Eagles musical: "Hotel California"

[Koala]

The Eagles Creating HOTEL CALIFORNIA Musical


http://broadwayworld.com/article/The-Eagles-Creating-HOTEL-CALIFORNIA-Musical-20110916

[EaglesKiwi]

Hmmm. Given the speed with which they complete albums, I wonder how long this would take to be completed... :hilarious:

[AzEaglesFan]

Not in our lifetime. :-(

[VAisForEagleLovers]

I would think they'd be working with others on this and not on their own. So they might actually have...dare we say the evil word out loud....deadlines?

[EaglesKiwi]

I would think they'd be working with others on this and not on their own. So they might actually have...dare we say the evil word out loud....deadlines?
:shock: You might have to wash your mouth out... :hilarious:
:whip::whip::whip:

[Ive always been a dreamer]

:shock: You might have to wash your mouth out... :hilarious:
:whip::whip::whip:

... and bite your tongue!!!! :hilarious:
:whip::whip::whip:

NO! NO! NO! Not the dreaded "D" word!!!

But, maybe someone to nudge them along a little would work. :wink:

[Prettymaid]

My first reaction is :eyebrow::fear::doh::confused::huh::headscratch:

[TimothyBFan]

I'm with you PM!!! :eyebrow:

[GettheLeadonOut!!]

Anybody see this recent blurb, from good old Irving Azoff:

"One of his mainstays, The Eagles, continues to tour and plans a Broadway show called (what else?) Hotel California."


Source:

http://www.deadline.com/2011/09/live-nation-says-stage-is-set-for-strong-2012-despite-new-competition/#more-171940

[Brooke]

I just find that very hard to believe. :headscratch:

[Freypower]

I would prefer that they didn't do this. But who am I to criticise. :brickwall:

[sodascouts]

Glenn mentioned this in an interview he did a few months ago. We talked about it a bit here: https://www.eaglesonlinecentral.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1145&page=21

Like I said there, if it's done well, I'm down with it - even though hearing the songs sung by Broadway singers instead of the Eagles will be jarring and, naturally, not as satisfying.

I hope it's quasi-autobiographical like Jersey Boys instead of just the songs arranged to fit a fictional story like Mamma Mia.

[VAisForEagleLovers]

One thing we can count on (I'm pretty sure, anyway), is that the guys maintained enough control over it that if it's not what they want and how they want it, they'll pull the plug on it.

[WalshFan88]

Not sure how I feel about this... Broadway is NOT my cup of tea. I don't know if I'd go to it but hey - I love the name. ;)

[sodascouts]

I merged our recent convos about this into a single thread to make it easier to follow, if you're wondering why this thread suddenly doubled in size!

[EaglesKiwi]

Thanks for setting up the thread, Soda.

Not sure how I feel about this either. If it's "quasi-autobiographical" it will probably attract a fair amount of nasty reviews no matter how well done it is.

[Topkat]

I can't even imagine them wanting to do this, given all the stuff I read about them not liking NY, & especially the critics.
I'm not so sure I'm in love with this idea, but I would probably see it. It could be interesting.

[Prettymaid]

It's almost like they've all come to the realization that time is getting short and they want to 'do it all'. IMHO they should not venture into this musical thing, or at least they should not be too closely associated with it. Take for example The Beatles Love by Cirque du Soleil. This is a show that The Beatles obviously had to give their blessing to, but is not something they themselves were involved with (to my knowledge). That seems better to me for some reason.

[TimothyBFan]

Sorry, still not feeling the love for this idea...Eagles or not! I just don't think I can handle Eagles songs being sung Broadway style. But then, I'm not a musical fan at all. Still scary!!! :fear:

[Topkat]

I think it could be done well, & I think there are some great young singers that could do the songs justice, but the more I think about it, the more I think this is some idea that Irv Azoff has come up with or is pushing for...

[Ive always been a dreamer]

Well - I'm conflicted about this as well. On one hand I gererally love anything Eagles, but like everyone else, I would hope this would be done in good taste. I also hope that the band has sufficient control over the project so that they can make sure it meets their usual high standards. As someone else said - no cheese please! If it's well done, it could be fun. :partytime:

[sodascouts]

Who are some men doing Broadway nowadays? We could entertain ourselves by picking out a few to play our guys! "Cast the Eagles musical!"

[Henley Honey]

I think Hugh Jackman should "play" Glenn.

[sodascouts]

I can see it!

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b141/glennfreyonline/misc/hugh-jackman.jpg

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b141/glennfreyonline/vma17.jpg

[sodascouts]

Here he is with more hair, lol, a la 70s Glenn! Of course, he'd have to learn Glenn's accent. ;)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JjRNxUadPGo

[Freypower]

Just what you want - an Australian playing Glenn Frey. :fear:

Seriously, I doubt it would be autobiographical. I think it would more likely be a story based around the characters in the Hotel California. They would need to use a few more songs than those just on that album. In what context would The Last Resort be sung, for example?

[Ive always been a dreamer]

Who knows what the plot will be. If you use your imagination and think outside of the box, the possibilities are endless. :thumbsup:

And I agree that Hugh Jackman could do Glenn.

And does Owen Wilson do Broadway? I think he would be a good young Joe. Sean Penn would work too. and he could do Broadway, I'm sure. Got these ideas from a similar thread we had a while back.

[sodascouts]

Seriously, I doubt it would be autobiographical. I think it would more likely be a story based around the characters in the Hotel California.
I suppose you're right. Far less interesting, IMHO!

[Topkat]

I think it would be the story of the Eagles, not some made up story about a hotel.

I think that Owen Wilson, Sean Penn & even Hugh Jackman are all too old & not good enough singers to do it. Plus, I highly doubt any of them would do it.

My guess; it would be some younger guys that are really great singers & musicians. Probably unknown guys that they find from various bands. Hair & makeup can make them look more like the guys.

