Re: Discussion of Eagles Documentary "History of the Eagles"
I look forward to more discussion as well, as I joined after the documentary aired. I'm sure it's been discussed before, but the Glenn/Don dynamic was one of the most interesting things about the documentary to me.
Because they did not give all that many interviews in the 70's, and because (to me) Don always seemed to be the more intense personality of the two, I have always assumed that, while they were clearly the two driving forces behind the band, that Don somehow might have had more sway.
It was fascinating to see how driven and intense Glenn was and that it was "his" band in everyone's eyes. I did not know that. It really opened my eyes as to how much Don leans on Glenn and looks to him for band decisions.
Also, when Don was talking about how he would sometimes wonder "why me" when other people who he perceived to be just as talented, or more so, did not have the same success, was astounding. I have always thought he was so gifted that I couldn't imagine someone like that having those issues.
I loved their interviews. I know some people say it made them look bad, but I loved the refreshing honesty and frankness when they talked about the craziness in the band in the 70's. They did not pretty it, or their actions, up and I respect that.
Of course, this has probably all been talked about before, so I'll stop now. LOL
Re: Discussion of Eagles Documentary "History of the Eagles"
Quote:
Originally Posted by
NYC Fan
Also, when Don was talking about how he would sometimes wonder "why me" when other people who he perceived to be just as talented, or more so, did not have the same success, was astounding. I have always thought he was so gifted that I couldn't imagine someone like that having those issues.
A line from The Sad Cafe: I don't know why fortune smiles on some and lets the rest go free.
IMO, the entire song talks about the 'why me'. What's the line he says in the documentary? Something like 'success can be as overwhelming and disconcerting as failure'? Something like that.
To me, it speaks very well of him. He's realistic enough to know he's gifted. He looks around at those he thinks are more gifted than he and realizes he's also lucky. Yet it wasn't luck for any of them and especially Don and Glenn, IMO. Talent and good looks only take you so far. Ambition and drive take you to the top. In my experience, those who can make decisions, informed decisions, and make them quickly also rise to the top. I'm constantly amazed at how many talented people stay in one place because they can't decide what to do.
Feel free to go back and re-read the entire thread to see what was discussed, but I don't remember discussing this topic before. Even if it had been, adding new insights is always a good thing.
Re: Discussion of Eagles Documentary "History of the Eagles"
Quote:
Originally Posted by
VAisForEagleLovers
A line from The Sad Cafe: I don't know why fortune smiles on some and lets the rest go free.
IMO, the entire song talks about the 'why me'. What's the line he says in the documentary? Something like 'success can be as overwhelming and disconcerting as failure'? Something like that.
Yes, that line was one of the most striking things to me. The feelings that he appeared to have about success. It must have been so overwhelming for them to have all that so suddenly. I know they had all been in bands for years, but having that kind of success on your first album must be pretty mind blowing.
Great line relating to that from The Sad Cafe. Such a beautiful song. I may have to give it a listen this morning!
Will definitely go back and re-read this thread. I've learned a lot going through the various threads about thing I never knew!
Heading down to Philly to see the Titanic exhibit and Fleetwood Mac tonight! I've never seen them, but my friend who I am visiting is a huge fan and I like a lot of their music, so I'm really looking forward to it.
Re: Discussion of Eagles Documentary "History of the Eagles"
This doesn't really pertain to the documentary but I always thought that the Sad Cafe was the perfect song to end the last album (at the time) of a great band. I think the signs that the band was ending can be seen when you listen to the album, the songs say it all. Didn't realize that until I watched the documentary.
Re: Discussion of Eagles Documentary "History of the Eagles"
I DVR'd the doc and have watched it ....well .......to many times to count, it's like a drug to me, I think it was well done and respectful to all involved. I think that Don Felder's heartfelt last interview segment where he talks about missing "these guys" made me feel sad for him as I felt he was genuine. Joe Walsh is truly a remarkable human, going through so much and still going strong.
Re: Discussion of Eagles Documentary "History of the Eagles"
Quote:
Originally Posted by
NYC Fan
I look forward to more discussion as well, as I joined after the documentary aired. I'm sure it's been discussed before, but the Glenn/Don dynamic was one of the most interesting things about the documentary to me.
Because they did not give all that many interviews in the 70's, and because (to me) Don always seemed to be the more intense personality of the two, I have always assumed that, while they were clearly the two driving forces behind the band, that Don somehow might have had more sway.
It was fascinating to see how driven and intense Glenn was and that it was "his" band in everyone's eyes. I did not know that. It really opened my eyes as to how much Don leans on Glenn and looks to him for band decisions.
Also, when Don was talking about how he would sometimes wonder "why me" when other people who he perceived to be just as talented, or more so, did not have the same success, was astounding. I have always thought he was so gifted that I couldn't imagine someone like that having those issues.
I loved their interviews. I know some people say it made them look bad, but I loved the refreshing honesty and frankness when they talked about the craziness in the band in the 70's. They did not pretty it, or their actions, up and I respect that.
Of course, this has probably all been talked about before, so I'll stop now. LOL
yeah I don't think we'll tire of talking about this for a while!
I've stopped rewatching the doc for a bit since I pre-ordered it. So it'll be a little new again by the time I get the blu-ray:)
yes I loved how Don was so humble and modest and real when discussing the band's (and his own) success.
Not really knowing too much about them apart from loving their tunes, I had always thought Don was the leader of the band too. It was definitely cool to see how it all really worked.
I also really appreciated the refreshing honesty of it all...the fights...the "we would only do it if we made the most money"...etc
it's not always rose-tinted, but that's life.
Glenn did sound a bit full of himself, but it actually made me more interested in him. I did feel a little bad for Felder when he teared up.
Felder tells a different story and says the band is rewriting history in the doc...
we may never know the whole truth.
There comes a point when you've told the same lies or variations of reality that the line blurs and you honestly believe it as a truth. This could be true for all parties here. They probably all truly believe they are telling the truth.
I also thought it was really cool to see how the band worked together...everyone was actively involved, even if they weren't doing the bulk of the songwriting. I liked how they were all singers...and harmonized etc. I know bands like The Band and CSN did that too, but when I think about most classic rock bands (like the Stones and Led Zeppelin), there is a very traditional dynamic of lead singer, guitarist, bassist, drummer...with the singer being the only real singer, while the other guys maybe do some back up, but that's about it.
Re: Discussion of Eagles Documentary "History of the Eagles"
Quote:
Originally Posted by
VAisForEagleLovers
I'm constantly amazed at how many talented people stay in one place because they can't decide what to do.
so true!
In fact I know all too well, unfortunately. As an artist myself, I definitely get in my own way and hold myself back with doubt and insecurity. Even though I recognize this, I'm stuck on the border. It's hard to dig myself out.
so yes...the Eagles having amazing drive and ambition!
Re: Discussion of Eagles Documentary "History of the Eagles"
Re: Discussion of Eagles Documentary "History of the Eagles"