Eagles Guitarist Rushed Off Stage While Suffering A Medical Emergency

Former Eagles guitarist Don Felder experienced a sudden medical emergency while performing onstage Thursday, requiring immediate medical attention. The legendary 77-year-old musician was in the middle of playing the band’s classic Tequila Sunrise during the Rock Legends cruise when he unexpectedly stopped strumming and gazed offstage per the Daily Mail.

Looking unsteady, a crew member quickly stepped in to support him as he attempted to speak into the microphone. Appearing unsteady, Felder was swiftly helped offstage by his bandmates as the audience cheered him on with words of encouragement.

On Friday, his team provided an Instagram story update, explaining that he had been suffering from dehydration but was now “much better” after receiving medical care aboard the cruise, which travels between Miami and CocoCay, Bahamas.

In a statement, they expressed gratitude for the support, saying, “We appreciate everyone’s concern regarding Don Felder’s sudden pause during his performance last night on the Rock Legends Cruise.”

According to US Weekly, Felder will be taking some time off to recuperate.

Felder was among several classic rock legends headlining the Rock Legends Cruise, which departed from Miami on Wednesday, February 12, and is now en route to CocoCay in the Bahamas. Other major acts set to perform aboard the Independence of the Seas before it docks on Monday, February 17, include Alice Cooper, Styx, John Waite, and Foghat.

Meanwhile, Eagles fans recently received bittersweet news as the band’s longtime touring guitarist, Steuart Smith—who stepped in for Felder in 2001—announced his retirement after being diagnosed with Parkinsonism, a condition characterized by movement symptoms commonly associated with Parkinson’s disease and similar disorders.

Don Felder, born on September 21, 1947, in Gainesville, Florida, is an American rock guitarist, songwriter, and singer best known for his time with the Eagles. He joined the band in 1974 and played a pivotal role in shaping their signature sound, particularly through his guitar work and songwriting contributions.

Felder co-wrote one of the Eagles’ most iconic songs, Hotel California, crafting its legendary guitar riff. His intricate playing, often alongside Joe Walsh, helped define the band’s rock edge during their most successful years. He also contributed to hits like Victim of Love and Those Shoes.

After tensions within the band, Felder was dismissed from the Eagles in 2001, leading to a legal battle over royalties and creative rights. He later chronicled his experiences in his 2008 memoir, Heaven and Hell: My Life in the Eagles (1974–2001).

Beyond the Eagles, Felder has enjoyed a solo career, releasing albums like Airborne (1983) and American Rock ‘n’ Roll (2019). He continues to perform, often headlining classic rock events. His technical skill and contributions to rock music are legendary.