Don Henley is a legendary American singer, songwriter, and drummer. He is best known as a founding member of the iconic rock band The Eagles. His full name is Donald Hugh Henley. He was born on July 22, 1947. As of 2026, his age is 79 years old. He was born in Gilmer, Texas, USA.
Henley was the drummer and co-lead vocalist for the Eagles. He sang lead on classics like “Hotel California,” “Desperado,” and “Life in the Fast Lane.” He launched a successful solo career in 1982 with hits like “Dirty Laundry” and “The Boys of Summer.” His solo albums include I Can’t Stand Still, Building the Perfect Beast, and The End of the Innocence. He records under labels like Asylum, Geffen, and Capitol.
He is a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee (class of 1998). His estimated net worth is $250 million as of 2026. He earns from music royalties, touring, and songwriting. This article shares his full bio, career, and lasting legacy.
Don Henley Wiki/Bio
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Donald Hugh Henley |
| Stage Name | Don Henley |
| Age (2026) | 79 years |
| Birth Date | July 22, 1947 |
| Birthplace | Gilmer, Texas, USA |
| Height | 5 ft 10 in (178 cm) |
| Weight | 175 lb (79.4 kg) |
| Profession | Singer, Songwriter, Musician, Drummer |
| Career Start | 1970 (with the Eagles) |
| Famous Works | “Hotel California,” “Desperado,” “Dirty Laundry,” “The Boys of Summer” |
| Albums / Projects | I Can’t Stand Still (1982), Building the Perfect Beast (1984), The End of the Innocence (1989), Inside Job (2000), Cass County (2015) |
| Record Label | Asylum, Geffen, Capitol Records |
| Family | Parents: Hughlene and C.J. Henley |
| Marital Status | Married to Sharon Summerall (m. 1995) |
| Children | 3: Annabel, Julia, Will |
| Achievements | 6 Grammy Awards (with Eagles), 2 Grammy Awards (solo), Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (1998) |
| Net Worth | $250 million |
| Income Sources | Music royalties, touring, solo albums, songwriting, real estate |
| Eye Color | Blue |
| Hair Color | Dark Brown |
| Body Type / Build | Average |
| Shoe Size | 10 (US) |
| Chest Size | Not publicly listed |
| Waist Size | Not publicly listed |
| Biceps Size | Not publicly listed |
| Skin Tone | Fair |
Don Henley Real Name
Don Henley’s full birth name is Donald Hugh Henley. He uses the shortened Don Henley professionally. Donald is a classic Scottish name. Hugh was a family name. He is proud of his Texas heritage.
He has never used a stage name. His real name appears on all his albums. He signed contracts as Donald Hugh Henley. His name is associated with rock greatness. Fans know him simply as Don.
His name is etched in music history. It appears alongside other Eagles legends. His real name adds a personal touch. He is known by it worldwide. His identity is authentic and strong.
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Real Name | Donald Hugh Henley |
| First Name | Donald |
| Middle Name | Hugh |
| Surname | Henley |
| Name Origin | Scottish / English |
Don Henley Early Life and Education
Don Henley was born in Gilmer, Texas. He grew up in the small town of Linden, Texas. His family was working-class and hardworking. His father was a farmer and auto parts salesman. His mother was an elementary school teacher.
He attended Linden-Kildare High School. He initially played football but was too small. His coach suggested he quit. He joined the school band instead. He first played the trombone. He then moved to the percussion section.
After high school in 1965, he attended Stephen F. Austin State University. He then transferred to North Texas State University. He left school in 1969. His father was dying of heart disease. He returned home to be with his family.
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Birthplace | Gilmer, Texas |
| Raised In | Linden, Texas |
| High School | Linden-Kildare High School |
| College | Stephen F. Austin State University, North Texas State University |
| Left College | 1969 |
Don Henley Parents and Siblings
Don Henley’s father was Con Junell “C.J.” Henley. He worked as a farmer and auto parts salesman. His mother was Hughlene (née McWhorter) Henley. She was an elementary school teacher. His parents had English, Scottish and Irish ancestry.
