J. D.SOUTHER
Although John David Souther may have made his biggest impact on the Country-Rock sound behind the scenes or in supporting roles to some bigger Pop names in the 70’s he had an impressive and critically acclaimed series of solo albums. Born in Detroit raised in Amarillo might help explain his stylistic roots in both Country and Rock. While in high school he was in a band called “The Senders” later relocating to Los Angeles working as a session musician with Glen Frey (The Eagles). Souther’s connections, with Glen Frey, would prove fruitful later collaborating on some of The Eagles biggest hits “Best Of My Love” “New Kid In Town” and “Heartache Tonight”. Prior to forming The Eagles Frey had been in Linda Ronstadt’s band; their collaboration would lead to a long-term working partnership between Souther and Ronstadt. He produced her 1973 album “Don’t Cry Now” along with performing background vocals. Many of Linda Ronstadt’s albums would feature Souther’s songs and from then on would often perform as a vocalist on them as well. Between recording albums of his own he worked as a session player with Don Henley (The Eagles) and James Taylor. In the 70’s Souther had teamed with Cris Hillman and Richie Furay forming the Souther, Hillman, Furay band charting “Fallin’ In Love” #27 Pop, as a solo “You’re Only lonely” #7 Pop & #1 Adult Contemporary along with collaborating with James Taylor on “Her Town Too” #11 Pop. In the late 80’s Souther garnered acting roles for film and television.
