As both an Eagle and as a solo artist, Don Henley is one of the more polarizing figures in the classic-rock pantheon. The Eagles get little credit (about as much as Poco) for their pioneering role in the country/rock genre, and Henley’s fabulously successful solo hits have been held up, again and again, as emblems of the sins of the ’80s.
What no one can question, however, is a career of consistent hitmaking and a large international fanbase that cares little about the ups and downs of critical reputation. And there was a time, kids, when Mr. Henley was quite highly regarded by critics, both for the cultural acumen of such songs as “Hotel California,” “Dirty Laundry” and “Boys of Summer” and for the legendarily high quality of his self-produced song demos.
Eight-time Grammy-winner Don Henley performs at the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts on Saturday, September 10 at 8 p.m. Tickets cost $71, $91, $111, $125 and $141 for reserved seating and $37.50 for general admission to the Lawn. Buy tickets at www.bethelwoodscenter.org, www.ticketmaster.com or by phone at (800) 745-3000. The Bethel Woods Center for the Arts is located at 200 Hurd Road in Bethel.