He had sisters, but their names are not widely known. He was the only son in the family. His father passed away in 1972. His mother passed away in 2003. His parents were very supportive of his music.
His family shaped his character and values. He remains close to his Texas roots. His parents’ influence is seen in his songwriting. He often speaks fondly of his childhood. His family background is humble and hardworking.
| Family Member | Relationship | Occupation / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| C.J. Henley | Father | Farmer, auto parts salesman |
| Hughlene Henley | Mother | Elementary school teacher |
| Sisters | Siblings | Not publicly named |
Don Henley Wife or Girlfriend
Don Henley is married to Sharon Summerall. She is a former model from Texas. They married on May 20, 1995. Their wedding was star-studded. Performers included Sting, Bruce Springsteen, and Billy Joel.
Before Sharon, he dated Stevie Nicks. He was also engaged to Maren Jensen. He never went through with those engagements. He felt he wasn’t ready for marriage. He finally settled down with Sharon.
They have three children together. Their names are Annabel, Julia, and Will. Sharon has multiple sclerosis. Henley supports her through her health struggles. Their family is very important to him.
| Relationship Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Spouse Name | Sharon Summerall |
| Marriage Date | May 20, 1995 |
| Previous Relationships | Stevie Nicks, Maren Jensen |
| Children | 3 (Annabel, Julia, Will) |
Don Henley Age, Height, Weight and Physical Appearance
In 2026, Don Henley is 79 years old. He was born on July 22, 1947. His height is 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm). His weight is 175 lb (79.4 kg). He has an average body type.
He has blue eyes and dark brown hair. His hair is now grey with age. He has a fair skin tone. He looks healthy for his age. He maintains a musician’s lifestyle.
He does not focus on fitness much. His passion is music, not the gym. He dresses in classic rock style. He often wears jeans and leather jackets. His look is timeless and cool.
| Physical Attribute | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Age (2026) | 79 years |
| Height | 5 ft 10 in (178 cm) |
| Weight | 175 lb (79.4 kg) |
| Eye Color | Blue |
| Hair Color | Dark Brown / Grey |
| Body Type | Average |
| Shoe Size | 10 (US) |
| Skin Tone | Fair |
Don Henley Before Fame
Before fame, Don Henley was a struggling musician. He played in local Texas bands. His first band was The Four Speeds. He wrote a song called “Hurtin’” for them. The band later became Felicity.
He then joined a band called Shiloh. Country star Kenny Rogers helped them. They released a few singles. The band moved to Los Angeles in 1970. Henley was determined to make it big.
In LA, he met Glenn Frey. They became part of Linda Ronstadt’s backing band. They decided to form their own band. That band became the Eagles. His hard work finally paid off.
| Before Fame Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| First Band | The Four Speeds |
| Early Song | “Hurtin’” |
| Band with Kenny Rogers | Shiloh |
| Move to LA | 1970 |
| Met Glenn Frey | 1971 |
Don Henley Career
Don Henley’s career began with the Eagles in 1971. They signed a record deal with Asylum Records. The band became one of the best-selling American bands. Henley sang lead on many hits. These include “Desperado,” “Hotel California,” and “Life in the Fast Lane”.
The Eagles disbanded in 1980. Henley launched his solo career in 1982. His debut album was I Can’t Stand Still. It featured the hit “Dirty Laundry”. His second solo album Building the Perfect Beast (1984) was a major success. It included “The Boys of Summer” and “All She Wants to Do Is Dance”.
