TAKING FLIGHT

Bassist Timothy B Schmit looks back on being asked to join the Eagles in 1977, just as they hit the big time.

- Neville Marten

Back in 2016, when we met Timothy B Schmit of the Eagles, he was at a bittersweet crossroads. Eagles founder member Glenn Frey had passed away not long before our interview, and the future of the Eagles was in question. But following the completion of a fine new solo album, Leap Of Faith, the Californian bassist was poised to begin a new chapter in his eventful life. He gave Neville Marten the lowdown on his years as bassist with country-rock’s highest-flying band, and how his early love of US folk act the Kingston Trio saw him sing for Steely Dan and moonlight with Crosby, Stills and Nash.

Glenn Frey’s death was a terrible shock. Does his passing mean the continuation of the Eagles on hold—or is is it over?

My answer is... I have no idea. I just don’t know… Sorry.

You seemed almost ‘custom-made’ to fit in with the Eagles. I liken it to Ronnie Wood and the Stones.

Yes, I think you’re right. I’ve often said that it was a great fit, all around. And you are the second person that’s compared that move to Ronnie’s.

Really?

Only two. I thought about it a long time ago…”

You’ve said that Glenn phoned you to offer you the job. Did you have any idea that might happen?