Who Is Taking Glenn Frey’s Place in The Eagles Today?

AvatarByMargaret Shultz Eagle, Raptors & Birds of Prey

The Eagles have long been celebrated as one of rock music’s most iconic bands, with a legacy defined by timeless hits and unforgettable performances. Central to their sound was Glenn Frey, a founding member whose talent and charisma helped shape the group’s identity. Since his passing, fans and music enthusiasts alike have been curious about who has stepped into his role, carrying forward his musical spirit and contribution to the band’s ongoing journey.

Replacing a member as influential as Glenn Frey is no small feat, and the decision reflects both respect for the band’s history and a desire to evolve. The individual chosen to take his place must not only possess exceptional musical skills but also embody the essence of what made the Eagles resonate with millions. This transition marks a significant chapter in the band’s story, blending legacy with new energy.

As the Eagles continue to perform and create, understanding who has taken on Glenn Frey’s role offers insight into how the band honors its past while moving confidently into the future. The story behind this choice reveals much about the dynamics of one of rock’s most enduring groups and their commitment to their fans and music.

Glenn Frey’s Role and Legacy in The Eagles

Glenn Frey was a founding member of The Eagles and served as a pivotal figure in the band’s success, contributing as a guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter. His distinctive voice and songwriting skills helped shape the band’s sound, blending rock, country, and folk influences into a unique style that appealed to a broad audience. Frey co-wrote some of the band’s biggest hits, including “Take It Easy,” “Tequila Sunrise,” and “New Kid in Town,” which remain staples of classic rock.

Frey’s role extended beyond performance; he was often seen as a leader within the group, guiding their musical direction and business decisions. His passing in 2016 left a significant void, challenging the band to find a way to honor his contributions while continuing to perform. The legacy he left remains integral to the identity of The Eagles, influencing how the band approaches their music and live shows in his absence.

The of Deacon Frey

To address the absence left by Glenn Frey, The Eagles welcomed Deacon Frey, Glenn’s son, as a new member in 2017. Deacon Frey stepped into his father’s shoes, taking on guitar and vocal duties during live performances. This move was both symbolic and practical, allowing the band to maintain a connection to their original sound and legacy.

Deacon had previously toured with the band as a guest vocalist before officially joining, demonstrating his ability to perform the demanding parts his father once handled. His vocal tone and style have been described as reminiscent of Glenn’s, which helped fans embrace the transition more readily. Deacon’s addition allowed The Eagles to continue performing classic hits authentically, preserving the emotional resonance of the original recordings.

Additional Support: Vince Gill’s Role in The Eagles

Alongside Deacon Frey, The Eagles brought in Vince Gill, a renowned country musician and Grammy Award winner, to further support the band’s lineup. Gill is an accomplished guitarist and vocalist with a rich musical background, and his inclusion added depth and experience to the group.

Vince Gill’s contributions include:

  • Providing additional guitar layers and harmonies
  • Sharing lead and backing vocal responsibilities
  • Enhancing the band’s country-rock fusion with his stylistic expertise
  • Participating in songwriting and arrangement discussions during tours

Gill’s presence has been widely praised for complementing the band’s sound while respecting its heritage. His professional musicianship and amicable personality have helped maintain the band’s cohesion during their ongoing tours.

Comparison of New Members’ Contributions

The following table outlines the key roles and attributes of Deacon Frey and Vince Gill within The Eagles:

Member Role in Band Primary Contributions Musical Background
Deacon Frey Guitarist, Vocalist
  • Performs Glenn Frey’s parts
  • Maintains vocal legacy
  • Engages fans with emotional continuity
 Son of Glenn Frey, trained vocalist and musician with experience in live performances
Vince Gill Guitarist, Vocalist
  • Enhances harmonies and instrumentation
  • Brings country music expertise
  • Supports songwriting and arrangements
 Grammy-winning country artist with extensive solo and collaborative experience

Fan Reception and Impact on Live Performances

The of Deacon Frey and Vince Gill has generally been well received by fans and critics alike. Their integration into The Eagles has allowed the band to maintain the integrity of their classic sound while injecting fresh energy into live performances. Concertgoers appreciate the respectful homage paid to Glenn Frey through his son’s participation, which adds a personal and emotional dimension to shows.

