Don Henley is an American musician, singer, songwriter, and founding member of the Eagles, one of the most successful bands in the history of popular music. Born on July 22, 1947, in Gilmer, Texas, Henley is renowned for his distinctive voice, insightful songwriting, and contributions to the country-rock genre.
Henley rose to fame as the drummer and co-lead vocalist of the Eagles, alongside Glenn Frey. The band achieved massive commercial success in the 1970s with a string of hit singles and albums, including “Hotel California,” “Desperado,” “Take It Easy,” and “One of These Nights.” Henley’s songwriting credits with the Eagles include some of their most enduring hits, such as “The Boys of Summer,” “New Kid in Town,” and “Heartache Tonight.”
In addition to his work with the Eagles, Henley has enjoyed a successful solo career. He released several critically acclaimed albums, including “I Can’t Stand Still” (1982), “Building the Perfect Beast” (1984), and “The End of the Innocence” (1989). His solo hits include “Dirty Laundry,” “The Boys of Summer,” “All She Wants to Do Is Dance,” and “The Heart of the Matter.”
Henley is also known for his activism and advocacy on environmental and political issues. He co-founded the Walden Woods Project, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving the land near Walden Pond in Massachusetts. Henley’s music often reflects his concerns about social and environmental issues, earning him a reputation as a thoughtful and socially conscious artist.
Throughout his career, Don Henley has been recognized with numerous awards and honors, including multiple Grammy Awards, induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of the Eagles, and the Walden Woods Project’s Global Environmental Leadership Award. He continues to perform and record music, leaving an indelible mark on the world of rock and popular music.
1. The Last Worthless Evening
“The Last Worthless Evening” is a song by American musician Don Henley, released in 1989 as the third single from his album “The End of the Innocence.” The song was written by Henley along with John Corey and Stan Lynch.
“The Last Worthless Evening” is a soft rock ballad that showcases Henley’s emotive vocals and introspective songwriting. The lyrics describe a bittersweet encounter between two people who share a past but have drifted apart over time. Henley sings about the longing and regret of lost love, reflecting on the fleeting nature of relationships and the passage of time.
Musically, “The Last Worthless Evening” features a melodic arrangement with acoustic guitar, piano, and atmospheric synthesizers, creating a lush and evocative backdrop for Henley’s vocals. The song’s heartfelt melody and poignant lyrics resonate with listeners, capturing the universal experience of heartbreak and nostalgia.
“The Last Worthless Evening” received positive reviews from critics and became a moderate hit on the charts, reaching the top 40 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song’s emotional depth and Henley’s soulful delivery have made it a favorite among fans of soft rock and adult contemporary music, cementing its status as one of Henley’s most enduring and beloved songs.
2. Not Enough Love in the World
“Not Enough Love in the World” is a song by American singer and songwriter Don Henley, released in 1984 as part of his album “Building the Perfect Beast.” It was written by Henley, along with Danny Kortchmar and Benmont Tench.
“Not Enough Love in the World” is a soft rock ballad that features Henley’s smooth vocals and reflective lyrics. The song explores themes of loneliness, longing, and the search for meaningful connections in a world that often feels cold and indifferent.
The track’s melody is gentle and melodic, with understated instrumentation that allows Henley’s vocals to take center stage. The song’s emotional depth and introspective lyrics resonate with listeners, capturing the universal experience of yearning for love and companionship.
“Not Enough Love in the World” received positive reviews from critics and became a moderate hit on the charts, reaching the top 40 in several countries. It remains a favorite among fans of Henley’s music and is often praised for its heartfelt sincerity and timeless appeal.
3. Taking You Home
“Taking You Home” is a song by American musician Don Henley, released in 2000 as the lead single from his album “Inside Job.” The song was written by Henley, Stuart Brawley, and Stan Lynch.
“Taking You Home” is a soft rock ballad that showcases Henley’s smooth vocals and reflective songwriting. The lyrics describe a late-night drive with a loved one, as the narrator reflects on their journey together and the passage of time. The song’s lyrics convey a sense of intimacy and nostalgia, capturing the emotions of longing and connection.
