The Eagles are one of the most successful and beloved rock bands of all time.
With hits like “Hotel California,” “Take It Easy,” and “Desperado,” their music has soundtracked countless lives.
But have you ever wondered where their iconic name came from?
The story behind how the Eagles got their name is a fascinating one, with multiple tales and origins.
Read on to discover the truth and share this with fellow fans!
The Literal Meaning
One of the most straightforward explanations is that the band members simply liked the name “Eagles.”
As a powerful bird of prey, the eagle represents strength, freedom, and soaring to great heights.
These are fitting qualities for a legendary rock band aiming to reach the pinnacles of fame and artistry.
The Mythological Link
Another account suggests the name was inspired by ancient Greek myths.
According to this version, “The Eagles” was meant to evoke the immortal giants of Greek lore.
Just as these towering beings cast long shadows, the band hoped their musical impact would be equally grand and enduring.
Honoring Traditions
There’s also a theory that the name paid homage to two influential bands of the time: The Beatles and The Byrds.
Just as British Invasion Act The Byrds adopted avian monikers, and The Eagles continued that tradition with their own bird-based name.
By doing so, they may have hoped to follow in the footsteps of their hugely successful predecessors.
Rejecting Other Options
Allegedly, the band first considered calling themselves “The Emerald Valley Boys” or “The Surf Riders.”
While surely creative, these options fell flat compared to the simple yet powerful “Eagles” moniker.
In rejecting those other names, the band made a wise choice that would become deeply iconic.
A Spiritual Connection
Some believe the name has spiritual undertones, connecting to Native American beliefs about the eagle.
In many indigenous traditions, the eagle is a sacred messenger carrying prayers to the heavens.
Perhaps the band felt their music could similarly elevate and inspire listeners worldwide.
The Steve Miller Link
One last theory is that the name was meant as a subtle jab at fellow musician Steve Miller.
Miller had scored a major hit in 1968 with “The Joker,” which contained the line, “Some people call me the space cowboy, some call me the gangster of love.”
According to legend, The Eagles were mocking Miller when they chose their avian name.
Bernie Leadon’s Suggestion
In some accounts, the name “Eagles” was first proposed by founding member Bernie Leadon.
As a talented multi-instrumentalist, Leadon had a major influence in shaping the band’s early sound and direction.
His suggestion of an eagle moniker may have stemmed from a desire to embody strength and natural majesty.
Glenn Frey’s Brainchild?
Songwriter J.D. Souther has claimed it was actually Glenn Frey who first thought of calling the band The Eagles.
As one of the principal songwriters alongside Don Henley, Frey’s creative vision was pivotal.
Perhaps naming the group was just one manifestation of his role as an architect of their iconic identity.
Inspired by the Mojave
There are also theories that a 1971 road trip through the Mojave Desert sparked the Eagles name.
While driving through that vast, arid landscape, the band members were allegedly awestruck by eagles soaring majestically overhead.
If true, the name would be a tribute to that profound experience amidst nature’s grandeur.
Steve Martin’s Two Cents
Believe it or not, comedian Steve Martin may have helped solidify the band’s name in an indirect way.
.As Martin tells it, he once suggested to Glenn Frey that they call themselves “The Eagels”.
Frey’s rebuke of that idea may have committed him even further to the simple, classic “Eagles” spelling.
The Uncertainty Remains
Despite all these stories, the true origin behind The Eagles’ name remains uncertain.
The band members themselves have offered contradictory accounts over the years.
In the end, perhaps the most intriguing aspect is how the simple word “Eagles” came to represent an entire culture and musical movement.
Conclusion
No matter which version of events you choose to believe, one thing is clear.
The name The Eagles has taken on a life of its own, forever intertwined with their legendary music.
So keep speculating, keep debating, and most of all, keep sharing your love for this iconic band.
Hit that share button and spread the story behind their name far and wide!
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