The Eagles reunited in 1994. They released new music and toured worldwide. Henley continued his solo work too. He released Inside Job in 2000 and Cass County in 2015. His career spans over five decades. He is a true rock icon.
| Career Milestone | Year/Details |
|---|---|
| Eagles Formed | 1971 |
| Eagles Breakup | 1980 |
| Solo Debut Album | I Can’t Stand Still (1982) |
| “Dirty Laundry” Released | 1982 |
| “The Boys of Summer” Released | 1984 |
| Eagles Reunion | 1994 |
| Rock and Roll Hall of Fame | 1998 |
| Final Solo Album | Cass County (2015) |
Don Henley Social Media Presence
Don Henley is active on Instagram and Facebook. His Instagram handle is @donhenley. He posts about tours and new music. He shares photos with fans and family. He has a modest following.
He is not on Twitter (X) actively. He uses social media to promote concerts. He interacts with fans occasionally. His posts are professional and positive. He does not engage in drama.
His official website is donhenley.com. Fans can find tour dates there. He also sells merchandise. His social media is active and engaging. He values his fan connection.
| Platform | Handle | Followers (2026) |
|---|---|---|
| @donhenley | Not publicly listed | |
| Don Henley | Not publicly listed | |
| Website | donhenley.com | N/A |
Don Henley Net Worth
As of 2026, Don Henley’s net worth is $250 million. He earned most from the Eagles and solo work. The Eagles are the best-selling American band in history. “Hotel California” alone earns millions yearly. He also earns from touring.
His solo albums add to his wealth. He sells merchandise at concerts. He also earns from songwriting royalties. He owns the rights to his music catalog. He is the fourth-wealthiest drummer in the world.
He invested in real estate wisely. He owns a $11.8 million mansion in Dallas. He also owns a Spanish-style bungalow in West Hollywood. He lives a comfortable life. His net worth is stable and growing.
| Income Source | Estimated Earnings |
|---|---|
| Eagles Royalties | Significant |
| Solo Music | Substantial |
| Touring | Substantial |
| Real Estate | Valuable |
| Total Net Worth | $250 million |
Don Henley Legacy and Impact
Don Henley left a huge mark on rock music. He was the drummer and co-lead vocalist of the Eagles. His signature voice shaped the 1970s. He co-wrote “Hotel California,” one of the greatest songs ever. That song is timeless and iconic.
He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1998. The Eagles have sold over 150 million albums worldwide. They have won six Grammy Awards. In 2008, Rolling Stone ranked him the 87th-greatest singer of all time. He is respected by peers and fans.
His solo work is also critically acclaimed. He has sold over 10 million solo albums. He has won two Grammy Awards as a solo artist. He is also a philanthropist. He founded the Walden Woods Project for environmental conservation. His legacy is secure and lasting.
| Legacy Metric | Stat |
|---|---|
| Years with Eagles | 1971–1980, 1994–present |
| Eagles Albums | 7 studio albums |
| Rock and Roll Hall of Fame | 1998 |
| Rolling Stone Ranking | 87th-greatest singer (2008) |
| Iconic Song | “Hotel California” |
Don Henley Nationality and Religion
Don Henley holds American nationality. He was born in Texas, USA. He is proud of his American identity. He has English, Scottish and Irish ancestry. His roots are European.
His religion is listed as “Other”. He was raised in a Christian household. He rarely discusses religion now. He focuses on music and activism. He respects all faiths and beliefs.
He celebrates American holidays. He enjoys Christmas with his family. He is a secular person in public. His identity is musical first. His values are universal and kind.
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | English, Scottish, Irish |
| Religion | Other (Private) |
| Current Residence | Dallas, Texas |
Don Henley Future Plans and Goals
Don Henley continues to tour and record. He released Cass County in 2015. He may release new music soon. He loves performing live for fans. He shows no signs of retirement.
He also focuses on his activism. He continues his work with the Walden Woods Project. He wants to protect the environment. He also supports political causes. He is a dedicated activist.
He enjoys family time with his wife. He supports his children’s careers. He also spends time at his Dallas home. His future is bright and active. He will always be a rock star.
| Future Plan | Details |
|---|---|
| New Music | Possible new album |
| Touring | Continues live performances |
| Activism | Walden Woods Project |
| Family | Spending time with loved ones |
Don Henley Awards and Achievements
Don Henley has won many awards. He has won 6 Grammy Awards with the Eagles. He has won 2 Grammy Awards as a solo artist. He has also won 5 MTV Video Music Awards.
