JD Souther

JD Souther
Souther performing in 2008
Background information
Birth nameJohn David Souther
Born(1945-11-02)November 2, 1945
Detroit, Michigan, U.S.
DiedSeptember 17, 2024(2024-09-17) (aged 78)
Sandia Park, New Mexico, U.S.
Genres
Occupations
  • Singer
  • songwriter
  • musician
Instruments
  • Guitar
  • vocals
Years active1965–2024
LabelsElektra
Formerly of
Websitewww.jdsouther.net

John David Souther (November 2, 1945 – September 17, 2024) was an American singer, songwriter, and actor. He was "a principal architect of the Southern California sound and a major influence on a generation of songwriters". Souther wrote and co-wrote songs recorded by Linda Ronstadt and some of the Eagles biggest hits, including "Best of My Love", "Victim of Love", "Heartache Tonight" and "New Kid in Town". "How Long", which appeared on the Eagles' Long Road Out of Eden, came from Souther's first solo album. He recorded two hit songs in his solo career: "You're Only Lonely" (1979) and "Her Town Too" (1981), a duet with James Taylor. He had a brief acting career and appeared on TV and in movies. He played with the Eagles on their 2008 farewell tour.