Backup Band and Additional Musicians

[Freypower]

I saw him with dh in 2006 at the borgata in new jersey as part of the band
Only ones not w him on that show was gf and tbs

That was several years after Storytellers.

If it was a solo show, JW wasn't there either.

[thelastresort]

Another question if y'all don't mind :razz: During the current rendition of Saturday Night, at the start of the second verse an accordion starts; who would play this? I think Michael Thompson did it for Tequila Sunrise back in Farewell 1 so I'm guessing it's him? (It could be a keyboard in all honesty, the audio ain't brilliant on the videos I've seen.)

[StephUK]

shun - I can't remember if Steuart was playing with Don on the VH1 Storytellers or not because I've only seen it once or twice and that was several years ago. Maybe someone else here can answer that.

But, on Inside Job, I believe Steuart played on one or two songs on the CD, but he was not in the band for the taping of the DVD. I think Will and Michael Thompson were the only members of the Eagles' current backup band that appeared on the DVD. I don't know if he was part of Don's Inside Job touring band or not.

So, bottom line is, I guess I wasn't that much help to you. Sorry. :unimpressed:

I don't think Steuart was on VH1 Storytellers either. Nor was Michael Thompson. Will was on 'piano duties' and there was another keyboard player.

[shunlvswx]

I think it wasn't Steuart. I was watching a DVD where it had Don's performance on Saturday Night Live from I think '89 or '90 and it was the same guy, but he had long hair. So he's been in Don's band since The End of the Innocence days. I don't think he's in Don's band today.

[Freypower]

I think that previous keyboards player may have been Timothy Drury, who was in the Eagles' backing band for the HFO tour. I can't answer TLR's question because I haven't heard the current version of Saturday Night, but Michael Thompson is usually a good bet for these extra instruments.

[chilipepper]

I think it wasn't Steuart. I was watching a DVD where it had Don's performance on Saturday Night Live from I think '89 or '90 and it was the same guy, but he had long hair. So he's been in Don's band since The End of the Innocence days. I don't think he's in Don's band today.

Was it John Corey?

[MaryCalifornia]

Another question if y'all don't mind :razz: During the current rendition of Saturday Night, at the start of the second verse an accordion starts; who would play this? I think Michael Thompson did it for Tequila Sunrise back in Farewell 1 so I'm guessing it's him? (It could be a keyboard in all honesty, the audio ain't brilliant on the videos I've seen.)

We know there is a mandolin from somewhere offstage on Saturday Night - there's been some speculation it may be Bernie playing it, but who knows. Is there another instrument from offstage as well?

[shunlvswx]

Was it John Corey?

No. It wasn't John.

[thelastresort]

I've been looking through some of the HOTE concert videos on YouTube and was wondering, when does Richard FW Davis actually play the keyboard in front of him? :lol: He always seems to be doing some form of percussion! (I'm not criticising him for this btw, I'm genuinely curious.)

[Freypower]

I've been looking through some of the HOTE concert videos on YouTube and was wondering, when does Richard FW Davis actually play the keyboard in front of him? :lol: He always seems to be doing some form of percussion! (I'm not criticising him for this btw, I'm genuinely curious.)

TLR, I just found a photo of Joe in Prettymaid's birthday thread where Richard is in the background facing his keyboard! :laugh:

https://eaglesonlinecentral.com/forum/showthread.php?p=267475#post267475

[shunlvswx]

Thanks to FP, the mystery has been solved. That was Frank Simes that I thought was Steuart. He and John Corey were in Don's solo band at the same time during the EOTI days and I guess John left before IJ tour.

Thanks for the name, FP.

[shunlvswx]

I read on another board that Steuart is touring with Rodney Crowell while the Eagles are off. I didn't know he was also in Rodney's band back in the day. I also found his name in the credits of Vince Gill's album I Still Believe In You and another one I don't remember at the top of my head.

So I did a little research and found Steuart in a few of Rodney's videos. Is that him at the .55 second mark.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SPi6fW8KBW4

[Brooke]

Sure does look like him, shun. Good work!

[shunlvswx]

Thanks, Brooke.

I look at other videos and its definitely him. Here's a most recent one from this month and then the second one is another video you can see him more in.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ojPRMy7alQw

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0uRs1h4Tetw

[WalshFan88]

Definitely Stu. He was a Nashville session guy for many years.... But he played for Crowell for a long time.

[shunlvswx]

Yeah. I read he was a session player and saw who he worked with. Like I said earlier, it was cool to see his name on Vince Gill's I Still Believe in You album. That's one of my favorite albums of his.

I got Steuart right this time. LOL I had got him and Frank Simes mixed up, but it looks like Steuart had short hair in the 80s and 90s compare to Frank who had long hair during that time.