[Freypower]

But I don't know how you make the Eagles' story interesting enough for a stage show. I'm trying to be objective here. For a Broadway show to work it really has to appeal to a wide audience, not just 'hardcore'. How many New Yorkers and international theatre goers would want to see the story of a California rock band (even if they are America's greatest band) told on stage? How much dialogue? What would be emphasised? Would it cover the entire 40 years? How would the 'conflict' between band members be dealt with?

I agree with TK that if it were to be done this way they would need to use unknown or up & coming singers, so that it would feel more authentic.

The reason I think the 'made up story about a hotel' idea would work better is quite simply that it would have wider appeal and it would be easier to work the songs into the story.

I mean what is your opening sequence if it's autobiographical? The Glenn character meets the Don character perhaps? Then what? Does 'Glenn' suddenly start singing Take It Easy?

[sodascouts]

I think that Owen Wilson, Sean Penn & even Hugh Jackman are all too old & not good enough singers to do it. Plus, I highly doubt any of them would do it. My guess; it would be some younger guys that are really great singers & musicians. Probably unknown guys that they find from various bands. Hair & makeup can make them look more like the guys.

Realistically, this is probably true. I was just trying to have a bit of fun with the idea. :)



I mean what is your opening sequence if it's autobiographical? The Glenn character meets the Don character perhaps? Then what? Does 'Glenn' suddenly start singing Take It Easy?

Well, there are ways for the songs to be integrated a little more creatively than that, FP - like I said, Jersey Boys (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jersey_Boys) managed it, and managed it well.

[Topkat]

Well, there are ways for the songs to be integrated a little more creatively than that, FP - like I said, Jersey Boys (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jersey_Boys) managed it, and managed it well.I was thinking of Jersey Boys also.That was a huge success. People come to hear the music, & the Eagles music is very popular.

I could see Glenn & Don hanging out at the Troubadour & the whole scene that started there. The "New Kids In Town" & how they met & made it big. It would be more than just the "Hotel California" music. I could totally see it! :partytime:

[sodascouts]

Don's latest interview (http://www.recordnet.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20110929/A_ENTERTAIN/109290308&cid=sitesearch) seems to imply that it probably won't be biographical. He described the musical as "a theatrical production based on our musical catalog." To me, that leans towards fictionalized story set to their music.

[StephUK]

Don's latest interview (http://www.recordnet.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20110929/A_ENTERTAIN/109290308&cid=sitesearch) seems to imply that it probably won't be biographical. He described the musical as "a theatrical production based on our musical catalog." To me, that leans towards fictionalized story set to their music.

You mean like an Eagles 'Mama Mia'? Interesting.

[Topkat]

I don't know what that statement means. I don't think that it's necessarily a fictional story. Sounds like the whole thing is in the very early stages & won't be happening for at least 2 years, so we will see what happens, but it better not be anything like "Mama Mia". That was the pits!

[Ive always been a dreamer]

I'm not sure if anything much can be made of Don's comments about the musical. The only thing that seems certain is that there won't be any premiere in the 40th anniversary year. To me, a theatrical production based on their musical catalog could still be somewhat biographical.

[Freypower]

Don's latest interview (http://www.recordnet.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20110929/A_ENTERTAIN/109290308&cid=sitesearch) seems to imply that it probably won't be biographical. He described the musical as "a theatrical production based on our musical catalog." To me, that leans towards fictionalized story set to their music.

That's what I thought from the beginning, and I still think it is more likely to be fictional if it happens. I saw Mamma Mia and the story was really clunky. I hope they can do something better than that. I suppose I can't see how their own story could be dramatised for the stage. They were formed and became successful very quickly. They had personality clashes. They broke up & reformed. How can that be successfully dramatised and which songs would you use to do it? On the other hand.... I just don't know, to be honest.

[EaglesKiwi]

I suppose I can't see how their own story could be dramatised for the stage. They were formed and became successful very quickly. They had personality clashes. They broke up & reformed. How can that be successfully dramatised and which songs would you use to do it?
I can see a biographical story working. Some of the songs might have to be taken out of chronological order though - for example instead of starting with Take It Easy they might want something to reflect them traveling to California full of dreams... (any ideas?). Getting together & recording, then the radio release of Take It Easy.

Also, some songs can be included as a show-within-the-show.

The basic structure would probably be two acts, with 10 or so songs in each act.

Act 1 could be focused on having a dream, working their butts off and succeeding, touring and touching on the "party lifestyle". Oh, and falling in and out of love :hilarious:

Then Act 2 could be the metaphor of the Hotel California / seedy side of the dream, consequences of Life In The Fast Lane and everything falling apart - then the reunion, HFO tour and LROOE album.

[Ive always been a dreamer]

Me likes, EK! :thumbsup:

[sodascouts]

Well, this thread is a year old, but according to Glenn this thing's almost "ready to rock."

[Topkat]

I can't even imagine who is going to be playing the Eagles on Broadway! Oh boy, this I have to see! They better be able to sing their asses off, that's all I gotta say!

[sodascouts]

Glenn says that Rita Wilson, the woman who was behind Mamma Mia (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0795421/), is also behind this. I don't think we should expect any actors to be playing the Eagles, but rather fictional characters like the ones in Mamma Mia.

Mamma Mia was alright, but nothing to write home about. Hopefully Hotel California will be better.

I wonder if they'll include other Eagles hits that aren't on that particular album?

[Freypower]

They would surely have to, because HC only contains 8 songs.

[sodascouts]

Yes, you're right. Plus, people would be disappointed not to hear "Take It Easy" and other signature Eagles songs.

[TimothyBFan]

And I'm still not feeling good about this. Ugh!!

[Freypower]

And I'm still not feeling good about this. Ugh!!

I'm with you, I'm afraid.

[GlennLover]

I loved Momma Mia, but the HC musical would have to be done "just right" to be successful (and tasteful). I have my doubts. :eyebrow:

[sodascouts]

I admit I'm nervous, too... but it could be good. Let's hope for the best!

I might be headed to Broadway when this comes out - I don't want to wait for it to tour.

[timfan]

I must say that I am slightly disapointed that the Eagles focus may have diverted from the DVD that we've been hearing so much about for the last year. I am not ( and have never been) overly enthused about the Hotel California musical idea but perhaps as the details of this project emerge I will become more intrigued.