He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1998. He received a Kennedy Center Honor. Combined with the Eagles and as a solo artist, he has released 25 top 40 singles on the Billboard Hot 100. His achievements are countless.
His greatest achievement is “Hotel California.” It is one of Rolling Stone’s top songs. His songwriting is legendary. He is respected by all musicians. His achievements are well-deserved.
| Award / Achievement | Year / Count |
|---|---|
| Grammy Awards (with Eagles) | 6 |
| Grammy Awards (solo) | 2 |
| MTV Video Music Awards | 5 |
| Rock and Roll Hall of Fame | 1998 |
| Kennedy Center Honor | 2016 |
| Top 40 Singles | 25 |
Don Henley Business Ventures
Don Henley’s main business is music. He owns the rights to his music catalog. He earns from royalties and streaming. He also sells merchandise at shows. His brand is strong and recognizable.
He has invested in real estate. He owns a $11.8 million mansion in Dallas. He also owns a $2.2 million bungalow in West Hollywood. He bought a $4.3 million property for his son. He is a smart investor.
He is also an activist. He founded the Walden Woods Project. That is a non-profit organization. He is not a corporate figure. His business is his art and his causes.
| Business | Role / Ownership |
|---|---|
| Music Catalog | Owner |
| Real Estate | Property owner |
| Walden Woods Project | Founder |
| Merchandise | Licensing deals |
Don Henley Fashion and Brand
Don Henley’s fashion is classic rock. He wears jeans, leather jackets, and boots. He often wears sunglasses on stage. His look is timeless and cool. He is not a trendsetter.
His brand is musical excellence. He is known for his powerful voice. His name is associated with “Hotel California.”. He is a Rock and Roll Hall of Famer. His brand is authentic and respected.
He lets his music speak for itself. He is not a fashion icon. But his style is iconic in rock. He is a true rock musician. His image is consistent and strong.
| Fashion Item | Signature |
|---|---|
| Leather Jackets | Classic rock |
| Jeans | Casual |
| Sunglasses | Stage look |
| Boots | Cowboy style |
Don Henley Public Image
Don Henley is seen as a rock legend. He is respected for his talent. He has a clean public image. He has no major scandals. He is known for his professionalism.
He is also seen as an activist. He fights for environmental causes. He is a dedicated family man. He is humble and grounded. His public image is positive overall.
Some fans see him as a curmudgeon. He is known for being outspoken. But he is also principled. He stands up for what he believes in. His public image is complex but admired.
| Public Perception | Rating (out of 10) |
|---|---|
| Musical Talent | 10 |
| Professionalism | 9 |
| Activism | 9 |
| Controversy Level | 2 |
| Fan Respect | 9 |
Don Henley Category Section
Don Henley is a rock musician, singer, and songwriter. According to the category rule, he falls under Singer / Music Artist. Therefore, we present his songs and discography in bullet points.