I guess

[Ive always been a dreamer]

This is to cheer up Steph ...

http://i216.photobucket.com/albums/cc72/sonnetlvii/DH%20Atlantic%20City%20Nov%202009/WillDH2009AtlanticCity190.jpg

Hope things are looking up for you soon, Steph!

[StephUK]

Thanks Dreamer.:thumbsup: that works for me :):)

[Ive always been a dreamer]

Great! I figured it would, Steph. :thumbsup:

[StephUK]

Will Hollis getting some great face time in this video

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nfvl33jsG2k

I like :thumbsup: especially the bit where Will says something to someone across the stage(leaning away from his microphone, of course) and then he laughs at their reply. Cute:inlove:

[StephUK]

It's 4:35am on 6 January here in the UK, so ...................


https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7544/16209389821_f3cb736d5e_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/qGnmSi)



Thanks for your wonderful keyboards and backing vocals at the Eagles shows. Have a very Happy Birthday.
God Bless. Love from Steph, as always, your No:1 fan in England :bow:

[sodascouts]

Yes, happy birthday to him!

[Ive always been a dreamer]

HAPPY BIRTHDAY WILL!

Hope you are having a wonderful birthday. Rest up before it's time to go "Down Unda". :thumbsup:

[StephUK]

You didn't think I'd forget, did you?

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1443/24209397375_729ccca2ca_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/CTiup2)HAPPY BIRTHDAY WILL 2016 (https://flic.kr/p/CTiup2) by stephclark62 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/16004674@N04/), on Flickr

[LuvTim]

Very nice, Steph.

Wishing Will a very happy birthday :smile:

[Brooke]

Steph, love it! And welcome back!

Happy Birthday to Will, too! :birthday:

[AlreadyGone95]

Very cool, Steph. Happy birthday to Will! :birthday:

[Freypower]

Of course not, Steph. Happy birthday Will!

[Glennsallnighter]

Happy Birthday to Will!!

[NOLA]

Thank you, Steph. I hope that Will had a wonderful birthday! 🎂🎉

[Ive always been a dreamer]

Nice Steph! And ...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY WILL!!!

Sorry to be a date late, but I hope it was a good one and all your birthday wishes came true!

[sodascouts]

I know this is horrifically late, but...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY WILL!

[sad-cafe]

has Steuart or any of the others said anything? I imagine they are feeling just has horrible

[UndertheWire]

Back in 2013, Scott Crago told how he came to join the Eagles - it was through Stevie Nicks!
http://waylandstudentpress.com/34194/articles/ww-13-crago-speaks-about-being-an-eagles-drummer/

Also a nice video interview where he talks about fitting in with the Eagles, putting together a kit that suits Don and him and we also meet the drum tech.
http://vicfirth.com/artist-spotlight-scott-crago/

[Ive always been a dreamer]

Thanks UTW. Scott is such a sweetie, isn't he.

[sodascouts]

Back in 2013, Scott Crago told how he came to join the Eagles - it was through Stevie Nicks!
http://waylandstudentpress.com/34194/articles/ww-13-crago-speaks-about-being-an-eagles-drummer/

Also a nice video interview where he talks about fitting in with the Eagles, putting together a kit that suits Don and him and we also meet the drum tech.
http://vicfirth.com/artist-spotlight-scott-crago/

Cool!

[shunlvswx]

Happy Birthday to Scott Crago. A faithful member and the longest standing member of the backup band (also been part of Don's solo band for many years too) for 22 years. Still with the band when the guys got new musicians after the turn of the century.

Wikipedia says he turned 53 today.

[LuvTim]

Happy Birthday, :birthday: Scott Crago!:drummer:

[AlreadyGone95]

Happy birthday, Scott! :birthday:

[Ive always been a dreamer]

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SCOTT!!!

Sorry to be a date late, but I hope it was a good one and all your birthday wishes came true!

And thanks for posting Scott's birth date, shun. It would be great to have the dates of all the backup band members - anyone have dates for Steuart and Michael Thompson?

[Freypower]

According to Wikipedia:

Steuart: June 24, 1952
Michael: I could find nothing.

[shunlvswx]

I wonder how old Will is? He's probably close to Scott's age or younger.

I didn't know Steuart was that old. He really doesn't like he's in his mid 60s.

[StephUK]

Still don't know exactly how old Will is. Seems he likes to keep his age a secret. Some things lead me to believe he is older than Scott by a few years. Whatever, he looks good to me!