[sodascouts]

Yeah, the DVD is definitely a bigger treat to look forward to; the musical might be good (and I wish it great success) but it's not the REAL Eagles. The DVD, on the other hand, is chock full of real-Eagle-goodness.

Perhaps one project isn't really slowing the other, though, in the sense that if Rita Wilson has the musical in hand they can still focus on the DVD even as the musical moves forward.

[zeldabjr]

Well, this thread is a year old, but according to Glenn this thing's almost "ready to rock."

I had never seen this thread before and thought it must be a joke!...wow...was there something in the news today about it?
I'm not sure how I feel about it:eyebrow: but my gut reaction is ...I don't like the idea...but we can only hope for the best I guess and wait.

[Freypower]

I had never seen this thread before and thought it must be a joke!...wow...was there something in the news today about it?
I'm not sure how I feel about it:eyebrow: but my gut reaction is ...I don't like the idea...but we can only hope for the best I guess and wait.

There is some mention of it here. Glenn apparently talked about it during his current Australian promotional visit.

https://www.eaglesonlinecentral.com/forum/showthread.php?p=195559#post195559

[Topkat]

I didn't see Mamma Mia on Broadway but that was one of the worst movies I have ever seen....... So you think it will be some made up story with Eagles songs in the show.......I don't like the sound of that. I would rather it be like Jersey Boys, the Four Seasons story, Now I am really scared about this show!:fear:

[TimothyBFan]

Was telling hubby about this last night and he started laughing. My first instinct was to :steviesmack: but then I actually thought about how ludicrous this really does sound. Again my opinion, but as much as I love my Eagles, this just seems so far out there. And I'm probably just over thinking it all but with so many dates in Las Vegas and this musical thing, they just seem to be going in such totally different directions any more from what the rock n roll Eagles "should" be doing. Does that make sense to anyone else here? I guess, bottom line, I don't want them to become some "lounge act".

[Topkat]

Was telling hubby about this last night and he started laughing. My first instinct was to :steviesmack: but then I actually thought about how ludicrous this really does sound. Again my opinion, but as much as I love my Eagles, this just seems so far out there. And I'm probably just over thinking it all but with so many dates in Las Vegas and this musical thing, they just seem to be going in such totally different directions any more from what the rock n roll Eagles "should" be doing. Does that make sense to anyone else here? I guess, bottom line, I don't want them to become some "lounge act".

I agree with you on this. I don't like where this is all going either, but lets face it. They are probably going to do one more big tour, the 40th Anniversary Tour & that will be it. Maybe a few Vegas gigs here & there, but they are all approaching 65, so my guess is that this Broadway thing, & the DVD is to bump up the retirement funds. How much longer do you think they are going to want to tour? They may do some solo gigs. Don will probably tour his new album when it releases, & maybe Tim will do another album, which he says he's been working on, but I really don't see much after that, other than some random guest appearances.

[Ive always been a dreamer]

Yeah, the DVD is definitely a bigger treat to look forward to; the musical might be good (and I wish it great success) but it's not the REAL Eagles. The DVD, on the other hand, is chock full of real-Eagle-goodness.

Perhaps one project isn't really slowing the other, though, in the sense that if Rita Wilson has the musical in hand they can still focus on the DVD even as the musical moves forward.

Yeah - I agree with you here, Soda; plus they are certainly capable of muti-tasking. I learned a pretty long time ago not to try to predict this band's moves - and most of the time, I'm pleasantly surprised by what they do. They aren't perfect, but based on past history, I think they have pretty good instincts more often than not so I'm keeping my fingers crossed for all of their future projects. :cheers:

[zeldabjr]

Yeah - I agree with you here, Soda; plus they are certainly capable of muti-tasking. I learned a pretty long time ago not to try to predict this band's moves - and most of the time, I'm pleasantly surprised by what they do. They aren't perfect, but based on past history, I think they have pretty good instincts more often than not so I'm keeping my fingers crossed for all of their future projects. :cheers:

they're not perfect?;)..why did you have to tell me?

[Ive always been a dreamer]

:shh: I was just kidding, zelda. :grin:

[Prettymaid]

Was telling hubby about this last night and he started laughing. My first instinct was to :steviesmack: but then I actually thought about how ludicrous this really does sound. Again my opinion, but as much as I love my Eagles, this just seems so far out there. And I'm probably just over thinking it all but with so many dates in Las Vegas and this musical thing, they just seem to be going in such totally different directions any more from what the rock n roll Eagles "should" be doing. Does that make sense to anyone else here? I guess, bottom line, I don't want them to become some "lounge act".

It makes sense to me, because that's exactly what I've been thinking. I don't want to begrudge them what they want to do, it's just that the things they are choosing to do are not interesting to me. Mamma Mia, the movie, didn't do much for me, but I would watch Hotel California, the movie, if they make it into one. Just out of curiosity.

[Freypower]

It makes sense to me, because that's exactly what I've been thinking. I don't want to begrudge them what they want to do, it's just that the things they are choosing to do are not interesting to me. Mamma Mia, the movie, didn't do much for me, but I would watch Hotel California, the movie, if they make it into one. Just out of curiosity.

As far as we know it's a Broadway show, not a movie, at least not at this early stage of proceedings.

[Henley Honey]

I remember Glenn saying that he expected to have the musical on by 2015. He said they'd have the DVD out hopefully by Christmas of this year, tour again in the new year and then have the stage show as the next project but it'd take time and he used a two-year timetable.

I'll try and find the interview where he made these statements.

[Prettymaid]

As far as we know it's a Broadway show, not a movie, at least not at this early stage of proceedings.

Yeah, I know. I was just saying that Mamma Mia was made into a movie so perhaps someday HC would be too, and that's when I would see it.

[VAisForEagleLovers]

So, they have what they call in Broadway vernacular The Book. There's still a lot of work to do, and they're about a year and a half away from finishing it.

[WalshFan88]

I have to say, a broadway musical does NOT excite me in the least. I hope this doesn't affect the DVD - which DOES excite me.

