When Vince Gill, one of country music’s most respected voices, joined The Eagles in 2017, it wasn’t just surprising—it was surreal. Fans of both Gill and the legendary rock band never imagined such a pairing. But behind the scenes, it was a story of friendship, timing, loss, and mutual respect that led to one of the most heartfelt additions in Eagles history.
It All Began with Tragedy
In 2016, the world lost Glenn Frey, co-founder of The Eagles and the voice behind classics like “Take It Easy” and “Lyin’ Eyes.” His sudden death left a huge hole in the band—and a heavy question: Would The Eagles ever tour again?
For Don Henley, Glenn’s longtime partner and fellow founding member, the answer at first was no. But eventually, he felt the need to carry on the legacy—for the fans, for the band’s history, and for Glenn’s memory. Yet they couldn’t move forward without the right people.
Enter: Deacon Frey, Glenn’s son, and Vince Gill.
Why Vince Gill?
Vince Gill was not an obvious choice. He wasn’t a rock singer, and he had never been a member of a band that wasn’t his own. But what Vince did have was:
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One of the purest, most versatile voices in music
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A lifelong admiration for The Eagles
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A personal friendship with Glenn Frey and Don Henley
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And perhaps most importantly… the humility and heart to join a legendary group not to replace, but to honor
“I don’t pretend to be Glenn,” Vince said. “But I do hope to carry his songs with the respect they deserve.”
It Wasn’t Vince’s First Connection to The Eagles
Interestingly, Vince had been a fan and friend for years. He toured with the band in the 1990s, sat in on stage at a few shows, and had long described Eagles’ harmonies as a masterclass in musicianship. They influenced his own vocal style—clean, melodic, emotional.
So when Don Henley approached Vince about joining for the Classic West and Classic East concerts in 2017, he was both honored and hesitant.
“I was scared to death,” he later admitted. “But when I heard the songs… I just felt like I was home.”
The Fans’ Reaction? Shock—Then Acceptance
At first, many fans were unsure. How could a country artist fit into a rock institution like The Eagles? But from the very first live shows, Vince proved his place. His performance of songs like “New Kid in Town” and “Take It to the Limit” showcased not just vocal skill, but deep emotional understanding of the music.
And rather than try to become Glenn Frey, Vince brought his own grace and soul—a complement, not a copy.
A Role Rooted in Love and Legacy
Vince Gill has continued touring with The Eagles, sharing lead vocals with Deacon Frey, and helping the band carry on the spirit of what Glenn helped build. And in doing so, Vince has become more than just a guest. He’s a true member of the family.
“It’s the honor of a lifetime,” Vince says. “To be trusted with those songs… that means more than I can ever say.”
So yes, Vince Gill joining The Eagles was unexpected.
But now, it’s hard to imagine the band without him.