[thelastresort]

I didn't want to derail the thread that got me thinking of this, so I'll ask this here. Was their performance at the Grammy Awards in memory of Glenn the first since the Long Run era not to feature a second drummer / percussionist with Don? Every song I have seen them play in footage since their reunion has always had Scott doing something, no matter how minimal, when Don is drumming - obviously the reverse is not true as often when Don went up front Scott played alone. They also hired Joe Vitale for the Long Run tour, but I'm going to assume he didn't play drums or percussion on every song. Scott was even present at their RRHOF introduction if I remember correctly.

[Funk 50]

I didn't want to derail the thread that got me thinking of this, so I'll ask this here. Was their performance at the Grammy Awards in memory of Glenn the first since the Long Run era not to feature a second drummer / percussionist with Don? Every song I have seen them play in footage since their reunion has always had Scott doing something, no matter how minimal, when Don is drumming - obviously the reverse is not true as often when Don went up front Scott played alone. They also hired Joe Vitale for the Long Run tour, but I'm going to assume he didn't play drums or percussion on every song. Scott was even present at their RRHOF introduction if I remember correctly.

You've forgotten HOTE, Witchy Woman. What a thrill that was! and upside down guitar during Peaceful Easy Feeling :grin:. He may have got some invisible help during that one.

Joe Vitale's book Backstage Pass has a photo of his The Long Run Tour set list which includes the instrument he's required to play. It's mostly drums but not exclusively. He played a bit of keyboards and flute in the middle of Turn To Stone of course.

Don's played drums live, for Guns and Roses and with Bruce Springsteen and Sting, as part of a rock royalty trio, outside the Eagles too. :bye:

[thelastresort]

You've forgotten HOTE, Witchy Woman. What a thrill that was! and upside down guitar during Peaceful Easy Feeling :grin:. He may have got some invisible help during that one.

Joe Vitale's book Backstage Pass has a photo of his The Long Run Tour set list which includes the instrument he's required to play. It's mostly drums but not exclusively. He played a bit of keyboards and flute in the middle of Turn To Stone of course.

Don's played drums live, for Guns and Roses and with Bruce Springsteen and Sting, as part of a rock royalty trio, outside the Eagles too. :bye:

I did forget Witchy Woman! I too believe he had some help on PEF, the little percussion intro to it sounded way too loud to come from just tapping your fingers on the back of a guitar.

I'll have to buy that Joe Vitale book, always loved his work with Joe (I've always been slightly annoyed he wasn't invited back in 1994, I've nothing against Scott however) and I'd love to read about what he did with the Eagles.

There was a reason I did specify his drumming in the Eagles ;) I saw the video in the other thread of him drumming for Guns n' Roses.

[travlnman2]

Speaking of Guns N Roses anyone else besides me catch the North American Tour?

[Delilah]

Speaking of Guns N Roses anyone else besides me catch the North American Tour?

They were in my area earlier this month but we didn't bother getting tix. After seeing some of the YouTube videos, I'm wondering if maybe we missed out. Axl seemed in fine form.

[UndertheWire]

In the Long Run Survivor thread, the subject of sax players came up. On the album, the sax was played by David Sanborn and he played on some live dates (eg March 1980 in LA). However, for much of the tour, the sax player was Phil Kenzie. A few years ago, he gave interviews to promote a new album and he likes to talk.

In this one, he's asked about his favourite tour.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gv6J_DZqbGI

In this, he talks about how he got the call to tour with the Eagles, and playing with Poco, starting around 14:15:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-9QoJlQ1WfQ

He talks about the Cranston benefit, around 20 minutes into this interview.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vV0971jjK_Y

[shunlvswx]

It looks like Scott is going to be busy for the next few months. He'll be touring with Stevie. Waddy posted on facebook the people who are part of Stevie's touring band and Scott's name was one of them.

I guess that was Scott I saw on drums on that late show episode a week ago. I knew I wasn't seeing things.

[Ive always been a dreamer]

Thanks so much for the heads up, shun. I'm glad to see Scott is keeping busy.

[shunlvswx]

No problem. I had posted a video of Stevie singing Leather and Lace solo than with another person and I was like that looks like Scott and I guess it was.

I wonder what the other guys will be doring until December 31st. I think Stevie tours until the middle of December. So that means Scott will have a little break until the New Year's show. Steuart will probably be touring with Rodney. The girls will be busy doing some dates.

[StephUK]

https://c2.staticflickr.com/1/677/32032661841_02a8e9ff2b_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/QNBLn8)HAPPY BIRTHDAY WILL 2017 (https://flic.kr/p/QNBLn8) by stephclark62 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/16004674@N04/), on Flickr

[sodascouts]

Happy birthday, Will!

[Brooke]

Happy belated birthday to Will! :birthday:

[shunlvswx]

Happy Belated Birthday to Will. I guess to see him and all the guys this weekend. Of course not in person, but you know what I mean.