[timfan]

All of our concerns about the Eagles DVD not happening may have been for not....This article about Joe was published yesterday.. from what he says here it looks like the Eagles documentary is still a go and almost done!

http://www.classichitsandoldies.com/v2/2012/10/02/joe-walsh-says-upcoming-eagles-documentary-is-powerful-stuff-looks-forward-to-40th-anniversary-tour/

[prayfordaylight]

I have to say, a broadway musical does NOT excite me in the least. I hope this doesn't affect the DVD - which DOES excite me.

I am in complete agreement. Other bands and albums lend themselves better to a musical than HC in my opinion.

[Brooke]

Was telling hubby about this last night and he started laughing. My first instinct was to :steviesmack: but then I actually thought about how ludicrous this really does sound. Again my opinion, but as much as I love my Eagles, this just seems so far out there. And I'm probably just over thinking it all but with so many dates in Las Vegas and this musical thing, they just seem to be going in such totally different directions any more from what the rock n roll Eagles "should" be doing. Does that make sense to anyone else here? I guess, bottom line, I don't want them to become some "lounge act".

You said it best Willie. I completely agree here!

I didn't care for the movie Mama Mia either and can't imagine what HC would be like at all. Even on Broadway. Just weird to me.

Now the dvd is something I would love! Let's have that guys!

[GlennLover]

Glenn states in this Australian interview that I just received in a google alert that the DVD is done. He doesn't mention the musical. (I'll also post it in the After Hours thread.

http://www.wsfm.com.au/shows/jonesy-amanda-morning/listen/jonesy-and-amandas-jamcast-3-october-2012

[UndertheWire]

As posted by Fastlane a radio show (http://1029thehog.com/bob-and-brian/103015-gary-graff-on-ozzy-don-henley-and-phil-collins/) had a summary of an interview with Don (starts at 6:30).

The gist was that Glenn is "spearheading" the exploration of a stage musical while Don and Joe tour. The success of the documentary was a wake-up call: "How else can we exploit this catalogue?"

No surprises, and a bit disappointing that Glenn seems to be in "executive" mode rather than working on new material.

I believe most of us would like them to exploit their catalogue by issuing more old concert footage. Or maybe a version of the HFO MTV concert with all the songs that didn't make the final cut. Even just nice, clean releases of the BBC and Kirshner concerts.

[Funk 50]

I've no interest at all in a stage musical. As far as I know, it's a painfully slow development process, even without adding an Eagles metabolism to it.

Starting with a writer approaching the band with a storyboard idea. if that's excepted they'll spend a few years kneading it into an entertaining script then they go through a process of recruitment and staging then a period of pre-production. The end product will be stage school types singing the Eagles back catalogue with show time accompaniment.

The Eagles would have little involvement beyond providing the inspiration, unless, for any one who has seen the 2013, Tom Hanks, Emma Thompson film, Saving Mr. Banks, about the Making of Mary Poppins, Glenn is doing a P.L. Travers and steering the process in the right direction.

If the Eagles musical is as good as Mary Poppins, it'll be worth a look although the Eagles song book doesn't contain a bunch of cheery, up-tempo, life affirming, show tunes.

I hope that, after spending some time in the stage musical environment, Glenn will be desperate to get back to making music with the career musicians he's worked with all his life.

[GlennLover]

I've no interest at all in a stage musical. As far as I know, it's a painfully slow development process, even without adding an Eagles metabolism to it.

Starting with a writer approaching the band with a storyboard idea. if that's excepted they'll spend a few years kneading it into an entertaining script then they go through a process of recruitment and staging then a period of pre-production. The end product will be stage school types singing the Eagles back catalogue with show time accompaniment.

The Eagles would have little involvement beyond providing the inspiration, unless, for any one who has seen the 2013, Tom Hanks, Emma Thompson film, Saving Mr. Banks, about the Making of Mary Poppins, Glenn is doing a P.L. Travers and steering the process in the right direction.

If the Eagles musical is as good as Mary Poppins, it'll be worth a look although the Eagles song book doesn't contain a bunch of cheery, up-tempo, life affirming, show tunes.

I hope that, after spending some time in the stage musical environment, Glenn will be desperate to get back to making music with the career musicians he's worked with all his life.

Quite some time ago they stated that Rita Wilson would be producing. I don't know if that has gone by the boards. Rita & Tom Hanks are personal friends of Glenn's. Also, Glenn has been living in New York for a few years now. I have a suspicion that he has been working on this project longer than they are admitting.

[Funk 50]

If Glenn has moved to New York to work on the Eagles stage show, I would think the production process is pretty advanced, maybe even working with a venue and cast. I guess everyone involved would have to sign a secrecy clause.

Glenn's adventure in New York city sounds like a potential musical in itself. :smile:

I think a Barry Manilow musical had a world wide premier around here. Manilow flew in to view it towards the end of it's run, presumably to judge it's potential but I'm sure he would have been involved earlier than that.

[UndertheWire]

I think they had a director attached at one time - Michael Mayer - but I can't find my source. I remember being impressed by his credits.

From the stuff I've read, a project like this seems like it would appeal to Glenn. More than any of them, he seems to be the one who likes the organising, picking people to work with and fitting it all together. Doing this in a new environment must be exciting and despite the "dictator" accusations, he does seem to be collaborative and able to step back and listen to other people.

Of course, I'd still rather he went back to writing and singing.

[Brooke]

I have no interest in a musical either. I would much rather Glenn stick to writing and performing.

And I wonder about his living in NY. Do you think he and Cindy are still together?

[MaryCalifornia]

I have started posts on this topic multiple times and have always deleted them. I was waiting for the conversation on the board to come around, and now it has!

Agree with Freypower that it probably past the "exploration" stage, since Glenn moved to NYC and Timothy bought a place and is spending time there with his family.

I think it is a perfect medium for the Eagles to be involved with - creativity, control, music, something different and challenging...what's not to like? And if it's a success - big $$$$$$$$$$$$.

