3 Iconic Songs That Eagles Didn’t Think Would Become Hits

Why It Matters

The stories highlight how artist assumptions can miss market potential, underscoring the unpredictable nature of hit‑making and the value of external influences such as covers and radio play for legacy acts.

Key Takeaways

• Desperado never released as single, later became classic.
• Linda Ronstadt cover boosted "Desperado" popularity.
• "Best Of My Love" reluctant release, hit No.1 Billboard.
• First Eagles #1 single came from unexpected track.
• "Take It To The Limit" earned gold, despite low expectations.

Pulse Analysis

When the Eagles debuted in the early 1970s, they were already shaping the soft‑rock landscape, yet even they could not predict which songs would endure. "Desperado," a plaintive ballad from their 1973 album, was omitted from single releases, but Linda Ronstadt’s rendition sparked renewed interest, turning the track into a cultural touchstone. This illustrates how cover versions can resurrect overlooked material, granting it a second life that often eclipses the original promotion strategy.

"Best Of My Love" offers a contrasting narrative. Despite Glenn Frey’s hesitation, the song was eventually issued as the third single from *On The Border* and surged to the top of the Billboard Hot 100, delivering the Eagles their inaugural chart‑topping hit. The delayed release generated a buzz that amplified radio demand, proving that strategic timing and listener response can override internal doubts. The single’s success cemented the band’s commercial credibility and broadened their audience beyond the country‑rock niche.

The third case, "Take It To The Limit," showcases the power of internal songwriting dynamics. Randy Meisner’s composition, initially viewed as a low‑stakes effort, became the group’s first Certified Gold record, signaling a pivotal moment in their ascent to classic‑rock royalty. The track’s triumph, achieved without a deliberate hit‑making formula, reinforces a broader industry lesson: authentic artistic expression, even when unplanned, can resonate powerfully with listeners and drive substantial sales. Together, these three songs underscore the unpredictable alchemy of music markets, reminding artists and labels alike to stay open to unexpected pathways to success.