Musically, “Taking You Home” features a melodic arrangement with acoustic guitar, piano, and subtle percussion, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The song’s gentle melody and Henley’s emotive delivery make it a soothing and heartfelt listen, evoking feelings of comfort and serenity.
“Taking You Home” received positive reviews from critics and became a moderate hit on the adult contemporary charts. The song’s timeless appeal and Henley’s enduring popularity as a solo artist have ensured its status as a favorite among fans of soft rock and adult contemporary music.
4. The Boys of Summer
“The Boys of Summer” is a song by American singer-songwriter Don Henley, released in 1984 as the lead single from his album “Building the Perfect Beast.” It was written by Henley, along with Mike Campbell of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers.
“The Boys of Summer” is a classic rock song with elements of new wave and synth-pop. The lyrics tell the story of a man reflecting on a past romantic relationship during the summer season. The song’s chorus, with its memorable refrain “I can see you, your brown skin shining in the sun, You got your hair combed back and your sunglasses on, baby,” captures the nostalgia and longing for lost love.
The track features a distinctive guitar riff played by Mike Campbell, which has become one of the most recognizable guitar hooks in rock music. Henley’s emotive vocals and the song’s atmospheric production contributed to its commercial success and critical acclaim.
“The Boys of Summer” reached the top of the charts in several countries and won the Grammy Award for Best Male Rock Vocal Performance in 1985. It remains one of Henley’s most iconic songs and is often regarded as a classic of the 1980s rock era.
5. The End of the Innocence
“The End of the Innocence” is a song by American musician Don Henley, released in 1989 as the lead single and title track of his third studio album. The song was written by Henley along with Bruce Hornsby, who also contributed piano to the track.
“The End of the Innocence” is a powerful and introspective ballad that addresses social and political issues, as well as personal themes of loss and disillusionment. The lyrics explore themes of change, societal unrest, and the loss of innocence, reflecting on the complexities of the modern world.
Musically, “The End of the Innocence” features a rich and layered arrangement, with Henley’s soulful vocals accompanied by piano, synthesizers, and electric guitar. Hornsby’s piano playing adds depth and emotion to the song, while the soaring melody and poignant lyrics create a sense of urgency and emotional resonance.
“The End of the Innocence” received widespread critical acclaim upon its release and became one of Henley’s most successful songs. It reached the top ten on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and won the Grammy Award for Best Male Rock Vocal Performance in 1990. The song’s timeless message and Henley’s impassioned delivery have ensured its enduring popularity and status as a classic of contemporary rock music.
6. The Heart of the Matter
“The Heart of the Matter” is a song by American musician Don Henley, released in 1989 as the third single from his album “The End of the Innocence.” The song was written by Henley, along with Mike Campbell and J.D. Souther.
“The Heart of the Matter” is a contemplative ballad that explores themes of forgiveness, acceptance, and personal growth. The lyrics reflect on the complexities of relationships and the process of healing from past hurts and betrayals. Henley sings about the importance of letting go of resentment and learning to move forward with grace and compassion.
Musically, “The Heart of the Matter” features a soulful and introspective arrangement, with Henley’s emotive vocals accompanied by acoustic guitar, piano, and subtle percussion. The song’s gentle melody and poignant lyrics create a sense of intimacy and vulnerability, inviting listeners to reflect on their own experiences of love and forgiveness.
“The Heart of the Matter” received critical acclaim upon its release and became one of Henley’s most successful songs. It reached the top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and remains a favorite among fans of soft rock and adult contemporary music. The song’s timeless message of redemption and resilience has ensured its enduring popularity and relevance.
7. All She Wants to Do Is Dance
“All She Wants to Do Is Dance” is a song by American singer-songwriter Don Henley, released in 1984 as part of his album “Building the Perfect Beast.” Henley co-wrote the song with Danny Kortchmar.
