J.D. Souther Dies at 78
- Singer/songwriter co-founded Souther-Hillman-Furay Band; collaborated with Eagles, Linda Ronstadt, Bob Weir and others
J.D. Souther, the singer/singwriter who co-founded the Souther-Hillman-Furay Band and collaborated with Eagles, Linda Ronstadt, Bob Weir and others, has died at 78.
“On behalf of Team J.D., we are sad to share this news with all of you,” read a post on Souther’s social media pages that linked to a Los Angeles Times story that did not specify a date or cause of his death.
“J.D. Souther was a friend, and so talented,” Carole King said in a statement. “We’ll miss him.”
The co-writer of such songs as the Eagles’ “New Kid in Town” and “Heartache Tonight” and Ronstadt’s “Faithless Love,” Souther also contributed songs to Bonnie Raitt, James Taylor, George Strait and the Dixie Chicks.
“I knew J.D. for 54 years and we were best of friends all that time,” fellow songwriter Jack Tempchin said. “It really hurts to lose him.”
In 1973, Souther teamed with former Byrd/Flying Burrito Brother Chris Hillman and Buffalo Springfield co-founder Richie Furay to form their self-titled trio.
“J.D. was one of contemporary music’s most-gifted songwriters,” Furay said in a statement. “I am very thankful for the time we had together on this part of life's journey.”
Souther kept working through the decades, recently co-writing and appearing on stage with Weir and preparing a solo tour for later this year and another with Karla Bonoff in 2025.
“JD was a remarkable talent, and his contributions to music are immeasurable,” Stephen Bishop said. “He will be sorely missed, but his legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.”
9/18/24