I also think they could do a Laurel Canyon-themed show, with appearances of beloved songs from the period - Linda, Fleetwood Mac, etc...the story of the 70s, but Eagles songs-heavy.

[UndertheWire]

I have no interest in a musical either. I would much rather Glenn stick to writing and performing.

And I wonder about his living in NY. Do you think he and Cindy are still together?
In one of the NY show reports, there was something about Otis living in NY, so I'd bet Cindy is there, too. link (https://www.eaglesonlinecentral.com/forum/showthread.php?t=4864)

[Freypower]

I have started posts on this topic multiple times and have always deleted them. I was waiting for the conversation on the board to come around, and now it has!

Agree with Freypower that it probably past the "exploration" stage, since Glenn moved to NYC and Timothy bought a place and is spending time there with his family.

I think it is a perfect medium for the Eagles to be involved with - creativity, control, music, something different and challenging...what's not to like? And if it's a success - big $$$$$$$$$$$$.

I also think they could do a Laurel Canyon-themed show, with appearances of beloved songs from the period - Linda, Fleetwood Mac, etc...the story of the 70s, but Eagles songs-heavy.

Funk 50 said that, not me.

Like the Eagles need to make more money. If they have to they should be doing new material, not recycling the same old stuff over & over again. I cringe at the thought of it. I am completely opposed to it & I despair that Glenn is apparently so far into it.

[NOLA]

I really like the idea of a HC musical. It gives our guys a new medium to work with and exposes their catalogue to a different audience, so to speak. Plus, I'm a big Broadway fan. Love musicals and plays, especially in NYC, and had the pleasure of attending the Tony awards in 2004 and 2005.

However, a search of the typical show sites (Broadway.com, Broadwayworld.com, and Playbill.com) have not mentioned a thing about it since 2011, so the recent hints from Don could be a step in the right direction.

Perhaps a musical along the lines of "Jersey Boys"? One can only wish!

ETA: Just checked TalkinBroadway.com and its subsidiary, All That Chat, and nothing there, either. It must be seriously under wraps!

[GlennLover]

And I wonder about his living in NY. Do you think he and Cindy are still together?

In a picture of Glenn & Bob Seger at Bob's last concert in NY you can see Cindy in the background. I know that isn't real recent, but it's at least a couple of years after Glenn moved there.

[MaryCalifornia]

Like the Eagles need to make more money.

Do you really believe this? It's all relative. With huge money comes huge expenses. They will ALWAYS want more money. We certainly have no knowledge of their finances, investment performance or financial goals. Their desire to remain relevant and in the spotlight might be as strong a driving force as the money. You will know when they feel like they don't need to actively generate revenue - they will retire permanently. Until then, rest assured they're in it for the money.

[NightMistBlue]

And I wonder about his living in NY. Do you think he and Cindy are still together?

Can you imagine the frenzy among the Glennmaidens if he was single again? ;-) The poor guy would need to hire extra security.

[Brooke]

Can you imagine the frenzy among the Glennmaidens if he was single again? ;-) The poor guy would need to hire extra security.

For sure! :lol:

[Freypower]

Do you really believe this? It's all relative. With huge money comes huge expenses. They will ALWAYS want more money. We certainly have no knowledge of their finances, investment performance or financial goals. Their desire to remain relevant and in the spotlight might be as strong a driving force as the money. You will know when they feel like they don't need to actively generate revenue - they will retire permanently. Until then, rest assured they're in it for the money.

Sorry, MC, but I don't consider rehashing old songs into a Broadway musical to be in any way staying 'relevant'. On the contrary; I see it as creative bankruptcy where they have now got to the point where they are happier with other people singing their own songs rather than they themselves having to make some sort of effort.

As for their huge expenses all four of them are very rich men.

[MaryCalifornia]

Compared to most they are rich and compared to many they aren't. I wouldn't presume to tell any of them that they have made enough money and that they shouldn't follow artistic endeavours that they're interested in.

And, consulting on a broadway musical and creating new Eagles or solo music certainly aren't mutually exclusive. It's not one or the other. Of course we all hope for new music. The HoTE doc brought their music to a new group of fans, and a live show would do the same. It's another channel for getting their music out there, which isn't a bad thing.

[Freypower]

But why, after 40 years, do they 'need to get their music out there'? These are some of the best known songs on the planet. This isn't a young band just starting out & searching for recognition. How many people would go & see this show & then go & buy the albums & why when they have already sold so many records is that important? I am sorry, but I don't get it.

[NOLA]

IMO, a Broadway musical presents an entirely different creative outlet for them, much like playing with a new toy. It breaks up the usual album-tour routine that has dominated their 40+ year history, even though there wasn't any new material released from the band between HFO and LROOE. Still, the tours remained as the standard mode for getting their music out to the public in between those albums.

Don recently made a quip about his dissatisfaction with the role of a "human jukebox." Granted, that may have been directly related to HOTE tour fatigue, but possibly not, considering his reluctance to perform Eagles' songs on the CC tour. Also, I can't help but wonder if Glenn, Timothy, and Joe think in a similar fashion, in that touring (for now) as the Eagles has become routine. If true, a musical opens up a whole new medium in which to recycle their world-renowned catalogue.

[Freypower]

Well then, I guess I am alone in believing that this music is so well known that there is no need for it to be endlessly recycled, no matter what format it is in. :confused:

[DivineDon]

But their music is not that well known in some quarters. I have friends who are huge 'musical' junkies and they would not know one Eagles' song but I guarantee if an Eagles' musical was produced they would go to it if it was successful. I for one believe that Glenn would not be spearheading any juncture like this unless he thought firstly that it would do the songs and the band justice and secondly that it would be successful. I think we should give the whole thing the benefit of the doubt before judging it. I just hope ( and somehow I don't think it will be) that it's not another 'jukebox' musical like Mama Mia which turned me off Abba for life!!!

