Sad news.”
“RIP, Mr. Meisner. Your work inspired and led the way for an entire generation of bass players and musicians. Your voice will ring forever in our hearts and ears. Thank you and Godspeed,” Twitter user Jimbo Hart wrote.
This was a breaking news story. The details were periodically updated as more information became available.