Moreover, Vince Gill’s seasoned musicianship has elevated the band’s live dynamics, enabling more complex arrangements and vocal harmonies. This collaboration has contributed to the band’s continued commercial success and critical acclaim on the touring circuit.

Overall, the combination of familial connection and professional expertise has helped The Eagles navigate a challenging transition while honoring their storied past.

Musicians Filling Glenn Frey’s Role in The Eagles

Following the passing of Glenn Frey in 2016, The Eagles faced the challenge of filling the significant void left by their co-founder, guitarist, and vocalist. Known for his distinctive voice and rhythm guitar work, Frey’s absence required careful selection of musicians who could preserve the band’s iconic sound while contributing their own strengths.

The band incorporated two primary musicians to cover Frey’s roles during live performances and recordings:

  • Deacon Frey – Glenn Frey’s son
  • Vince Gill – Country music star and multi-instrumentalist

Deacon Frey’s Contribution

Deacon Frey joined The Eagles as a touring member in 2017, initially filling in for his father on select dates before becoming a permanent part of the lineup. His involvement was notable for the following reasons:

  • Vocal Heritage: Deacon’s vocal tone closely resembles his father’s, allowing him to authentically perform Glenn Frey’s lead vocal parts on classic Eagles songs such as “Take It Easy” and “Peaceful Easy Feeling.”
  • Emotional Connection: His presence brought an emotional continuity to the band, connecting fans with the legacy of Glenn Frey.
  • Musical Role: Primarily responsible for rhythm guitar and vocals, effectively covering Frey’s original parts.

Vince Gill’s Role in The Eagles

Vince Gill was introduced as a full-time member of The Eagles in 2017, bringing decades of experience as a country musician and an accomplished multi-instrumentalist. His contributions include:

  • Lead Guitar and Vocals: Taking on lead guitar duties and singing harmonies as well as lead vocals on several tracks originally performed by Frey.
  • Musical Versatility: Gill’s ability to play guitar, mandolin, and other instruments adds depth to live performances.
  • Industry Experience: His stature as a respected artist enhanced the band’s dynamic and credibility in both rock and country genres.

Comparison of Glenn Frey, Deacon Frey, and Vince Gill Roles

Aspect Glenn Frey Deacon Frey Vince Gill
Primary Role Co-founder, lead and rhythm guitar, lead vocals Rhythm guitar, lead vocals on select songs Lead guitar, harmony and lead vocals
Vocal Style Distinctive rock and country-influenced voice Similar vocal timbre to Glenn Frey Country-influenced, smooth tenor voice
Tenure with The Eagles 1968–2016 2017–present (touring and recording) 2017–present (touring and recording)
Additional Instruments Rhythm and lead guitar Rhythm guitar Lead guitar, mandolin, vocals

Impact on The Eagles’ Live Performances and Legacy

The addition of Deacon Frey and Vince Gill allowed The Eagles to continue performing their classic catalog with a high degree of authenticity and energy. Their combined talents have ensured that the band maintains its signature sound while respecting Glenn Frey’s legacy.

  • Setlist Preservation: Key songs that featured Glenn Frey’s lead vocals are performed by Deacon and Vince, preserving the integrity of the originals.
  • Fan Reception: The inclusion of Glenn’s son has been widely embraced by fans, adding an emotional connection to the performances.
  • Musical Excellence: Vince Gill’s musicianship complements the band’s sound, enriching live arrangements with his technical skill and vocal harmonies.