Don Henley Songs List
Eagles Songs (Lead Vocals / Co-wrote):
- “Witchy Woman” (1972)
- “Desperado” (1973)
- “Best of My Love” (1974)
- “One of These Nights” (1975)
- “Hotel California” (1976)
- “Life in the Fast Lane” (1976)
- “Wasted Time” (1976)
- “The Long Run” (1979)
- “Heartache Tonight” (1979)
- “I Can’t Tell You Why” (1979)
- “Seven Bridges Road” (1980, live)
- “Get Over It” (1994)
- “Love Will Keep Us Alive” (1994)
- “Hole in the World” (2003)
Solo Songs:
- “Dirty Laundry” (1982)
- “Johnny Can’t Read” (1982)
- “The Boys of Summer” (1984)
- “All She Wants to Do Is Dance” (1984)
- “Not Enough Love in the World” (1984)
- “Sunset Grill” (1984)
- “The End of the Innocence” (1989)
- “The Last Worthless Evening” (1989)
- “New York Minute” (1989)
- “The Heart of the Matter” (1989)
- “Sometimes Love Just Ain’t Enough” (with Patty Smyth) (1992)
- “Taking You Home” (2000)
- “Everything Is Different Now” (2000)
- “That Old Flame” (with Martina McBride) (2015)
- “The Cost of Living” (with Merle Haggard) (2015)
Don Henley Albums / Discography
With the Eagles:
- Eagles (1972)
- Desperado (1973)
- On the Border (1974)
- One of These Nights (1975)
- Hotel California (1976)
- The Long Run (1979)
- Hell Freezes Over (1994) (live/studio)
- Long Road Out of Eden (2007)
Solo Studio Albums:
- I Can’t Stand Still (1982)
- Building the Perfect Beast (1984)
- The End of the Innocence (1989)
- Inside Job (2000)
- Cass County (2015)
Don Henley Movies / TV Shows
- The Blues Brothers (1980) – Cameo
- The Eagles: Hell Freezes Over (1994) – Himself
- History of the Eagles (2013) – Documentary
- The Kennedy Center Honors (2016) – Honoree
Don Henley Hobbies
- Playing drums and guitar
- Writing songs and poetry
- Listening to classic rock and country
- Spending time with family
- Reading history books
- Environmental activism
- Collecting art
- Watching sports (especially Texas teams)
Don Henley Favorite Things
- Food: Texas barbecue, Southern cuisine
- Color: Black, White, Green
- Movie: Not publicly known
- Musician: The Beatles
- Holiday Destination: Texas (his home state)
- Instrument: Drums
- Pastime: Making music
- Book: History books
Don Henley Interesting Facts
- Don Henley was forced to quit his high school football team due to his small build.
- He first played the trombone before moving to drums.
- He met Glenn Frey while they were both in Linda Ronstadt’s backing band.
- He co-wrote “Hotel California” with Don Felder and Glenn Frey.
- He is the fourth-wealthiest drummer in the world.
- His wedding featured performers including Sting, Bruce Springsteen, and Billy Joel.
- He founded the Walden Woods Project to protect environmental land.
- He was ranked the 87th-greatest singer of all time by Rolling Stone.
- He has sold over 150 million albums with the Eagles.
- He has won 8 Grammy Awards total (6 with Eagles, 2 solo).
FAQs
1. What is Don Henley’s real name?
His real name is Donald Hugh Henley. He uses Don Henley professionally.
2. How old is Don Henley in 2026?
He is 79 years old. He was born on July 22, 1947.
3. How tall is Don Henley?
His height is 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm).
4. What is Don Henley’s net worth?
His net worth is estimated at $250 million as of 2026.
5. Is Don Henley married?
Yes, he is married to Sharon Summerall. They tied the knot on May 20, 1995.
6. What is Don Henley famous for?
He is famous for being the drummer and co-lead vocalist of the Eagles and for solo hits like “The Boys of Summer” and “Dirty Laundry.”
7. Does Don Henley have children?
Yes, he has three children: Annabel, Julia, and Will.
Conclusion
Don Henley, whose real name is Donald Hugh Henley, is a true rock legend. At 79 years old in 2026, he is still active. He was born on July 22, 1947 in Gilmer, Texas. His height is 5 feet 10 inches and his weight is 175 lb. His career started in 1970 with the Eagles.
He released iconic albums like Building the Perfect Beast and The End of the Innocence. He recorded under labels like Asylum, Geffen, and Capitol. His estimated net worth is $250 million. He is a Rock and Roll Hall of Famer and a Grammy winner. His music will inspire generations to come.
He continues to tour and record new music. His legacy as the Eagles’ co-lead vocalist is secure. He will be remembered for his powerful voice and iconic songs. Don Henley is a true American treasure.