Don Felder Brings Eagles Hits to Life at Fallsview

photo by Dan Savoie

On a dark desert highway, cool wind in my hair, I journeyed to the OLG Stage at Fallsview Casino in Niagara Falls to witness rock legend Don Felder take the stage. As the former lead guitarist of The Eagles who co-wrote the iconic hit “Hotel California,” Felder’s place in rock history is undeniable. At 76 years young, Felder demonstrated that he can still captivate an audience with his exceptional guitar playing and timeless songs.

Felder opened the show with a spirited performance of “Already Gone,” immediately showcasing his signature guitar tone and skillful fretwork. His experienced backing band provided tight support, allowing Felder’s guitar to shine. The energy in the room was electric as the crowd sang along to every word.

The setlist focused primarily on classic Eagles hits that Felder either wrote or played a crucial role in shaping. From the funky groove of “One of These Nights” to the country-tinged “Peaceful Easy Feeling,” Felder demonstrated his versatility as a guitarist and songwriter. His vocals, while not an exact match for the other Eagles members, were strong and emotive throughout the night.

A delightful surprise was Felder’s soulful cover of Stevie Ray Vaughan’s “Pride and Joy.” Clearly performed out of admiration for the late blues guitar icon, Felder poured his heart into every bent note and searing lick. It was a fitting tribute that highlighted Felder’s own expressive playing style.

Deeper cuts like “Those Shoes” and “Victim of Love” were welcome additions that allowed Felder to showcase his guitar prowess. His tone was impeccable, ranging from crisp and clean to overdriven and raw. Watching his fingers dance effortlessly across the fretboard, it’s no wonder he earned the nickname “Fingers” Felder.

Between songs, Felder shared stories about his time in The Eagles, offering a glimpse behind the scenes of one of rock’s most legendary bands. He spoke candidly about the creative process, the music business, and the cultural impact of the group. These anecdotes added depth and context to the music, making the concert feel intimate and special.

Felder also took a moment to pay tribute to the late Glenn Frey, acknowledging their complicated history but ultimately expressing gratitude and respect. It was a classy gesture that spoke to Felder’s character and the enduring legacy of The Eagles.

A standout moment was Felder’s solo track “Heavy Metal (Takin’ a Ride)” from the animated film Heavy Metal. The song’s driving riff and apocalyptic lyrics showcased a different side of Felder’s songwriting and made for an exhilarating live experience. It’s a shame this gem is often overlooked in his catalog.

As the main set drew to a close, Felder tore through a greatest hits medley of “Heartache Tonight,” “Life in the Fast Lane,” and of course, “Hotel California.” The dueling guitar solos in “Hotel California” were a stunning display of phrasing and melody, with Felder’s fingers telling a story all their own. It was a breathtaking exhibition of musical prowess that left the audience in awe.

If there was one minor critique, it would be the lack of deep cuts and a proper encore. With such an extensive and rich catalog to draw from, it would have been thrilling to hear Felder dust off a rarely played Eagles tune or one of his solo compositions. That said, the songs he did perform were executed flawlessly and with heart.

Throughout the show, Felder was backed by a talented group of musicians who supported him with skill and sensitivity. In a classy move, Felder took time to introduce each band member, highlighting their accomplishments and displaying their names on the video screen. It was a small gesture that spoke volumes about Felder’s character and appreciation for his fellow musicians.

As the house lights came up and the final notes of “Hotel California” faded away, it was evident that Don Felder is more than just a former Eagle – he’s a genuine guitar hero and living legend. His Niagara Falls performance was an impressive showcase of rock guitar and a celebration of the enduring power of classic songwriting. Felder may have left The Eagles’ nest long ago, but his musical spirit continues to soar.

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