Bernard Matthew Leadon III, known as Bernie Leadon, was born on July 19, 1947, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He is an American musician, songwriter, and singer, known for his multi-instrumental skills including guitar, banjo, mandolin, steel guitar, and dobro. Leadon's early musical career began with the bluegrass outfit the Scottsville Squirrel Barkers in San Diego, California. He became part of the emerging folk-rock scene, joining notable groups such as Hearts & Flowers, Dillard & Clark, and most prominently The Flying Burrito Brothers with Gram Parsons and Chris Hillman, helping to define the country-rock sound. In 1971, he joined the Eagles, contributing to their debut album Eagles, which featured hit singles "Take It Easy" and "Peaceful Easy Feeling". He played a pivotal role in shaping the band's early country-rock sound. Notable songs from his tenure include "Tequila Sunrise" and "Desperado". Leadon left the Eagles in 1975, citing health reasons and frustration with the band's direction. His solo career includes albums Natural Progressions with Michael Georgiades (1977) and his first solo Mirror (2004). He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of the Eagles in 1998. Leadon collaborated with artists like Linda Ronstadt, Emmylou Harris, and Chris Hillman, and occasionally participating in country, bluegrass, and folk projects. In 2013, he briefly reunited with the Eagles for their History of the Eagles anniversary tour. In October 2025 was released his sophomore solo album, Too Late to Be Cool.
