Having sold more than 200 million records, including 100 million sold in US alone, The Eagles are one of the world’s best-selling bands and the best-selling popular music artists in history. They have released seven studio albums, three live albums, 11 compilation albums, as well as four video albums and 30 singles.
The Eagles evolved from talented country rockers to arena stars thanks to angelic four-part harmonies that sweetened lyrics about the dark side of the American dream. Primary songwriters and vocalists Glenn Frey and Don Henley decided to start a band together the day they met as members of Linda Ronstadt’s backing group in 1971, and soon recruited the more seasoned Bernie Leadon and Randy Meisner. Their 1972 self-titled debut brought hits like “Take It Easy,” “Witchy Woman,” and “Peaceful Easy Feeling,” but Frey and Henley almost derailed their trajectory with Desperado, a loosely conceptual song cycle that favorably equated SoCal guitar singers to Old West pistol packers. The Eagles’ soft rock hardened with the addition of crackerjack guitarist Don Felder for 1974’s On the Border, whose uncharacteristically political title track referenced the ongoing Watergate scandal.
The next year, after charismatic guitar badass Joe Walsh swapped in for Leaden, One of These Nights became the first of four consecutive chart-topping Eagles albums, with its unbeatable blend of impeccable radio hits (“One of These Nights,” “Lyin’ Eyes”) joined by all-too-knowing interrogations of success and overindulgence like “After the Thrill Is Gone.” Record buyers found the Eagles’ ambivalence about love and fame irresistible: The group’s first compilation, Their Greatest Hits (1971-1975), has sold more copies than any other 20th-century American album, and they followed it with a masterpiece. Hotel California was a velvet glove cast in irony and—in singles like “New Kid in Town,” “Life in the Fast Lane,” and its epic title track—the very definition of classic rock, possessing a polish that future country stars would eagerly adopt.
A 14-year hiatus followed the Eagles’ 1979 The Long Run, but from the mid-’90s and well into the 21st century they’ve found their way back to each other for reunion tours, a live album, and even a final studio effort, 2007’s characteristically world-weary Long Road Out of Eden. It was the closing track of The Long Run, though, that clarified the soft-rock sultans’ career-long lament: “I don’t know why fortune smiles on some/And lets the rest go free.” So, if you are a die heart fan of Eagles Albums then check out here we have list of Eagles albums in order of release so far.
All Eagles Albums Available on: Apple Music
List of Eagles Studio Albums in Order of Release Date
1. Eagles (1972)
The Eagles’ self-titled debut album, released in 1972, marked the beginning of a musical journey that would propel them to become one of the most successful rock bands of all time. The album effortlessly blends elements of rock, country, and folk, showcasing the band’s exceptional harmonies and instrumental prowess. From the opening track “Take It Easy,” co-written by Glenn Frey and Jackson Browne, to the heartfelt ballad “Desperado,” the album is a collection of timeless classics.
With its impeccable songwriting and memorable hooks, Eagles Eagles captures the essence of the Southern California sound that would define the band’s career. Songs like “Witchy Woman” and “Peaceful Easy Feeling” exude a laid-back vibe, while “Already Gone” and “Train Leaves Here This Morning” showcase the band’s versatility and musical depth.
Eagles Eagles is a cohesive and impressive debut, setting the stage for the Eagles’ subsequent success and solidifying their place in the pantheon of rock music. The album remains a beloved cornerstone of the band’s discography, a testament to their exceptional musicianship and enduring appeal.
2. Desperado (1973)
The Eagles’ album “Desperado,” released in 1973, is a remarkable musical endeavor that captures the essence of the Wild West era and explores themes of love, loss, and the pursuit of freedom. With its distinctive country-rock sound, the album takes listeners on a journey through a narrative-rich collection of songs.
“Desperado” showcases the band’s impeccable harmonies and masterful songwriting. The title track, “Desperado,” serves as the album’s centerpiece, painting a vivid portrait of an outlaw seeking redemption. Other notable tracks, such as “Tequila Sunrise,” “Doolin-Dalton,” and “Outlaw Man,” further delve into the rugged and lawless spirit of the American frontier.
The album’s musical arrangements are both soulful and evocative, blending elements of folk, rock, and country seamlessly. The Eagles’ impeccable musicianship, combined with their heartfelt lyrics, creates an atmosphere that captivates listeners and transports them to a bygone era.
“Desperado” remains a timeless classic, solidifying the Eagles’ status as one of the most influential bands in the history of rock music. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level and its ability to tell compelling stories through the power of music.
3. On the Border (1974)
Eagles’ “On the Border” album, released in 1974, showcases the band’s evolution towards a more rock-oriented sound while retaining their signature harmonies. With this record, the Eagles explored diverse musical styles, blending elements of country, folk, and rock seamlessly.
The album features some of their most memorable hits, including the classic rock anthem “Already Gone” and the introspective ballad “Best of My Love,” which became their first number-one single. The band also delves into a more rebellious and edgy sound with tracks like “James Dean” and “Good Day in Hell.”
“On the Border” is a dynamic and cohesive album that reflects the Eagles’ growth as songwriters and performers. Their intricate vocal arrangements, tight instrumentation, and thought-provoking lyrics make this record a significant milestone in the band’s discography, setting the stage for their future success and establishing their place as one of the defining acts of the ’70s rock scene.
