The songwriter who seamlessly merged rock and country genres, JD Souther, has died at the age of 78.
JD Souther passed away on September 17 in his New Mexico home, his website confirmed, the Washington Post reported.
Born in Amarillo, Texas, JD Souther grew up in a musical environment, influenced by his father, a former big band singer who later owned a music store. This early exposure to music heavily influenced Souther, leading him to pursue a career in the arts. In the late 1960s, he moved to Los Angeles, a decision that positioned him at the heart of the burgeoning Southern California music scene.
It was in Los Angeles where Souther's career truly began to take shape. He became friends with upcoming musicians like Glenn Frey and Jackson Browne. This circle also included figures such as Don Henley and Linda Ronstadt, whom he met at the renowned Troubadour nightclub, a hotspot for aspiring artists of the country-rock genre.
Souther and his peers shared a unique artistic ethos, valuing the longevity and quality of their music above its immediate popularity. This foundation helped them shape a new sound that would define an era.
In the 1970s, JD Souther emerged as a key figure in the country-rock movement, contributing significantly to the success of bands and artists like the Eagles, Linda Ronstadt, and James Taylor. His ability to craft songs that resonated with the sentiments of the age earned him a place among music's elite.
He co-wrote some of the Eagles' biggest hits, including "Heartache Tonight" and "Best of My Love," helping propel the band to legendary status. His collaboration with Linda Ronstadt produced memorable tracks such as "Faithless Love" and "Prisoner in Disguise," further cementing his role as a pivotal figure in her career and the broader music scene.
James Taylor's collaboration with Souther on "Her Town Too" showcased his versatility and ability to cross genre boundaries, expanding his influence across the musical spectrum.
Despite his songwriting success for other artists, JD Souther also enjoyed a fruitful solo career. His song "You're Only Lonely" stands as a testament to his solo musical talents. His preference for privacy, despite his commercial success, was well-known. He often expressed his desire to maintain a low profile, enjoying life's simple pleasures away from the spotlight.
Don Henley of the Eagles highlighted Souther's impact and role within their tight-knit community, praising his contributions to their songwriting efforts. This camaraderie was essential not only to their success but also to the shared creative process that defined their work.
Glenn Frey once humorously noted that Souther could have had an even more prominent solo career had he not reserved some of his best songs for his friends, showcasing the generous spirit that permeated his professional life.
JD Souther's debut album "John David Souther," released in 1972, was the first of several that showcased his adept songwriting and vocal ability. His last album, "Tenderness," was released in 2015, punctuating a long and storied career that spanned decades.
His contribution to music was officially recognized in 2013 when he was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, an honor that celebrated his enduring influence on American music.
Beyond music, Souther also pursued acting, with roles in TV shows like "Thirtysomething" and "Nashville," as well as several movies, displaying his versatile talent.
JD Souther’s personal life, while mostly kept private, included his marriages to Alexandra Sliwin and Sarah Nicholson, both of which ended in divorce. He is survived by a stepdaughter, Anja Nicholson, and two sisters, leaving behind a family who cherished him deeply.
As news of his passing spreads, fans and fellow musicians alike remember JD Souther not just for his music but for the quiet, earnest man who never sought the spotlight, yet whose work invariably found its way into the limelight.
