The Eagles And The Fight Over Setlist Order That Lasted Two Days

April 2, 2025

The air was thick with anticipation as the members of The Eagles gathered in a small, dimly lit rehearsal room in Los Angeles. It was the week before their highly anticipated comeback tour, and they had just one critical task ahead of them: finalizing the setlist order. Little did they know, this seemingly simple task would spark a battle that would last two days, forcing them to confront not only their musical preferences but the essence of their friendship.

As the first morning sun peeked through the dusty windows, the band sat around a table, their faces etched with determination. Glenn Frey, the charismatic frontman, championed an upbeat start with “Take It Easy,” insisting that it would set a joyful tone for the evening. Don Henley, however, had other ideas. He passionately argued for “Hotel California” to open the show, believing it would make a powerful statement and draw the audience in with its haunting melody. Tensions flared as they debated, each defending their vision, while Joe Walsh and Timothy B. Schmit tried to mediate the conflict, chiming in with their own opinions and suggestions.

As the hours dragged on, the excitement of the reunion began to fade, replaced by frustration. The Eagles, known for their harmony in music, found themselves in discord. By the end of the first day, no agreement had been reached, and the mood was somber as each member left the room, their hearts heavy with unspoken tension. Glenn reflected later, “It hurt to think our creative differences could tear us apart.” These were not just bandmates; they were friends who had shared laughter, tears, and unforgettable moments through their music.

When they reconvened the next morning, the weight of their disagreement lingered in the air. Instead of the typical camaraderie, there was a palpable tension. To break the ice, Joe suggested they each write down their ideal setlist separately and present them. This idea seemed to bring a spark of hope. As they shared their lists, they began to see the beauty in each other’s choices. Songs like “Desperado” and “Life in the Fast Lane” resonated deeply, revealing the layers of emotion that each member had poured into their craft over the years.

By the end of the second day, the fog of frustration began to lift. They finally settled on a setlist that combined both their visions, blending the upbeat energy of their classics with the narrative depth of their ballads. The mix felt electric, an embodiment of their collective spirit. As they ran through the setlist for the first time, it felt as though the music was bridging the gap that had formed between them. With each chord, they rediscovered the bond that had brought them together in the first place—the love for music and the magic it created.

That whirlwind of emotions and collaboration not only defined the upcoming tour but also rejuvenated their careers. The fans could feel the authenticity and passion radiating from the stage, transforming their live performances into legendary experiences. The Eagles emerged stronger, united in their artistry, and they carried the lessons from those two days forward. They learned that conflicts could lead to growth and that through their struggles, they could create something even more beautiful together. It was a testament to their resilience, and as they stood on stage, they knew they were not just playing songs—they were sharing a piece of their hearts.