[shunlvswx]

Happy 65th Birthday to Steuart. I can't believe he's that old. He doesn't look 65.

[maryc2130]

I love Steuart, and he definitely seems younger than 65. Happy Birthday!

[Dawn]

https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/cf/1f/94/cf1f94430fc292bdff662a26b6afaa94.jpg

Happy Belated Birthday to the very talented, hard working, handsome and genuinely sweet Steuart Smith!

[StephUK]

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4683/25675867808_ec384d8bff_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/F7TwY1)Happy Birthday Will 2018a (https://flic.kr/p/F7TwY1) by stephclark62 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/16004674@N04/), on Flickr

[groupie2686]

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4683/25675867808_ec384d8bff_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/F7TwY1)Happy Birthday Will 2018a (https://flic.kr/p/F7TwY1) by stephclark62 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/16004674@N04/), on Flickr

Happy birthday Will Hollis! I lived in Rochester, New York for almost 3 years and still have family there, so I always get a kick out of it when I watch the Melbourne DVD and Glenn introduces Will Hollis from Rochester, New York.

[MaryCalifornia]

Erica Swindell is making fun of Scott Crago’s crocs on her Instagram LOL, and yesterday she showed Will Hollis eating in a van. I am thankful for glimpses of the backing band!

[shunlvswx]

She also had a video of Michael Thompson dancing. It was soo funny.

I love watching the videos Erica posted. It gives us a glimpse of what goes on behind the scene on and off stage. I think I saw the back of Deacon's head in one of her videos.

[shunlvswx]

Erica Swindell is making fun of Scott Crago’s crocs on her Instagram LOL, and yesterday she showed Will Hollis eating in a van. I am thankful for glimpses of the backing band!

That was funny with Will. She had some kind of techno music playing. I wonder where she got that clip from. I've seen that in a few videos from other Instagram account.

She also found a poster of Don at a venue they were playing. I can't remembered where.

[shunlvswx]

We can another added birthdate to our list.

Per Erica's Instagram video from last night(which had Will, Scotty, Michael, and a few others in there), either today or yesterday was Michael Thompson's birthday. So its either the 11th or he shares a birthday with Vince (which is today).

Either way. Happy Birthday to Michael. I had the privilege of meeting him and Scott after the show in Austin in 2017. I hate I didn't get to talk to him more, but I'm glad to talk to Scott.

[Ive always been a dreamer]

Happy birthday to Michael. Hope it was a good one.

[sodascouts]

Happy birthday, Michael! He's a real sweetheart.

[StephUK]

Erica Swindell is making fun of Scott Crago’s crocs on her Instagram LOL, and yesterday she showed Will Hollis eating in a van. I am thankful for glimpses of the backing band!

I can't see these on her instagram. Can you post me the link please?

[shunlvswx]

The live video clips are gone. They usually don't stay too long up on Instagram. I think 24 hours.

Their probably be another video pop up because it looks like they all on one bus. Erica always get him when he's eating. lol

[shunlvswx]

I was watching a clip of the guys singing Tequila Sunrise on CNN back in 1999 and I swore I thought I saw Will in the back on the keys.

I wonder if Will was part of the backing band during the Millennium show before he was part of Don's backing band in a year later?

Here's the video. His face is kinda blurry, but it looks like him.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ajbhtiWi0b8

[Freypower]

I was watching a clip of the guys singing Tequila Sunrise on CNN back in 1999 and I swore I thought I saw Will in the back on the keys.

I wonder if Will was part of the backing band during the Millennium show before he was part of Don's backing band in a year later?

Here's the video. His face is kinda blurry, but it looks like him.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ajbhtiWi0b8


Vaguely, but perhaps at that stage it may still have been Timothy Drury? Or John Corey? I don't actually know who was in the backing band for those shows.

[shunlvswx]

Happy Birthday to Erica Swindell.

[shunlvswx]

Happy Belated 66th Birthday to Steuart Smith yesterday.

[StephUK]

I was watching a clip of the guys singing Tequila Sunrise on CNN back in 1999 and I swore I thought I saw Will in the back on the keys.

I wonder if Will was part of the backing band during the Millennium show before he was part of Don's backing band in a year later?

Here's the video. His face is kinda blurry, but it looks like him.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ajbhtiWi0b8

I didn't think Will was playing at this show, but looking at this video I agree it does look a bit like him.

In an effort to find out who it is, I looked at Timothy Drury's website and found he has a link where you can send him a message. So I asked him if he played keyboards for the Eagles Millennium shows, and he replied by email that it was indeed him who played for these shows (there were 2 in Las Vegas as 'warm-ups' before the New Years Eve one in LA). So the question is answered.

