Everybody Knows

Hey there, Zoo Freaks! The Zoo Crew is spinning the moody vibes of Everybody Knows by Don Henley from his 1995 compilation Actual Miles: Henley's Greatest Hits. This track isn’t one of Henley’s originals—it’s a cover of a 1988 Leonard Cohen and Sharon Robinson song from Cohen’s album I’m Your Man. Henley’s version brings a polished, radio-ready rock edge to Cohen’s gritty, synth-heavy lament. Fun fact: Henley performed this song as a duet with Bryan Adams during a 1996 VH1 concert, blending their voices for a raw, live intensity that fans still talk about. The song’s dark, cynical lyrics—like “Everybody knows that the dice are loaded”—fit Henley’s knack for sharp social commentary, much like his earlier hits such as Dirty Laundry. It’s no wonder this cover found a home on his greatest hits album, even if it wasn’t listed on the original CD’s back cover, making it a bit of a hidden gem for eagle-eyed fans.

While not much has surfaced from Henley himself about why he chose to cover Everybody Knows, the song’s themes of societal decay and human struggle align with his solo work in the ‘80s, which often critiqued greed and cultural excess. Some fans on the Eagles Fan Group on Facebook speculate that Henley was drawn to its apocalyptic tone, especially since he recorded it during a reflective period after reuniting with The Eagles in 1994. The track’s use in films like Pump Up the Volume (in Cohen’s version) might’ve also caught Henley’s ear, given its cult status among music heads. If you’re digging this tune, check out the chatter on Eagles Online Central, a fan site where Zoo Freaks can geek out over Henley’s solo catalog and trade stories about his biting lyrics.

Now, let’s rewind to how Don Henley got his start. Born in Gilmer, Texas, on July 22, 1947, Henley grew up in the small town of Linden. Music was his escape early on, and he started playing drums in high school with a band called The Four Speeds, which later became Shiloh. After a year at Stephen F. Austin University and a stint at North Texas State University as an English literature major, Henley returned home to care for his ailing father. That’s when Shiloh got serious again. In 1968, Kenny Rogers caught their show and urged them to head to Los Angeles. Shiloh recorded an album for Amos Records in 1970, but the real game-changer came when Henley met guitarist Glenn Frey in L.A. The two clicked, and soon they were backing Linda Ronstadt before forming The Eagles in 1971. Henley’s drumming and soulful vocals defined hits like Hotel California and Desperado, setting the stage for his solo career in the ‘80s with albums like Building the Perfect Beast.

Wanna keep up with Don Henley? His official website is donhenley.com, where you can find tour dates and music updates. Follow him on Facebook for news and throwback posts, or check out his Instagram for behind-the-scenes shots and occasional reflections. On X, Henley’s posts are sporadic but often pack a punch with his takes on music and the world. For Zoo Freaks looking to connect with other fans, the Eagles Fan Group on Facebook is a lively spot to share your love for Henley’s work. Another great fan hub is Eagles Online Central, packed with discographies, forums, and deep dives into Henley’s career. So, keep those dials locked on THE ZOO, and let’s keep rocking with the Zoo Crew!