Eagles guitarist Glenn Frey dead at 67

GLENN Frey, who co-founded the Eagles and with frontman Don Henley became one of history’s most successful songwriting teams, has died.

Glen Frey.

GLENN Frey, a founding member and guitarist for the Eagles, has died aged 67.

“It is with the heaviest of hearts that we announce the passing of our comrade, Eagles founder, Glenn Frey, in New York City on Monday,” the Grammy Award-winning band wrote on its website.

The Rock and Roll Hall of Famer died of complications from rheumatoid arthritis, acute ulcerative colitis and pneumonia, The Eagles said.

He had been battling intestinal issues for months and had surgery in November, but his condition had deteriorated in the last few days, TMZ reports.

The group postponed by a year a December appearance to receive the prestigious Kennedy Center Lifetime Artistic Achievement award due to Frey’s health problems.

Drummer Don Henley issued a statement following the news, in which he praised his fellow musician’s work ethic, “encyclopedic” knowledge of music, and devotion to his family.

“He was like a brother to me; we were family, and like most families, there was some dysfunction. But, the bond we forged 45 years ago was never broken, even during the 14 years that the Eagles were dissolved,” Henley said in opening the statement.

He called Frey “the one who started it all.”

Brothers in arms ... Glenn Frey, Don Henley, Joe Walsh and Timothy B Schmit during a trip to Australia.. Picture: Andrew Brownbill

“He was the spark plug, the man with the plan. He had an encyclopedic knowledge of popular music and a work ethic that wouldn’t quit. He was funny, bullheaded, mercurial, generous, deeply talented and driven. He loved his wife and kids more than anything.

“We are all in a state of shock, disbelief and profound sorrow ... It will be very strange going forward in a world without him in it. But, I will be grateful, every day, that he was in my life.

“Rest in peace, my brother. You did what you set out to do, and then some.”

Wonderful words from Don Henley on Glenn Frey "It will be very strange going forward in a world without him in it." https://t.co/1jI14lDE3l

— cameron adams (@cameron_adams) January 18, 2016

Frey and Henley formed the Eagles in Los Angeles the early 1970s, along with guitarist Bernie Leadon and bassist Randy Meisner.

They would become a top act over the next decade, embodying the melodic California sound.

Frey co-wrote and sang most of the Eagles hits including Take It Easy, Tequila Sunrise, Lyin’ Eyes, and Heartache Tonight.

He also co-wrote Hotel California and Desperado with Don Henley and took home six Grammys with the band.

Frey’s solo hits include The Heat Is On and Smuggler’s Blues.

Tributes have started to flow for the legendary performer.

Dave Navarro of Jane Addiction’s fame spoke of Frey’s influence.

#TheEagles helped shape my understanding of music when I was going up. #RIPGlenn

— Dave Navarro (@DaveNavarro) January 18, 2016

Canadian singer-songwriter Ron Sexsmith tweeted “There’s gonna be a heartache tonight”.

RIP GLEN FREY from The Eagles at 67 "There's gonna be a heartache tonight" RS

— Ron Sexsmith (@RonSexsmith) January 18, 2016

Kiss guitarist Paul Stanley shared a picture of himself with Frey at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame awards.

SHOCKED to report the death of GLENN FREY. Eagle & brilliant songwriter. We shared some memories at RRHOF. Shocked.. pic.twitter.com/0uVYgaKVIT

— Paul Stanley (@PaulStanleyLive) January 18, 2016

Glenn Frey, you will be sorely missed. Thank you for all you gave us.

— Sheryl Crow (@SherylCrow) January 18, 2016

R.I. P. Glenn Frey. Deepest condolences to his family and #Eagles.

— Carole King (@Carole_King) January 18, 2016

Thanks for the amazing music you gave the world, Glenn Frey. #rip

— EliYoungBand (@EliYoungBand) January 18, 2016

RIP, Glenn Frey. Travel to the stars safely, bro. pic.twitter.com/jVDPy5zkLe

— Ryan Adams (@TheRyanAdams) January 18, 2016

"It may be rainin', but there's a rainbow above you." We love you, #Glenn Frey.

— Rita Wilson (@RitaWilson) January 18, 2016

"The only difference between boring and laid back is a million dollars." –Glenn Frey https://t.co/s9DGyxUfuP pic.twitter.com/DjK4F7x8My

— Rolling Stone (@RollingStone) January 18, 2016

One of the greatest voices, musicians, contributors and collaborators to rock n roll music has passed away. RIP Glenn Frey

— Miles Teller (@Miles_Teller) January 18, 2016

So sad to hear of the passing of Glenn Frey. I had the great pleasure of knowing him and he was beyond gracious. Praying for his family. RIP

— Carson Daly (@CarsonDaly) January 18, 2016

Originally published as Eagles guitarist Glenn Frey dead at 67