“All She Wants to Do Is Dance” is a catchy and upbeat rock song with elements of pop and reggae. The lyrics tell the story of a woman who is only interested in dancing and having a good time, oblivious to the social and political issues surrounding her.
The song’s infectious rhythm and memorable chorus, with its repeated refrain “All she wants to do is dance,” contributed to its commercial success. It became one of Henley’s most popular solo hits, reaching the top 10 on the charts in several countries.
“All She Wants to Do Is Dance” received positive reviews from critics and remains a favorite among fans of Henley’s music. Its lively energy and catchy melody have made it a staple of classic rock radio playlists and a popular choice for dance floors around the world.
8. Dirty Laundry
“Dirty Laundry” is a song by American singer-songwriter Don Henley, released in 1982 as part of his debut solo album “I Can’t Stand Still.” Henley co-wrote the song with Danny Kortchmar.
“Dirty Laundry” is a satirical and critical commentary on the sensationalism and superficiality of the news media industry. The lyrics skewer tabloid journalism and the culture of celebrity gossip, highlighting the media’s tendency to prioritize scandal and controversy over substantive news.
The song’s chorus, with its memorable refrain “Kick ’em when they’re up, kick ’em when they’re down,” captures the cynical attitude towards the media’s treatment of public figures.
“Dirty Laundry” features a driving rock beat and a catchy guitar riff, along with Henley’s distinctive vocals. The song’s upbeat tempo and infectious melody belies its darker lyrical themes, creating a juxtaposition that adds to its impact.
“Dirty Laundry” became one of Henley’s most successful solo singles, reaching the top 10 on the charts in several countries. It remains a favorite among fans of his music and is often cited as one of the standout tracks from his solo career. Its message about the dangers of media sensationalism and the importance of critical thinking continues to resonate with listeners today.
9. Sunset Grill
“Sunset Grill” is a song by American musician Don Henley, released in 1984 as the fourth single from his album “Building the Perfect Beast.” The song was written by Henley along with his longtime collaborator, guitarist Danny Kortchmar.
“Sunset Grill” is a rock song with elements of blues and jazz, featuring a laid-back groove and atmospheric instrumentation. The lyrics paint a vivid portrait of a late-night hangout spot called the “Sunset Grill,” where patrons gather to escape the pressures of everyday life and find solace in music, drinks, and companionship. Henley’s evocative storytelling and soulful delivery capture the ambiance of the setting, inviting listeners to imagine themselves at the scene.
Musically, “Sunset Grill” features a smooth and melodic arrangement, with Henley’s vocals accompanied by electric guitar, keyboards, and a driving rhythm section. The song’s infectious groove and catchy chorus make it a favorite among fans of Henley’s solo work, while its atmospheric sound and evocative lyrics have contributed to its enduring popularity.
“Sunset Grill” received positive reviews from critics and became a moderate hit on the charts, reaching the top 40 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song’s timeless appeal and Henley’s masterful storytelling have cemented its status as a classic of 1980s rock music.
10. New York Minute
“New York Minute” is a song by American singer-songwriter Don Henley, released in 1989 as part of his album “The End of the Innocence.” Henley co-wrote the song with Danny Kortchmar and Jai Winding.
“New York Minute” is a reflective ballad that explores themes of life, time, and loss. The lyrics paint a vivid portrait of New York City, capturing the frenetic pace of urban life and the fleeting nature of time. The song’s chorus, with its haunting refrain “In a New York minute, everything can change,” underscores the transient and unpredictable nature of life in the city.
The track features Henley’s emotive vocals and atmospheric production, with lush instrumentation that includes piano, synthesizers, and strings. The song’s evocative melody and poignant lyrics create a sense of introspection and melancholy that resonates with listeners.
“New York Minute” received positive reviews from critics and became one of the standout tracks from “The End of the Innocence” album. While it was not released as a single, the song has remained a fan favorite and is often cited as one of Henley’s most powerful and thought-provoking compositions. Its timeless message about the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment continues to resonate with audiences today.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