4. One of These Nights (1975)
Released in 1975, “One of These Nights” is the fourth studio album by the American rock band Eagles. This critically acclaimed album marked a significant shift in the band’s musical style, showcasing a fusion of rock, country, and pop elements. The title track, “One of These Nights,” became a chart-topping hit, exhibiting the Eagles’ signature harmonies and introspective lyrics.
The album seamlessly blends a variety of musical influences, ranging from the hauntingly beautiful “Take It to the Limit” to the energetic rock anthem “Lyin’ Eyes.” With its diverse range of songs, the album explores themes of love, longing, and self-discovery, capturing the essence of the mid-1970s.
“One of These Nights” solidified the Eagles’ status as one of the leading forces in the American rock scene. It showcased the band’s impeccable musicianship, polished songwriting, and remarkable vocal harmonies. With its commercial success and critical acclaim, the album helped define the sound of the Eagles and remains a cherished classic in rock music history.
5. Hotel California (1976)
The Eagles’ iconic album “Hotel California,” released in 1976, remains a timeless masterpiece that has captivated generations of music lovers. The record exudes a blend of rock and folk influences, showcasing the band’s exceptional musicianship and impeccable songwriting skills.
“Hotel California” opens with its eponymous track, a haunting and enigmatic exploration of the darker side of the American Dream. The album seamlessly transitions from one memorable track to another, featuring classics like “New Kid in Town,” a melodic reflection on fame and its consequences, and the soulful “Life in the Fast Lane,” which delves into the excesses and pitfalls of a hedonistic lifestyle.
The album’s diverse range of sounds and styles is further exemplified by the upbeat country-rock anthem “Heartache Tonight” and the tender ballad “Wasted Time.” The harmonies of Don Henley and Glenn Frey, along with the intricate guitar work of Joe Walsh and Don Felder, contribute to the album’s rich sonic tapestry.
“Hotel California” is a timeless treasure, a musical journey that continues to resonate with listeners worldwide, offering a glimpse into the complexities of life, love, and the pursuit of the elusive American Dream.
6. The Long Run (1979)
The Eagles’ album “The Long Run,” released in 1979, showcases the band’s maturity and evolution as musicians. Building on the success of their previous album “Hotel California,” the band delves into a mix of rock, pop, and country influences, resulting in a diverse and cohesive record.
“The Long Run” features several iconic tracks, including the title track, which serves as a commentary on the challenges of maintaining relationships in the music industry. The album also includes hit singles like “Heartache Tonight” and “I Can’t Tell You Why,” which highlight the Eagles’ impeccable harmonies and memorable melodies.
With its introspective lyrics and polished sound, “The Long Run” reflects the band’s growth as songwriters and performers. While it didn’t surpass the monumental success of “Hotel California,” the album remains a testament to the Eagles’ enduring artistry and their ability to create timeless music that resonates with audiences even today.
7. Long Road Out of Eden (2007)
The Eagles’ “Long Road Out of Eden” album, released in 2007, marked their first studio album of all-new material in nearly 28 years. This highly anticipated record showcased the band’s signature sound while exploring various musical genres. Spanning over two discs, “Long Road Out of Eden” is a captivating journey through diverse musical landscapes, blending rock, country, folk, and pop elements seamlessly.
The album boasts thought-provoking lyrics and rich harmonies that have become synonymous with the Eagles’ style. With tracks like the poignant “No More Cloudy Days” and the politically charged “Frail Grasp on the Big Picture,” the band tackles both personal and societal themes with their characteristic musical finesse.
“Long Road Out of Eden” exhibits the Eagles’ mastery of storytelling, evident in epic tracks such as the title song itself, which takes listeners on a captivating sonic voyage. From the catchy hooks of “How Long” to the introspective balladry of “Waiting in the Weeds,” the album offers a range of emotions and musical craftsmanship.
With its immaculate production, exceptional musicianship, and captivating songwriting, “Long Road Out of Eden” solidified the Eagles’ legacy as one of the greatest American rock bands of all time, proving that even after a long hiatus, they could deliver an album that both honors their past and ventures into new musical territories.
How many albums does Eagles have?
The Eagles are an American rock band. Since their debut in 1972, they have released SEVEN studio albums, THREE live albums, ELEVEN compilation albums, as well as FOUR video albums and THIRTY singles.
All Eagles Albums in Order of Release Date:
Here is the list of Eagles Album in Order of Release Date:
1. Eagles — June 1, 1972
2. Desperado — April 17, 1973
3. On the Border — March 22, 1974
4. One of These Nights — June 10, 1975
5. Hotel California — December 8, 1976
6. The Long Run — September 24, 1979
7. Long Road Out of Eden — October 30, 2007
Conclusion:
The Eagles, one of the most influential rock bands of all time, concluded their discography with a remarkable collection of albums. From their debut self-titled album in 1972 to their last studio album, “Long Road Out of Eden” in 2007, their music showcased their exceptional harmonies and timeless songwriting. The Eagles’ albums are a testament to their enduring legacy, captivating generations of listeners with their iconic sound and leaving an indelible mark on the history of rock music.
