BY JOHN GARCIA

The Eagles’ The Long Goodbye Final Tour stop at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans on February 17, 2024, was a bittersweet celebration of decades of iconic music. With special guest Steely Dan, the night was a nostalgic trip through classic rock history, featuring some of The Eagles’ greatest hits in what could be one of their final performances.

For those unfamiliar, The Eagles are one of the best-selling bands of all time, forming in Los Angeles in 1971. Known for their harmonious blend of rock, country, and folk, they defined the sound of the 1970s with hits like “Hotel California,” “Take It Easy,” and “Life in the Fast Lane.” The band’s founding members—Glenn Frey, Don Henley, Bernie Leadon, and Randy Meisner—paved the way for a legacy of classic albums. After Frey’s passing in 2016, Henley continued to lead the band along with long-time members Joe Walsh and Timothy B. Schmit, alongside Vince Gill and Glenn’s son, Deacon Frey.

Steely Dan opened the night with their signature jazz-rock sound, playing hits like “Reelin’ in the Years” and “Peg,” setting the tone for the night of legends.

The Eagles kicked off their set with a harmonious cover of “Seven Bridges Road,” before launching into their catalog of timeless tracks. Classics like “Take It Easy” and “Lyin’ Eyes” filled the arena, each song a reminder of the band’s impeccable harmonies and timeless appeal. Joe Walsh brought his signature energy to the stage with “In the City” and his solo hit “Life’s Been Good,” while Don Henley delivered an emotional performance of “The Boys of Summer,” dedicated to their late friend Jimmy Buffett.

The band had a lighthearted moment during “Take It to the Limit,” as Henley playfully called out a fan for standing up, encouraging them to sit and enjoy the show. Walsh’s performance of “Rocky Mountain Way,” complete with a “Purple Haze” guitar tag, electrified the audience as he showed off his legendary guitar skills.

The encore was a perfect close to the evening, with the iconic “Hotel California” followed by a powerful rendition of “Desperado.” The band finished the night with “Heartache Tonight,” sending the crowd off with one last burst of energy and nostalgia.

The Eagles’ final tour stop in New Orleans was a masterclass in classic rock, filled with heartfelt moments, stellar musicianship, and a sense of legacy. For fans, this was more than just a concert—it was a chance to say goodbye to a band whose music has shaped generations.