Don Felder discusses medical emergencies, Eagles recording sessions, and his million dollar guitar in Guitar World interview.
At 77 years old, Don Felder, the former Eagles guitarist, faced a health scare in February 2025 when he collapsed on stage due to dehydration. However, this incident didn’t deter him from continuing to pursue his musical career with a sense of urgency. Despite his age, Felder remains determined to work and produce music at a high level while he still has good health and motivation, as he expressed, “I’ve got to work and produce as much as I possibly can while I’m still in good health, and still happy and inspired by it.”
One of Felder’s recent projects, “The Vault – Fifty Years Of Music,” showcases lost demos brought back to life and re-recorded classic Heavy Metal tracks. As he embarks on this milestone in his career, Felder’s approach to music appears somewhat whimsical and romantic, yet his undeniable talent shines through. Known for his iconic guitar solos on songs like the Eagles’ hits “One Of These Nights” and “Hotel California,” Felder’s improvisational nature often guides his playing, even though many of his solos may seem pre-composed. Felder explains his approach as essentially entering his studio blindly and letting his creativity take over to see what emerges, demonstrating his versatility in the creative process.
Beyond his solo endeavors, Felder’s association with the Eagles remains an integral part of his legacy despite leaving the band under difficult circumstances in the early 2000s. Nevertheless, he maintains a positive attitude and continues to enjoy his musical journey, especially during his downtime in sunny Malibu. While the Eagles currently engage in a residency in Las Vegas following their ‘Long Goodbye’ tour, Felder shows no signs of slowing down and remains committed to rocking out for as long as he can.
Reflecting on his life and career, Felder expresses gratitude for the opportunities he’s had in the music industry and remains motivated to keep pushing boundaries and producing quality material. His live shows continue to draw crowds, and his enthusiasm for writing and recording new music remains unwavering. Felder’s philosophy revolves around rocking out until the very end, as he states, “I’m going to rock till I drop,” signifying his unwavering passion for music and dedication to his craft.
Despite facing a health scare on stage earlier in the year, Felder’s resilience and commitment to pushing forward in his music career demonstrate his unwavering determination. His recent projects and continued success in the music industry reflect his enduring passion for creating music that resonates with audiences worldwide. As Don Felder continues to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of the music industry, one thing remains certain – his legacy as a legendary guitarist and musician is cemented in music history, and he shows no signs of slowing down.