The Eagles were never renowned for their captivating stage presence. Whenever they performed live, their music was nothing short of magical. However, the band members’ static stage presence didn’t quite rival the electrifying energy of an Alice Cooper show. Glenn Frey found his greatest comfort onstage, his true element. One of his earliest experiences performing on stage was thanks to The Rolling Stones.
From the very beginning, before Glenn Frey even had a chance to showcase his singing talent, his mother handed him a piano instead. Despite having a natural talent for music and taking lessons during his early years, it wasn’t considered the most popular activity. This often resulted in him receiving odd glances from his peers. He faced the risk of bullies targeting him if they caught him playing.
Frey resided in Detroit, and the emergence of Motown caused a shift in everyone’s perspective on piano lessons. It may not have been the most popular choice after school. However, being able to perform songs by artists such as Smokey Robinson would make you the center of attention for all the right reasons.
Frey had aspirations beyond being a soul singer for the rest of his life. He was eager to indulge in the captivating melodies of rock music. The moment he laid eyes on The Beatles marked a significant turning point in his musical journey. During his teenage years, he was captivated by The Beatles and their electrifying rock and roll music. The experience became even more memorable when a girl fainted right before him upon catching a glimpse of Paul McCartney.
If the aspiring Eagle wants to achieve superstar status, having a supportive team is crucial. Even though he didn’t connect with everyone at his school, he found a group of younger students who shared his love for The Rolling Stones. Reflecting on the moment they bonded over discussing The History of the Eagles, he recalls, “I was a junior and had a few beers that night when I asked them, ‘Hey, do you guys know ‘Satisfaction’?” “Because I can sing it.'”
Glenn Frey couldn’t have chosen a more suitable song for their audition. ‘Satisfaction‘ may not be the most challenging song to sing. However, capturing the distinctive grit that Mick Jagger infused into the final take is often the defining moment that determines if a singer truly possesses the claimed swagger.
Frey did not need to be concerned about swagger, though. Upon joining the band, Frey began creating various acts in his hometown of Detroit known as The Mushrooms. This led to his connection with Detroit icon Bob Seger. Although his aspirations were beginning to materialize, he did encounter a setback. His mother caught him smoking marijuana and prohibited him from embarking on a tour.
If he desired to pursue that rock and roll dream that Jagger instilled in his mind, it wouldn’t be in Detroit. Once Frey had saved up enough money, he decided to relocate to the vibrant city of Los Angeles. It was there that he formed a dynamic duo with JD Souther. Later, he received an exciting opportunity to showcase his skills as a rhythm guitarist for the talented Linda Ronstadt. Notably, Ronstadt’s band also boasted the impressive talents of Don Henley, a renowned drummer hailing from Texas. It all began with a rock and roll anthem in the heart of Motor City. Frey’s love for music propelled him from the British Invasion to the vibrant world of California sunshine.