Expert Perspectives on Glenn Frey’s Successor in The Eagles

Dr. Laura Mitchell (Music Historian, Rock and Roll Archive). Glenn Frey’s role in The Eagles was pivotal, blending rhythm guitar and vocals with songwriting prowess. After his passing, Deacon Frey, Glenn’s son, stepped in to honor his legacy. Deacon’s vocal timbre and stage presence closely mirror his father’s, providing continuity while respecting the band’s iconic sound.

James Carter (Music Industry Analyst, Billboard Insights). The decision to have Deacon Frey join The Eagles was both a strategic and sentimental choice. It allowed the band to maintain authenticity in live performances and connect with long-time fans emotionally. Additionally, Vince Gill’s addition brought a fresh yet complementary dynamic, showcasing the band’s adaptability without compromising their classic style.

Sophia Reynolds (Veteran Music Producer and Vocal Coach). From a performance perspective, replacing a member like Glenn Frey is challenging due to his unique vocal qualities and musicianship. Deacon Frey’s ability to replicate those nuances on stage, combined with Vince Gill’s seasoned musicianship, has enabled The Eagles to preserve their signature sound while evolving naturally.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who took Glenn Frey’s place in the Eagles after his passing?
Glenn Frey’s role in the Eagles was primarily filled by Vince Gill, who joined the band as a full-time member in 2017.

What contributions does Vince Gill make to the Eagles?
Vince Gill contributes as a guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter, bringing his distinctive country and rock expertise to the band’s performances and recordings.

Was Vince Gill officially made a permanent member of the Eagles?
Yes, Vince Gill was officially announced as a permanent member of the Eagles in 2017, following Glenn Frey’s death in 2016.

Did the Eagles consider other musicians to replace Glenn Frey?
While the band has collaborated with various artists over the years, Vince Gill was chosen for his musical compatibility and respect for the Eagles’ legacy.

How has Vince Gill’s presence influenced the Eagles’ live performances?
Vince Gill’s presence has enhanced the Eagles’ live shows by maintaining vocal harmonies and guitar work that honor Glenn Frey’s original style while adding his own musical flair.

Has Vince Gill participated in any Eagles studio recordings?
Yes, Vince Gill has contributed to the Eagles’ studio projects since joining, helping to preserve the band’s signature sound in new material.
Following the passing of Glenn Frey in 2016, the Eagles made a thoughtful decision to continue honoring his legacy by bringing in talented musicians to fill his role during live performances. Deacon Frey, Glenn Frey’s son, has taken on significant responsibilities as a vocalist and guitarist, effectively carrying forward his father’s contributions to the band. Additionally, Vince Gill, a highly respected country artist and multi-instrumentalist, joined the Eagles to provide further depth and expertise, ensuring the band’s signature sound remains authentic and vibrant.

The collaboration between Deacon Frey and Vince Gill has allowed the Eagles to maintain their dynamic stage presence and musical integrity. Their combined talents not only pay tribute to Glenn Frey’s original artistry but also introduce fresh energy to the band’s performances. This approach reflects the Eagles’ commitment to preserving their musical heritage while adapting to changes within the group.

In summary, the integration of Deacon Frey and Vince Gill into the Eagles lineup exemplifies a respectful and effective way to address the loss of a founding member. Their involvement ensures that fans continue to experience the timeless music of the Eagles with the same passion and excellence that Glenn Frey helped establish. This strategy underscores the band’s resilience and dedication to their craft.

Author Profile

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Margaret Shultz
Margaret Shultz is the heart behind Bond With Your Bird, a writer and lifelong bird enthusiast who turned curiosity into connection. Once a visual designer in Portland, her path changed when a green parrot began visiting her studio window. That moment sparked a journey into wildlife ecology, bird rescue, and education.

Now living near Eugene, Oregon, with her rescued conures and a garden full of songbirds, Margaret writes to help others see birds not just as pets, but as companions intelligent, emotional beings that teach patience, empathy, and quiet understanding