Eagles guitarist Steuart Smith announces departure from band following Parkinson’s diagnosis
Eagles guitarist Steuart Smith has announced his departure from the band following a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease.
Smith joined Eagles in 2001 as a touring member following Don Felder’s exit from the line-up. He’s also toured with Don Henley, including on the Eagles’ musician’s 2016 world tour. Prior to joining Eagles, Smith had also collaborated with artists such as Dolly Parton and Roseanne Cash.
For health reasons, Smith has now confirmed his exit from the band. In a statement, shared with Ultimate Classic Rock, Smith said: “It is with profound regret that, due to performance issues associated with my recently diagnosed Parkinsonism, I find that I must bow out of my role with the Eagles while I can still do so gracefully.”
The guitarist added: “It’s been a great quarter of a century, and I had hoped to be able to finish out this year with the band, but I must now do what’s best for all concerned.”
Additionally, Henley, who worked closely with Smith with the Eagles and as a solo artist, shared a poignant tribute to the musician, highlighting his significant impact on the band. “The Eagles will be forever grateful for the extraordinary talents that he brought to both our recordings and live performances,” he shared.
Henley added: “Steuart will be greatly missed, but he will always be a part of our musical family. We know our many fans join us in wishing him well.”
Idol Records have since confirmed Christopher Holt, who recently joined Eagles on stage at the MSG Sphere in Las Vegas, will replace Smith in the band.
Eagles will resume their residency in Las Vegas at the MSG Sphere on February 14th and conclude on April 12th. The group previously announced their extensive farewell tour in 2023, which ended last year. It remains to be seen whether Eagles will continue to perform after their run of dates in Las Vegas finishes.
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