[sodascouts]

Thanks for the detective work!

[takeiteasy]

https://i.pinimg.com/236x/40/d7/42/40d742390a6aaaed991320e0d22842c2.jpg For Steuart Smith's fans :rockguitar:

[StephUK]

:birthday: A belated Happy Birthday to Will Hollis (6 Jan).


(I'm so ashamed of myself for not posting this on the right day)

[Glennsallnighter]

Yes, Happy Birthday Will!

[groupie2686]

Happy birthday Will Hollis!

I lived in Rochester, NY for 3 years and still have family there, so I scream at my tv every time I watch the Melbourne concert and Glenn introduces Will Hollis from Rochester, NY! Not bad company for a native Rochesterian ;)

[shunlvswx]

Happy Belated Birthday to Will.

[Ive always been a dreamer]

Well I'm terribly late, but I'd like to also wish Will a happy belated birthday. Hope it was a great day and :cheers: to many more.

[Tony Trout]

I've been wanting to ask this but never thought to bring it up:

What was Will's reasoning for leaving?

[Ive always been a dreamer]

I wasn't aware that Will had left the band, so this is news to me.

[shunlvswx]

I've been wanting to ask this but never thought to bring it up:

What was Will's reasoning for leaving?

Are you talking about Don’s son or Will Hollis? If you talking about Don’s son, he started to college last fall. He was only touring for the spring and summer dates before he went to college .

[shunlvswx]

I saw some pictures from the shows in New Zealand. Will Hollis is still in the band. SO I'm guessing you were talking about Will Henley. You didn't clarify which Will you were talking about.

[shunlvswx]

Happy Belated Birthday to Michael Thompson. It was either the 11th or the 12th. I still don't know which date it was, but it was one of those days.

[Ive always been a dreamer]

Happy belated birthday to Michael. Hope it was a great day and :cheers: to many more.

[shunlvswx]

Happy Birthday to Steuart.

[Ive always been a dreamer]

As usual - I'm very late to the party, but hope Steuart had a wonderful birthday!

[shunlvswx]

Happy 56th Birthday to Scott.

[Ive always been a dreamer]

Happy belated birthday to Scott Crago. Hope it was a good one.

[sodascouts]

Happy 56th Birthday to Scott.

Is he 56? Time flies!

[shunlvswx]

Happy Belated Birthday to Michael Thompson.

Also Erica Swindell got engaged yesterday. She just posted on her Instagram. He's a cute guy. He's also a musician.

[Delilah]

Didn’t see this posted anywhere (ok I didn’t exactly search high and low :mrgreen:). This is a nice article about the guys who back the band members at concerts and on some of their albums. Discussed are John Corey, Scott Crago, Steuart Smith, Michael Thompson and Will Hollis.


Read More: Eagles Touring Members: The Band Behind the Band (https://ultimateclassicrock.com/eagles-touring-members/?utm_source=tsmclip&utm_medium=referral) by Corey Irwin, Ultimate Classic Rock, July 11, 2020 (https://ultimateclassicrock.com/eagles-touring-members/)

[Ive always been a dreamer]

Thanks Delilah - That article has been posted before, but it never hurts to see things again.

I remember the article because the picture they posted of Michael Thompson is not him.

[sodascouts]

Poor Michael Thompson! His name is just too common!

[Scamp]

I think Stuart Smith is a great guitar player and works well with Joe, in fact he appears with Joe on his Vet's Aid concerts. Joe has been bring Stuart into his songs more and more. They play a lot of solo parts together but in harmony. It's easy to recognize Stuart in pictures because he uses a thumb pick which puts his right hand in a different position than those who use a regular pick. Stuart did a lot of guitar playing on the LROE album in fact Joe said that he did very little guitar playing and played mostly piano, keyboard and organ laying just solo parts and such.
I have a question about Stuart. Has anybody heard him sing? I've looked for YouTube with him singing, even backup, and can't find anything. expect guitar of course. He's played with so many others but just no singing. Just wondering what he sounds like and where he fits in the Eagles harmony. I noticed in the Forum Concert he didn't sing as much. Usually he sings on most all the songs, in fact Joe seemed to sing more than Stuart.
I love him and him and Joe on the talk box in "Those Shoes" I wish Joe would take Stuart on tour with him they look like they really like playing together. Joe really likes having another player to bounce off of. They complement each other so well.
I going to take some flack for this but I think Stuart is just as good if not better than Don. While Don is a great guitar player, he songs he writes seemed to involve guitar solos as the primary and singing as the secondary. Stuart, like Joe, is a musician who plays guitar. He understands how a band works and everybody has different part to play in the band.

