Introduction
A Reluctant Number One: The History of Eagles’ “Best of My Love”
“Best of My Love,” a song synonymous with the Eagles’ smooth harmonies and soft-rock sound, boasts a history as intriguing as its melody. Released in 1974 as the third single from their album “On the Border,” the track’s journey to the top of the charts is filled with surprising turns and a touch of serendipity.
Believe it or not, the band itself wasn’t initially sold on “Best of My Love” as a single. Don Henley, one of the song’s writers, stumbled upon the unique guitar tuning while jamming, and the lyrics reflected a blend of heartbreak and introspection, possibly inspired by a past relationship [2]. However, guitarist Glenn Frey reportedly preferred a more rock-oriented direction for the Eagles [3].
The record label, Asylum Records, also had doubts. They felt the song’s length, mellow tempo, and prominent steel guitar wouldn’t translate well as a single [3]. However, a twist of fate intervened. A DJ named Jim Higgs at WKMI radio in Michigan defied the label’s reservations and started playing “Best of My Love” on his show, favoring it over the album’s official singles [1]. Listeners responded positively, and the song’s popularity began to snowball.
As airplay for “Best of My Love” grew across the country, it defied industry expectations. The song climbed the charts, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in March 1975, becoming the Eagles’ first chart-topping hit [1]. It even reigned supreme on the easy listening chart, solidifying its appeal to a broad audience.
“Best of My Love” wasn’t just a commercial success; it marked a turning point for the Eagles. The song’s critical acclaim and mainstream recognition established them as a powerhouse in the burgeoning soft-rock genre. It paved the way for future hits like “Hotel California” and cemented their place in music history.
So, the next time you hear the opening notes of “Best of My Love,” remember the unlikely journey it took to become a classic. From a chance encounter with a new guitar tuning to a rebellious DJ’s intuition, the song’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the unexpected turns that can shape a musical legacy.