Musicians from California often carry a distinctive aura. From The Beach Boys to Red Hot Chili Peppers, there’s a certain energy that evokes bright sunshine and cruising down Santa Monica Boulevard. Though Tom Petty started as a transplant in California, he recognized that the Eagles were the true rulers of the Sunshine State during his rise to fame.
Glenn Frey: From Detroit to the California Dream
Interestingly, not many Eagles members were California natives. Glenn Frey, for example, was drawn from the cold city of Detroit to the sunny vibes of California. Meeting JD Souther early on, Frey realized his calling was to sing about the breezy side of life rather than more serious themes.
Don Henley: The Texan’s Country Roots
Don Henley, on the other hand, grew up in Texas, deeply entrenched in country music. A pivotal moment in his career came when legend Kenny Rogers offered him a lifetime opportunity. Henley and Frey’s collaboration with Linda Ronstadt marked the beginning of what would become a musical giant.
Petty’s Journey: From Mudcrutch to The Heartbreakers
Meanwhile, on the other side of the country, Tom Petty was honing his skills with Mudcrutch, absorbing the sounds of California. Though the Heartbreakers evolved into a different entity, they shared some common ground with the Eagles. Notably, Bernie Leadon’s brother was in an early version of Mudcrutch with Petty, and Don Felder had given Petty guitar lessons when he was starting out.
Petty’s Admiration for the Eagles
Despite his rebellious streak, Petty admired the Eagles. In a 1980 interview with NME, he mentioned, “We’re toying with the idea of playing more country songs now. Not Californian country rock which became a bad word. I think [The Eagles] are a good band. They’re the kings of that genre.”
The Eagles: Carving Their Niche
Though the Eagles might have downplayed their originality by crediting predecessors like Gram Parsons, they undeniably carved out their niche over the years. They showcased their country influences on albums like “Desperado,” while also producing soul-infused tracks like “One of These Nights” and hard rock hits like “Life in the Fast Lane.”
Petty’s Country Influences
Petty, too, infused his music with country elements, particularly in his later career. In the 1990s, he leaned towards acoustic material on “Wildflowers” and backed Johnny Cash on the album “Unchained.” The documentary “Runnin’ Down a Dream” even features Petty suggesting classic country songs like Hank Williams’s “Lost Highway” for their setlist.
The Heart of American Music
While the Eagles embraced a twang in their vocals, Petty approached country from a different angle. For him, this genre was about delving into the essence of pure American music. Both artists, in their unique ways, contributed to the rich tapestry of California rock, leaving an indelible mark on the music landscape.
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