Jd Souther’s Personal Life, Siblings, Parents, Wife, Girlfriend, Kids, Other Family and Dating History

Jd Souther’s Personal Life, Siblings, Parents, Wife, Girlfriend, Kids, Other Family and Dating History

Parents and Early Life

JD Souther, born John David Souther on November 2, 1945, in Detroit, Michigan, was raised in Amarillo, Texas. His father, John Souther, was a jazz musician who performed under the stage name Johnny Warren¹. This musical environment significantly influenced JD’s early interest in music.

Siblings

JD Souther had two sisters².

Marriages and Relationships

Wives:

1. Alexandra Sliwin: JD Souther married Alexandra Sliwin, a member of the group Honey Ltd., in March 1969. The couple divorced in 1972³.
2. Sarah Nicholson: He married Sarah Nicholson in 2004, but they later divorced in 2010⁴.

Notable Relationships:

• Linda Ronstadt: JD Souther had a well-known relationship with singer Linda Ronstadt in the early 1970s. They collaborated on several musical projects during their time together⁵.
• Stevie Nicks: He dated Stevie Nicks in 1977⁶.
• Carole King: Souther was in a relationship with Carole King in 1976⁶.
• Kay Lenz: He dated actress Kay Lenz in 1974⁶.
• Marcia Strassman: Souther had a relationship with actress Marcia Strassman in 1974⁶.
• Judee Sill: He dated singer-songwriter Judee Sill from 1971 to 1973⁶.
• Joni Mitchell: Souther was also romantically linked to Joni Mitchell⁶.

Children

JD Souther did not have any children⁷.

Other Family

JD Souther was known to be very fond of his dogs, Layla and Bob, who were mentioned in his obituary as part of his beloved family⁷.

Personal Life

John David Souther, known as JD Souther, was born on November 2, 1945, in Detroit, Michigan. He grew up in Amarillo, Texas, where he developed a love for music at an early age. Souther was influenced by the country and rock music that was popular in Texas, as well as the jazz records his father played at home. He learned to play the guitar and began writing songs during his teenage years.

Move to Los Angeles and Early Career

In the late 1960s, Souther moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in music. He quickly became part of the burgeoning Southern California music scene. Souther formed a duo called Longbranch Pennywhistle with Glenn Frey, who would later become a founding member of the Eagles. The duo released one self-titled album in 1969, which, although not commercially successful, helped establish Souther’s presence in the music industry.

Collaborations with the Eagles

He co-wrote some of the band’s biggest hits, including:

• “Best of My Love”: A chart-topping single from the Eagles’ 1974 album “On the Border.”
• “New Kid in Town”: Featured on the Eagles’ 1976 album “Hotel California,” this song won a Grammy Award for Best Vocal Arrangement for Two or More Voices.
• “Heartache Tonight”: A hit single from the Eagles’ 1979 album “The Long Run,” which also won a Grammy Award for Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal.
• “Victim of Love”: Another track from “Hotel California,” showcasing Souther’s lyrical prowess.

Solo Career

In addition to his work with the Eagles, Souther had a successful solo career. He released several albums, including:

• “John David Souther” (1972): His debut solo album, which included the song “How Long,” later covered by the Eagles.
• “Black Rose” (1976): An album that featured contributions from Linda Ronstadt, Don Henley, and Glenn Frey.
• “You’re Only Lonely” (1979): This album included the hit single “You’re Only Lonely,” which reached No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
• “Home by Dawn” (1984): An album that blended country and rock influences.

Songwriting for Other Artists

JD Souther was also a prolific songwriter for other artists. He wrote and co-wrote songs for Linda Ronstadt, including “Faithless Love” and “Prisoner in Disguise.” His songwriting credits extend to artists like Bonnie Raitt, James Taylor, and Roy Orbison, showcasing his versatility and talent.

Acting Career

In addition to his music career, Souther pursued acting. He appeared in several television shows and films, including:

• “Thirtysomething”: A popular TV drama in which he played the character of John Dunaway.
• “Postcards from the Edge” (1990): A film adaptation of Carrie Fisher’s semi-autobiographical novel, where Souther had a supporting role.
• “Nashville”: A TV series where he played the character Watty White, a seasoned music producer.

Later Career and Legacy

JD Souther continued to make music and perform throughout his life. He released the album “If the World Was You” in 2008, which showcased his jazz influences.

Personal Life

JD Souther was known for his private nature. He was married twice, first to Alexandra Sliwin from 1969 to 1972, and later to Sarah Nicholson from 2004 until his passing.

Death

JD Souther passed away on September 17, 2024, at the age of 78. His legacy as a songwriter, musician, and actor continues to influence and inspire artists across genres.