The Eagles And Their Forgotten Cover Of A Jackson Browne Deep Cut

April 3, 2025

In the early 1970s, the music scene was ready for change. Bands were experimenting, blending rock and folk sounds, captivating audiences across America. Among them were The Eagles, a rising group known for their harmonies and catchy melodies. But there was another artist on the horizon who had a different kind of magic: Jackson Browne. He was a singer-songwriter whose deep, introspective lyrics offered a glimpse into the heart and mind of a generation. Yet, despite his gifts, Browne’s songs were often overlooked by the mainstream, leaving some of his best work unnoticed, including a haunting track called “These Days.”

One day, while rehearsing for an album, The Eagles stumbled upon “These Days.” They were drawn to the raw emotion of the song, its themes of nostalgia and heartache resonating with their own experiences as young musicians chasing dreams in a tumultuous world. They decided to put their own spin on it, infusing it with their signature harmonies and smooth sound. This cover would later be included in their 1974 live album, “Eagles: Their Greatest Hits (1971-1975).” While it would never reach the radio waves like other tracks from that album, it would forever change the way they viewed their own artistry and influenced how they connected with their audience.

At first, Browne was unaware of the impact The Eagles’ cover would have. He was focused on his own journey, playing at small venues and struggling to make ends meet. But as he heard the cover and saw how it resonated with fans, he felt a renewed sense of purpose. The Eagles had brought new life to his music, introducing his deeper songs to a wider audience. Suddenly, people were curious about who he was and wanted to hear more of his work. His career began to gain traction, and he soon released more albums filled with his poignant lyrics and beautiful melodies.

The collaboration between The Eagles and Jackson Browne, though forgotten by many, became a lesson in resilience and the importance of supporting fellow artists. It reminded Browne that his words had power and that even the most seemingly overlooked songs could touch lives if given the right chance. Inspired by this newfound recognition, he doubled down on his passion for songwriting, leading him to create hits like “Running on Empty” and “Somebody’s Baby,” which would solidify his place in rock history.

Years later, Browne reflected on that period of his life with gratitude. He understood that sometimes artists need others to help illuminate their work. The Eagles not only kept “These Days” in the conversation, they reignited Browne’s passion for music where he could express his innermost thoughts and feelings. Their collaboration became a beautiful reminder that music is a shared experience, one where even the quietest voices can find a way to be heard.

In the end, it was more than just a cover; it was a bridge connecting two different artists with a shared love for storytelling through music. The Eagles and Jackson Browne showed that even in a competitive world, there’s strength in collaboration, and through it, they inspired countless others to pursue their dreams, no matter how daunting the path may seem.