[UndertheWire]

The majority of Broadway musicals lose money*, so it's absurd to see this as just another way to get richer. Although it's possible they used the "exploiting the catalogue" idea to sell the idea to Henley, I'm sure they are well aware of the problems. My guess is that Glenn has developed a real interest in musical theatre, possibly starting with Linda's Pirates of Penzance and encouraged by Cindy and Taylor. At one time he was even considering treading the boards himself! The Eagles catalogue gives him a way into an interesting and different creative venture.

I'd love for Glenn to make new music, but if the alternative is sinking into retirement, I'd rather follow this.

[*maybe it's time to look more closely at that, but if I do, I'll post it in the thread for the musical]

[GlennLover]

I can't find the source, but either Don or Glenn made a comment recently that suggested that the musical would be their (Eagles) story.

[UndertheWire]

There's been some discussion of the potential musical, so I'm reviving this thread.

If you're interest in some (non-Eagles) background reading, here's a few suggestions:

1) Wikipedia explaining what a "juke box" musical is and giving a long list of such endeavors. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jukebox_musical

2) John Kenrick has an informative and entertaining website that covers everything about musicals, including the business aspects. http://www.musicals101.com/index.html

3) If you want to know the numbers, BroadwayWorld (BWW) has weekly reports on box office grosses. http://www.broadwayworld.com/grosses.cfm (I believe Playbill.com also covers the grosses).

4) When it works, the numbers can be huge. Here's the 10 top-grossing shows (only one is a jukebox musical) http://www.thefiscaltimes.com/Media/Slideshow/2014/09/24/10-Highest-Grossing-Broadway-Musicals-All-Time?page=9

5) Just because there's a rock star involved, doesn't mean it's going to make money. Just search on "Spider- man Turn Off the Dark" (Bono and The Edge) or "The Last Ship" (Sting), though these were both new material.

If you want to sit back and watch a fictional version of creating a new musical, you can try the tv series "Smash" although I remember the people who post on the BWW message board complained about it being unrealistic. Still, it shows some of the process and included many real musical theatre performers in the cast.

[DivineDon]

You said it best Willie. I completely agree here!

I didn't care for the movie Mama Mia either and can't imagine what HC would be like at all. Even on Broadway. Just weird to me.

Now the dvd is something I would love! Let's have that guys!


I hate Mama Mia - it's turned me off all of Abba's music and I used to be a big fan.

Soooo exciting about the DVD!!!

[UndertheWire]

I hate Mama Mia - it's turned me off all of Abba's music and I used to be a big fan.

Soooo exciting about the DVD!!!
Don't get too excited about the DVD - that was the HotE documentary. It's an old thread.

I managed to get through the "Mamma Mia!" film by watching it over several days. I felt the same about "Rock of Ages" (though Tom Cruise was a hoot), so maybe the telling a new story with old songs doesn't work for me.

[NightMistBlue]

Good to know that Glenn loved the Carole King show, Beautiful. I'd like to see that.

[DivineDon]

Don't get too excited about the DVD - that was the HotE documentary. It's an old thread.


You've just burst my bubble :thumbsdown:

[Funk 50]

Compared to most they are rich and compared to many they aren't. I wouldn't presume to tell any of them that they have made enough money and that they shouldn't follow artistic endeavours that they're interested in.

By anybody's terms, the Eagles are rich and the musical does just seem like another way to cash in on their 70s catalog, unless the show contains new Eagles music. If it fails, it wont affect their legacy too much and they'll still be rich.

I'm not a Paul Simon fan but I remember the discomfort I felt watching a clip of his musical. Just listening to his distinctive songs being sung by stage school types, rather than real musicians, was off-putting.

I've faith in Glenn but I wouldn't want the same thing to happen to Eagles songs. The band would be giving a green light to their songs to be murdered on a nightly basis.

[Freypower]

Don't get too excited about the DVD - that was the HotE documentary. It's an old thread.

I managed to get through the "Mamma Mia!" film by watching it over several days. I felt the same about "Rock of Ages" (though Tom Cruise was a hoot), so maybe the telling a new story with old songs doesn't work for me.

It doesn't work for me either, and that's why I don't want it to happen. I went to see Mamma Mia (the musical) & I thought I had never seen anything more contrived. It did not turn me off Abba, however, as I love some of their songs too much. However, I think this is a significant point; it could turn people off the Eagles, especially if it is seen as yet another money-grubbing exercise.

As you mentioned The Last Ship - Sting should have premiered that in his home town of Newcastle where it is set & he would have received the sort of response he expected (he did play it there eventually). I feel somewhat part of it because my husband comes from the area & I think the songs are brilliant but they would have meant virtually nothing to Americans.

I think of Elton John & Phil Collins who have written music for Broadway/Disney musicals. They both won Oscars. On the plus side they were new songs. They were not anywhere near the standard of those artists' earlier material.

What we seem to be talking about here is the Eagles not even bothering to write any new songs for this. Of course if they DID write new songs, wouldn't you prefer them to be performed by the Eagles themselves in concert rather than as some artificial storyline?

[UndertheWire]

I'm more in favour of the biomusical - a bunch of long-haired, skinny young men hanging around the bar, singing harmony as they down their beers.

Maybe Glenn will have time to think it all out as he recovers from surgery.

[Freypower]

So you want to have people playing the Eagles singing Eagles songs to tell the band's story.

I would be happy to hear any suggestions about which Eagles songs would be used, and sung by which 'Eagle', to tell their story. I don't think their songs are autobiographical enough. I assume we are only talking about the 70s here. Which songs could be used to dramatise the breakup?

I guess I should apologise for being such a wet blanket but given the awful news I have just read, I really have even less time for this than previously.

[Glennsallnighter]

It certainly won't be happening soon :thumbsdown:

[EasilyTaken]

That would be wrong.

So very, very wrong.

[UndertheWire]

"Heartache Tonight" for the the Cranston benefit and "Best of My Love" for when Glenn tells Don he wants out? I can feel your cringe from here! I've no idea how it would work. I'm just going with the thought that I wish I'd seen them perform when they were young.

With the news on Glenn's health, I just hope he gets well soon and finds enough to entertain him during his convalescence.