[shunlvswx]

This year marks Will, Steuart, and Michael's 20th Anniversary of playing with the Eagles.

[thebagels]

Regarding Steuart's singing, I actually think he sings high vocals. The reason is because on this part in every Eagles arrangement of TITTL I've heard, the lower vocals usually drop out, but the higher vocals will harmonize "to the limit." Steaurt sings during this part.

https://youtu.be/ZJ7s5CQli44?t=191

Also, during SBR at the line "running like a child," there is a unison lead that is very high. Steuart sings during this part, but I don't hear another harmony.

https://youtu.be/SEUqyuxT1Qk?t=121

Steuart also sings the tenor part above Rodney Crowell when they perform together.

https://youtu.be/RjlyGATCyaE?t=650

I suspect that most of the harmonies are doubled by the backing musicians at this point. Sometimes I wonder if Joe is even on mic during harmonies based on the fact that Joe had a very unique way of singing harmony in the 1970s, but now I can't hear him sing at all.

[Scamp]

Thanks I know Joe sings the lower harmony. I have noticed when he sings with other artist he drops down and loses his rock voice, as I call it. When he sings lower he really sounds good but I noticed he loses his unique sound.
Well lets hope they can get out on the road soon, they're not getting any younger. Even Don says his voice is going so in someways the layoff may have helped. I haven't really heard any of the others singing during the layoff, Joe has done a couple things with Ringo.

[Delilah]

I have a question about Stuart. Has anybody heard him sing? I've looked for YouTube with him singing, even backup, and can't find anything. expect guitar of course. He's played with so many others but just no singing. Just wondering what he sounds like and where he fits in the Eagles harmony. I noticed in the Forum Concert he didn't sing as much. Usually he sings on most all the songs, in fact Joe seemed to sing more than Stuart.
I love him and him and Joe on the talk box in "Those Shoes" I wish Joe would take Stuart on tour with him they look like they really like playing together. Joe really likes having another player to bounce off of. They complement each other so well.


I going to take some flack for this but I think Stuart is just as good if not better than Don. While Don is a great guitar player, he songs he writes seemed to involve guitar solos as the primary and singing as the secondary. Stuart, like Joe, is a musician who plays guitar. He understands how a band works and everybody has different part to play in the band.

I have theorized that Steuart may have contributed vocals on the Long Road of Eden album. Given how much he was singing on stage, it would make sense to use him as back up on the album; why not? But it’s just a theory, I can’t say I can make out that it’s actually his voice I’m hearing on some of the songs, like “Waiting in the Weeds.”

I don’t think he sang as much in the Forum show b/c the addition of Vince made it unnecessary, plus Deacon tends to harmonize with Vince, adding another layer of strong vocals.

As far as being better than Don, better at what? Steuart can certainly play and has made some nice contributions to their last album, but I don’t believe he’s written anything as iconic as “Hotel California” or the bassline to “One of These Nights.” Being a team player is great, but that’s generally not the main way hit records are made.

[WalshFan88]

I think Scamp means in terms of technical ability he is "better". In which he may be right as far as technicality. Steuart is a slightly more versatile player I would say.

However, I really don't like equating being more technical = better. I mean I think it means they are more advanced but that doesn't mean someone who wants to play like Keith Richards is bad. Actually its usually the more simple parts that make their way onto hit records and into brains. I hate comparisons in general and trying to make it competitive.

While the business of music is competitive and cut throat, the artistry is subjective not objective and I feel competition stifles creation and can lead to many talented people getting pushed aside in a popularity contest or in terms of technical ability. I'd rather hear Keith Richards than Joe Satriani anyway. Does that mean technicality = bad, no. But I see them as equally worthy of respect. I prefer more reckless rock abandon in my music. I feel like completion and art, while they frequently go hand in hand, really shouldn't. I feel like for every Mona Lisa, we need the kid who put his heart and soul into a finger-painting in kindergarten and should treat them with respect and admiration. I'm usually alone in this, but it's a hill I'm very comfortable dying on. Some would whine about participation trophies but I feel we should build each other up. Constructive criticism should always be focused on the piece presented, not the ability or quality of the artist providing it. For everyone who likes a Louis Vuitton handbag, someone hates it and likes their off brand they got from Walmart. There is room for all of it. Whether or not you are successful a lot of the times is at least 50 percent out of your hands in modern times. It's harder to get your music noticed let alone get a deal or make it big. There is a lot of shallowness in the industry that wants someone to look as good as they sound now. :(

In terms of a team player - I'd argue the fact Felder wasn't one is largely why he was fired, but that's for another thread another day. I don't think at this stage of the band, even when Glenn was still alive, they were looking to have another Felder type character to write with. That was largely past them, I'd say The Long Run was their last hurrah. I appreciate LROOE, and it has nothing to do with Felder not being there but rather after the HFO reunion I think they knew their remaining gifts to be shared was play music live. It wouldn't have mattered anyway. That creative youthful spark was long gone, largely since Hotel California IMO. But there is a reason their 70s output is still so played now.

