Facts about Bernie Leadon: age, family and career of the Eagles singer after leaving the band …

July 3, 2024, 12:39 p.m.

Bernie Leadon is best known as a founding member of the Eagles.

His musical journey began in Minneapolis, where he learned to play banjo and guitar and showed talent early on. In the 1960s, he joined the Flying Burrito Brothers and contributed to the rise of country rock.

Leadon’s career took a decisive turn when he co-founded the Eagles in 1971. As a versatile instrumentalist and songwriter, he played a crucial role in developing their characteristic sound. Hits such as “Witchy Woman” and “Earlybird” bear his creative signature.

After leaving the Eagles in 1975, Bernie continued to make waves in the music world, working with artists such as Linda Ronstadt and Nitty Gritty Dirt Band.

His passion for music never waned and he returned to the Eagles for their History of the Eagles Tour in 2013 and thrilled the fans.

1. How old is Bernie Leadon?

   

   Bernie Leadon was born on July 19, 1947 and is 76 years old in 2023.

   He comes from the music city of Minneapolis, Minnesota. His parents, Dr. Bernard Leadon Sr. and Ann Teresa (née Sweetser), encouraged his early love of music. His father was an aircraft engineer and his mother was a nurse.

2. How did he start his musical career and when did he co-found the Eagles?

   

   Bernie Leadon’s musical journey began in his teens when he picked up banjo and guitar and quickly demonstrated his talent.

   He immersed himself in the vibrant folk and bluegrass scene of the 1960s, playing with various local bands. His breakthrough came when he joined the Flying Burrito Brothers, a pioneering group in the country-rock genre. This experience honed his skills and broadened his musical horizons.

   In 1971, Bernie co-founded the Eagles, bringing together his diverse musical influences to shape the band’s distinctive sound.

   Along with Glenn Frey, Don Henley and Randy Meisner, Bernie’s versatile musicality was crucial to their early success (Don Felder and Timothy B. Schmit joined later).

   With hits like “Take It Easy” and “Peaceful Easy Feeling,” the Eagles quickly rose to fame and established themselves as one of the greatest rock bands of all time.

3. Why did he leave the Eagles and what did he do next?

   

   Bernie Leadon left the Eagles in 1975 to take a break from the intense touring schedule and growing creative tensions within the band.

   He felt the need to explore other musical avenues and return to a more relaxed lifestyle.

   After his departure, Bernie did not stay far away from the music scene. He continued to contribute his talent to various projects and worked with renowned artists such as Linda Ronstadt and Emmylou Harris.

   Bernie also joined the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, further cementing his reputation in the country rock genre. His solo work and collaborations allowed him to have a solid presence in the industry while also giving him the freedom to experiment with different styles.

   In 2013, Bernie thrilled fans by returning to the Eagles. History of the Eagles Tour, which demonstrates his continued passion for music and his lasting connection to the band.

4. Is Bernie Leadon married and does he have children?

   Bernie Leadon maintains a relatively private personal life, so details about his marital status and children are not publicly disclosed.

   He was previously in a relationship with Patti Davis, the daughter of US President Ronald Reagan.