[MaryCalifornia]

Now this is interesting, thinking that Broadway-caliber singers would murder Eagles songs. It's not American Idol - these are some of the technically best singers in the world, who would sound like the guys did when they were in their 20s. The Broadway singers are better, stronger singers with more range than any of the current 4 Eagles. They won't murder the songs, it's just that we don't like to hear others singing those songs, it would be like a tribute band (which some people do enjoy).

Maybe Glenn is writing all new songs for the musical!!

[UndertheWire]

The difference is that with musical theatre, they have to project expression and emotion to the back of the theatre and the words have to be enunciated well so they can be understood. There was a time when performers would act a little then stop and sing, but these days the aim is for a seamless transition from book to song and try to make it seem natural that someone would just start singing.

[maryc2130]

There are many different ways to do a musical. I saw the one based on Billy Joel's music, Movin' Out, which was focused more on dance, as it was developed by Twyla Tharp. It had a weak storyline based on some of the characters from Billy's music (Brenda and Eddie from "Scenes from an Italian Restaurant" and Anthony from "Movin' Out" (Anthony's Song). The music was provided by piano/orchestra/vocals that were separate from the action itself. It was interesting, and as a Billy Joel fan, I'm glad I saw it, but overall, I'd rather see a concert. In that case, although I'm sure Billy had some say in it, it was a vehicle for his music developed by others.

I would think Don and Glenn would want more say into an Eagles musical. I'd be curious to see what the final product would be.

[UndertheWire]

Just to keep things tidy, here's Don Henley on the subject.


Though his fall tour supporting “Cass County” is relatively short, Henley plans to keep the campaign going in 2016, especially now that the Eagles plan to take “a pretty long hiatus” — although during that time the group will also be investigating the feasibility of an Eagles stage musical, which the group’s Glenn Frey, a Royal Oak native, is taking a lead role on developing.

“I guess that’s what you do at this point of your career,” Henley says. “The documentary was so successful we decided we might have some success with a musical theater piece, the centerpiece of which would be ‘Hotel California,’ but the entire catalog would be involved in some way.

“But that’s a tricky business, just what we’ve learned about it in the past two years. I mean, you can really go wrong with that, so we’re gonna do a lot of homework before we go down that road, and it may come to fruition and it may not. That’s just something we’re talking about and thinking about.”
http://www.theoaklandpress.com/article/20151105/ENTERTAINMENT/151109736


(I'm not for the musical but I'm not set against it. I'm trying to keep an open mind and at a time when news is scarce, it's something to look at)

[Freypower]

Well then, I will also keep an open mind, but where I am it's something I will never see so it will be hard to be emotionally invested in it (if it succeeds, that is). I do think those two songs you suggested would work. There may have to be some flexibility over which character sings which song, though. Also wouldn't each band member have a 'spotlight'? I suppose the Felder character could sing Good Day In Hell, as that is what he claims the band was like when he joined. The point is the singers don't have to sound like the actual Eagles, I guess.

That's IF it's the story of the band. I still think it's more likely to be a Mamma Mia type story.

[Funk 50]

Good shout Freypower, Good Day In Hell does seem to define Felder's time with the band.

[sodascouts]

True. BTW, I moved the musical posts from the other thread into this one just to keep it all organized.

I'll keep an open mind regarding the musical but as Don himself admits, such projects are hard to pull off in a way that doesn't suck. We just have to trust their discretion, I guess.

[UndertheWire]

Someone has already produced a Hotel California musical which was presented in August at a festival. There's no suggestion that this is the one Glenn's working on, but presumably he knows about it. It's quite interesting. She seems to be quite unaware that the band is already considering such a musical.

http://wamc.org/post/hotel-california-musical#stream/0

[NOLA]

According to the FB page for that musical, the production was withdrawn from the festival and the page is scheduled to be removed from the site.

Possibly due to copyright infringement? Who knows! No reason was given on the page.

[UndertheWire]

According to the FB page for that musical, the production was withdrawn from the festival and the page is scheduled to be removed from the site.

Possibly due to copyright infringement? Who knows! No reason was given on the page.
That must have been disappointing for the performers but at least they got the attention of Messrs Frey, Henley and Azoff.

[NightMistBlue]

Which songs could be used to dramatise the breakup?

After the Thrill is Gone and Wasted Time.

[Freypower]

After the Thrill is Gone and Wasted Time.

Yes, but the titles alone aren't enough. The lyrics have to fit the theme. ATTIG does, I guess, but WT would have to be adapted somewhat to get rid of the parts about the woman & her relationship problems. Maybe WITW would work (I think if their entire discography is to be used there has to be some flexibility about using songs; the important thing is to use them to tell the story & strict chornological order may not work).

However, I maintain we should be wary of thinking this would tell the story of the band. No matter how popular the Eagles are I think this approach would have a limited audience. The people who go to musicals are generally not rock concert audiences.

[NightMistBlue]

True, we don't know. Though I can't imagine that Don H. in particular would like to see a storyline imposed on the enduring mystery of Hotel California. He won't even say what it's about beyond the "journey from innocence to experience."

[Jonny Come Lately]

However, I maintain we should be wary of thinking this would tell the story of the band. No matter how popular the Eagles are I think this approach would have a limited audience. The people who go to musicals are generally not rock concert audiences.

FP, I totally agree with you there. I'll give you an example of this, my Dad is definitely more in the rock concert audience category. He really doesn't like musicals at all with maybe one or two exceptions, whereas if I'm playing, say, Lynyrd Skynyrd he'll tell me about how he went to see them back in the 1970s. I think I'm the same - given a choice between an Eagles musical or going to see an Eagles tribute band, I'd far rather go and see the tribute band with talented musicians who love the band and their music.

This analogy may be a bit of an odd one to use but I think it's a bit like the situation in the UK with the beloved children's character Thomas The Tank Engine. There are two main ways that young children can 'meet' Thomas in the UK. One is by going to the officially licensed Thomas Land theme park, which has an outwardly perfect looking replica of the TV character, but it has never had to pull a proper train in its life and isn't actually even a steam engine (in fact it's diesel powered), the other involves going to a preserved railway where you can ride a passenger train behind a Thomas that may not look quite as perfect, but which is a real working steam engine with bags of character, run by knowledgeable and enthusiastic volunteers. I really don't mind if other people disagree, but if I had young children, I know which one I'd choose to take them to.

