Randy Meisner, founding member and bassist of the famous band The Eagles, has passed away in Los Angeles at the age of 77. The official statement from The Eagles revealed that Meisner died as a result of complications from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
Throughout his life, Meisner faced various personal and addiction problems that significantly impacted his career and personal life. Alcoholism was a well-known struggle for the musician, affecting his physical, emotional, and professional health. His addiction even led to difficulties performing on stage and interacting with band members, ultimately contributing to his decision to leave The Eagles in 1977.
Even after leaving the band, Meisner continued to battle with alcoholism and faced legal and personal problems associated with his drinking. Concerns from friends, family, and fans were always present due to his inability to maintain stability and productivity.
Tragically, in 2016, Meisner’s wife, Lana Rae, died from a gunshot wound to the head. The incident occurred while she was handling a rifle that was being cleaned at their home. Initial reports suggested that she had shot herself following an argument with the singer, but Meisner claimed the death was accidental. The incident had a profound impact on Meisner’s life and may have contributed to his mental health struggles.
Mental health problems, including episodes of depression, were also a part of Meisner’s life. Although not widely discussed, those close to him have stated that his wife’s suicide worsened his mental health, and he was also diagnosed as bipolar.
In addition to his personal struggles, Meisner faced legal disputes with his former bandmates in The Eagles. These disputes involved issues related to royalties, copyright, and contractual matters, although they were eventually resolved.
Overall, Randy Meisner’s life was marked by addiction problems, his wife’s tragic suicide, battles with depression, and legal issues. Despite the challenges he faced, Meisner is remembered for his contributions to The Eagles, particularly the iconic song “Hotel California.”