Don Felder

Don Felder is an American rock musician and songwriter, best known as the lead guitarist of the Eagles from 1974 to 1980 and again from 1994 to 2001. He was a key contributor to the Eagles' signature sound and wrote the music for their iconic hit "Hotel California." Prior to joining the Eagles, Felder played in various bands in Florida and gave guitar lessons, notably teaching a young Tom Petty. After moving to Los Angeles in the early 1970s, he worked as a session musician before being invited to join the Eagles, where his guitar work helped define their evolution from country rock to a harder rock sound. Following his departure from the Eagles, Felder pursued a solo career and released multiple albums including "Airborne" (1983) and "Road to Forever" (2012). His 2008 memoir "Heaven and Hell: My Life in the Eagles (1974-2001)" detailed his experiences with the band and became a New York Times bestseller. In addition to his musical career, Felder has been recognized for his technical innovation and guitar expertise. His distinctive double-neck guitar work and intricate harmonized solos, particularly on "Hotel California," have influenced generations of rock guitarists and earned him a place in the Musicians Hall of Fame.

Readers praise Felder's memoir "Heaven and Hell" for its detailed insider perspective on the Eagles and music industry dynamics. Many reviews note his honest portrayal of band relationships and the dark side of success. His technical descriptions of recording sessions and songwriting resonate with musician readers. Liked: - Clear, straightforward writing style - Behind-the-scenes stories about hit songs - Balance between personal story and band history - Guitar technique explanations Disliked: - Some readers found him bitter about his Eagles departure - Repetitive descriptions of conflicts - Less coverage of his pre/post-Eagles career - Focus on negative aspects of band dynamics Ratings: Amazon: 4.5/5 (1,200+ reviews) Goodreads: 3.9/5 (2,800+ ratings) One reader noted: "Felder presents his side without excessive drama while acknowledging his own mistakes." Another wrote: "The technical details about recording 'Hotel California' alone make this worth reading." Some critique his "score-settling tone" and wish for more about his musical development outside the Eagles.

Heaven and Hell: My Life in the Eagles (2008) A memoir chronicling Felder's experiences as lead guitarist of the Eagles from 1974 to 2001, including his contributions to their music, internal band dynamics, and eventual departure from the group.

Tom Petty Fellow Gainesville musician who shared similar roots with Felder and went on to massive success with the Heartbreakers. His autobiography "Petty: The Biography" offers parallel insights into the 1970s California rock scene and the music industry.

Glenn Frey Co-founder of the Eagles who wrote alongside Felder during the band's peak years and experienced the same era of California rock. His story intersects with Felder's throughout the Eagles' history and provides a different perspective on their shared experiences.

Joe Walsh Eagles guitarist who collaborated closely with Felder on their dual-guitar attack and shared similar experiences in the band. His autobiography "Ordinary Average Guy" covers similar territory in terms of rock stardom and personal struggles.

Stephen Stills Guitar virtuoso from Florida who blazed a similar path from the South to California's music scene. His career with Buffalo Springfield and Crosby, Stills & Nash parallels Felder's journey through the same musical landscape.

Bernie Leadon Original Eagles guitarist whose transition from country to rock music mirrors Felder's evolution. His background in country rock and involvement in the early California music scene provides context similar to Felder's experiences.