So, because of that, I dare say the fact Stu is a team player is not a hinderance but a highlight. There is nothing wrong with being a team player. There is also nothing wrong with realizing what Glenn himself said in HOTE - you can't do it without the other guys but not everyone gets to touch the ball all the time aka run the band. There can't be that many leaders. Hence why Eagles LTD as it was, was foolish. It was Glenn and Don's band. They couldn't do it without Felder, Meisner, Walsh, Leadon, etc. But make no mistake they were the Lennon and McCartney. Does that make Harrison and Starr useless? Heck no! But don't get it wrong, the other two will always be out front more running the ship. The two leaders will always find their way to the top. Especially if the band was pieced together over time by one or two members slowly adding and removing members to get the musical stew just right. Glenn asked Don, so the ball started with Glenn and Don would tell you it was Glenn's band. But those two then sought out the rest. Were they essential for their eras, absolutely. But GF/DH's partnership lead the band and thus seen as the primary songwriting geniuses behind the bulk of the band's creative output - right, wrong, or indifferent. I wish it wasn't a hierarchical system. I really do. It goes back to my art and competition thing. But the business of music is a different animal than measuring talent or art created. The music business is nasty. Always has been. But the band for better or worse has survived it. And Glenn and Don made the right decisions.

And it's been said before but I don't think Steuart Smith had any intentions of taking Felder's place as an Eagle or as a rockstar or a writer. He knew that the band was mostly focused on touring. He wanted to work on LROOE because he's a studio musician and that's his world. But he's not going to be sitting in his beach house in Mailbu snorting coke while coming up with a chord progression. He's truly a hired gun sideman. He just plays Felder's parts just like a newly hired factory worker would build the same parts in the same spot on the assembly line as the guy they fired last week. He's there to complete a task the bosses need to keep the business running. Nothing more nothing less. But he's never tried to be an Eagle or punch above his weight class, and he gets my immediate and full respect for that very reason. Steuart is nothing if not humble. Class act.

[thebagels]

Glad to be here when other people are actually online. That almost never happens.

In the videos I've seen of recent Eagles shows, Steuart sings the same lines that he did when Glenn was still alive. i'd imagine that they use him to double Henley's part or Tim's part.

As for Felder, I won't say anything about his personality because all of them seem very cagey and passive aggressive at their best. What I will say is that Don had a really thick tone that suited most of the Eagles recordings he was on (except at the millennium concert, his guitar sounded like it was underwater for some reason; I don't know why). Steuart does not have this thick tone as he slaps at the strings instead of hitting them solid like Felder did. Steuart also has a lot of compression applied to his tone while Felder doesn't seem to. I also notice that Felder has better timing and can get with a groove better than Steuart can.

To address their versatility or lack thereof, it may be worth remembering that Felder likely has more irons in the fire than we know about. It's clear that he has a lot of knowledge about how the production side of things works (in several interviews he's discussed recording gear extensively and even stated that he had Pro Tools in the 90s!), and if one examines the guitar solos that he wrote, one can see that there's a variety of different influences that he applies tastefully to different songs. To me that's the most important thing that Don brought to the table as his songwriting is lackluster at best imo.

[WalshFan88]

As for Felder, I won't say anything about his personality because all of them seem very cagey and passive aggressive at their best. What I will say is that Don had a really thick tone that suited most of the Eagles recordings he was on (except at the millennium concert, his guitar sounded like it was underwater for some reason; I don't know why). Steuart does not have this thick tone as he slaps at the strings instead of hitting them solid like Felder did. Steuart also has a lot of compression applied to his tone while Felder doesn't seem to. I also notice that Felder has better timing and can get with a groove better than Steuart can.

This is a stylistic difference, not one of improper technique. Steuart uses his fingers and comes from the country hybrid picking world. He actually uses a thumbpick like Brent Mason and other Nashville-ites do. And using compressor pedals is another Nashville and country music thing. Especially 80s/90s stuff.

To address their versatility or lack thereof, it may be worth remembering that Felder likely has more irons in the fire than we know about. It's clear that he has a lot of knowledge about how the production side of things works (in several interviews he's discussed recording gear extensively and even stated that he had Pro Tools in the 90s!), and if one examines the guitar solos that he wrote, one can see that there's a variety of different influences that he applies tastefully to different songs. To me that's the most important thing that Don brought to the table as his songwriting is lackluster at best imo.