[UndertheWire]

From 2012 (it may be referenced earlier in the thread, but only as a link):


Frey and his songwriting buddy Don Henley are working with producer Rita Wilson on a Broadway musical incorporating their music, called Hotel California.
They have enlisted director Michael Mayer, famed for the rock musicals Spring Awakening and Green Day's American Idiot, and the script is currently being polished. The only sure thing is that the musical will feature wall-to-wall Eagles hits.
"That's the point and it's not just the songs from Hotel California," Frey says. "One of those Nights, Desperado, Lyin' Eyes, The King of Hollywood, Witchy Woman - there's so many other songs that fit into what happens at the hotel . . . hopefully we'll have something together for 2014."
https://au.news.yahoo.com/thewest/entertainment/a/15142377/hours-of-favourites/

[Topkat]

Does he mean Rita Wilson, Tom Hanks wife? I think she is a producer.
Anyway, 2014 has past & 2015 is almost over, so I can see they aren't in any rush about doing this show. My feeling is that it won't be happening for at least another year.

Look how long it took Don to get his album out? They are really meticulous about what they do & if it has their names on it, you can bet it's going to be a long time in the making. Not holding my breath, just hope I live to see it!

[GlennLover]

Yes, he does mean Tom Hanks, wife. Their kids went to the same school & Glenn & Cindy have apparently remained friends with Tom & Rita.

[SoaringRockyMountainWay]

My local classic rock radio station announced this morning that the musical was being performed at some theater I've never heard of on December 19th. It said to go to hotelcal.com for tickets so I went there but the website was about an Eagles tribute band and it had nothing to do with the musical. So I'm really confused about this whole thing.

[UndertheWire]

Topkat brought this up in another thread. Who knows if this will go any further now that it doesn't have Glenn to push it through.

A little more information came out recently.

Seger: The last time I saw him was July 24th... Months earlier, he came to see my show at Madison Square Garden. He was with Robert Wuhl and they were working on a Broadway play together. I don't know if it was going to be a musical — he didn't say. But he wanted to call it Hotel California. He was going to do it here in Ann Arbor, work it up with the theater company here. He said, "I'll see you in the fall."
Seger's MSG shown was in Dec 2014.

Hard to call this one. It sound like it could have been fairly advanced. I understand Robert Wuhl was a friend of Glenn's but he also has Broadway credits.

[Ive always been a dreamer]

Yeah I agree, UTW. I imagine everything is probably on hold in Eagle world for now as they still mourn Glenn's loss. I feel sure that Don, Joe, Tim, and Irving will regroup at some point later this year and try to sort through all of this and figure out where they go from here. Oh golly, it makes me so sad to even think about it right now, so my brain can't even begin to grasp what it must be like for them.

[MaryCalifornia]

Yes, hard to call. Like everything else, it probably comes down to money - how much investors have ponied up so far, and the terms of those investments.

If this show was Glenn's baby and he was the driving force, I don't see it happening now. The other guys won't pick up the reins. If, however, one or more of the guys were very involved, and the current money and future monies will still flow without Glenn's involvement, maybe?

[Topkat]

Like I said in the other thread, I think the demand for this to go ahead will be bigger than ever in light of the loss of Glenn.
If it was Glenn's project, I think that Don will pick it up in honor of Glenn.

I do think there is a demand for rock musicals these days. The biggest shows feature the life of Carol King, School of Rock, Rock of Ages, Jersey Boys & now Gloria Estefan. I do think there is a huge audience for an Eagles story, or a Hotel California, whatever that may be about.

I for one, hope it develops. If Don had any input & I'm sure he did, I think he will carry on Glenn's project.

[buffyfan145]

I saw this mentioned in one of the threads in Glenn's section and I had no idea this was going on. I really hope they do still go through with it. I loved "Jersey Boys" so much. I saw the movie when it came out almost two years ago and I already loved Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, but the cast was just amazing. I had no idea too how large the "Jersey Boys" fandom is till then and I've met some great people through it and became a fan of the actors in it. Even the Broadway and Vegas touring group have their own fans and it's taken on a life of it's own, including one of the casts forming their own band. I saw in a Google search that Don confirmed he was involved with it back in November but interesting to see those articles back from 2012. Musicals do take years to get developed and usually longer than a film or tv series. I've long wanted an Eagles biopic but a Broadway musical would be amazing and would be a great thing to honor Glenn as this sounds like it was his idea originally. :)

[OutlawManNJ]

The fact that Hotel California's meaning has been debated by people (Demonic etc) yet shrugged off , laughed off (the idea that its demonic) by Eagle members makes for a complicated project.

The song may be best left alone as is with everyone having their own take on it. A Musical if not well done could tarnish it. If done well, than thats another story.

[buffyfan145]

From the articles linked in here it sounded more like it was going to be a "Jersey Boys" style format and tell a portion of the Eagles history like a biopic but set during the recording of that album but also include songs from before and after that album as well to help tell whatever story was in the script about the guys. "Jersey Boys" however tells the entire story of The Four Seasons from their creation to their Hall of Fame inductions, which I feel with the Eagles full story would work better as a miniseries but that's my opinion.

[Freypower]

From the articles linked in here it sounded more like it was going to be a "Jersey Boys" style format and tell a portion of the Eagles history like a biopic but set during the recording of that album but also include songs from before and after that album as well to help tell whatever story was in the script about the guys. "Jersey Boys" however tells the entire story of The Four Seasons from their creation to their Hall of Fame inductions, which I feel with the Eagles full story would work better as a miniseries but that's my opinion.

We don't know what format it was going to take. We have no information either way. I think it is far more likely to have been a fictitious story set inside the Hotel California using Eagles songs.

[buffyfan145]

Gotcha. I saw other articles including one from my classic rock radio station saying differently but maybe they were just guessing at it with the other Broadway shows out now about bands.