I don't doubt Felder has many influences. Steuart however is a chameleon. He's a country player at heart but he can play rock music well and many other genres. As a studio musician, Steuart has to cop many different styles and well. I think there is no denying Steuart is more well rounded than Don. Better, no. But the difference is there. It's just a different approach and way of doing things. Don grew up and wasn't a hired hand type but a band member and rockstar who joined an established band and they wanted him for the style he had and he didn't have to cop anyone's parts. Joe, on the other hand did have to learn some Bernie-isms as he replaced him. Then when Steuart came along he took some of that stuff over as he was better at country licks than Joe was. Don was hired to create parts and play them. He didn't have a predecessor unlike Joe and Steuart. He was brought in to fill out the band and create a sound/parts.

....

[Scamp]

I think this has been such a great thread. I enjoy hearing what other think, especially when everyone everyone is being so informative in their post. No trash like on other sites, just good positive attitude. Real Eagles fans here. Love it.
I can't wait for them to return to touring. All this time without live music has been terrible. There's something satisfying about having live concerts. I think Ive about worn out my DVD collection of concerts.
Stay safe everyone, we're getting through this...Concerts are coming.

PS I really enjoy the way Joe and Steuart play together and the way they seem to being enjoying it too. Two different styles the complement each other.

[shunlvswx]

Happy Birthday to Scotty. It was so cool to meet him and Michael 5 years ago.

Also congrats to Erica Swindell. She got married I think 2 weeks ago.

[WalshFan88]

Happy Birthday to Scott.

[Ive always been a dreamer]

A belated Happy Birthday to Scott - a really friendly and sweet guy. Hope it was a good one.

[Scamp]

Steuart Smith. Found this article on Steuart. He talks about some of his past groups and people he's played with and they talk about him. He has quite a background. I found it interesting because I like Steuart and his playing. It's a good read.

https://northernvirginiamag.com/culture/culture-features/2021/04/23/the-eagles-steuart-smith-keeps-his-rockstar-title-private/

[WalshFan88]

Steuart is what Glenn said in the HOTE doc - a terrific musician. He really can rock it up despite coming from more of a country music background. And he does so in a more raw way than most country guitarists. Most country guitarists are too technical when they try to play Classic Rock. Steuart has those abilities but he can also play a rock solo and make it not sound too perfected and he can really groove and let loose but can also tighten it up when need be. He's a chameleon. He makes those Gibson SG Juniors sound like a million bucks. Great crunchy rock tone. The guys lucked out getting him. And they really have got their money's worth out of him. He's very consistent and is reliable.

[Scamp]

Joe said in in interview that getting Steuart was a big plus..He's so good, writes and produces. When making the LROE Joe said that Steuart played most all the guitar parts. Joe just played his songs and played mostly piano, keyboard and organ on the album.
Steuart is one of the few players you can still see using a thumb pick.

[Ive always been a dreamer]

Thanks for the link, Scamp. Steuart is a very talented guy for sure.

[shunlvswx]

Will was inducted into the Rochester Music Hall of Fame this past weekend and he had a surprised special guest, his boss Don Henley.

There was also a video montage from Michael/Scott/Steuart, Joe, Timothy, Vince, and Deacon congratulating Will.

Rochester Music Hall of Fame inducts 10th class; Don Henley surprises crowd | WHAM (13wham.com) (https://13wham.com/news/local/rochester-music-hall-of-fame-inducts-10th-class-don-henley-surprises-crowd?fbclid=IwAR20fCewRQj5vhV-xkFKfn7l5jPoKh7oYJazcdjErGiQ2dvONZQY2FVZYGg)

Here's Don and Will's speech. I found the video of the guys congratulating him.
Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/RMHF2012/videos/1626038194526381) (Don and Will's speech)
(4) Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/RMHF2012/videos/779770980120996) (Video montage of the guys congratulating Will and the house band playing and singing Life In The Fast Lane with Will on keys. They also do another song).

[Ive always been a dreamer]

Thanks for finding this, shun. And ...

CONGRATS TO WILL HOLLIS ON HIS INDUCTION TO THE ROCHESTER MUSIC HALL OF FAME!!!

Very much deserved.

[groupie2686]

Very cool! I lived in Rochester for a few years and worked across the street from the Eastman Theater, why didn't this happen when I was there??!!

Congratulations Will Hollis!

[shunlvswx]

Happy 60th Birthday to the longest member of the back up band, Scotty!! I met him once in 2017 after the Don’s solo show in Austin. A nice guy who took the time to talk to us. Him and Michael.