Hearts on Fire

Zoo Freaks, get ready to vibe with the Zoo Crew as we spin "Hearts on Fire" by Randy Meisner from his 1980 album One More Song. This track, a rollicking country-rock anthem, hit number 19 on the US Billboard Hot 100, making it one of Meisner’s biggest solo successes. Co-written with Eric Kaz, the song features Wendy Waldman’s harmonies, adding a fiery edge to its tale of desire and late-night cruising. Critics at the time, like those in Citizens’ Voice in 1980, called it an album standout, praising its infectious energy. Fun fact: "Hearts on Fire" was part of a promotional record tied to a Candie’s Shoes giveaway in April 1981, advertised in newspapers like the St. Joseph Gazette. Teens were dancing to it on Dick Clark’s American Bandstand in 1981, proving its crossover appeal.

Another cool tidbit comes from the album’s production. One More Song, produced by Val Garay, was Meisner’s chance to step out from the Eagles’ shadow. In a 1980 BAM Magazine interview with Dave Zimmer, Meisner shared how he poured his heart into this project, collaborating with songwriters like Kaz and Waldman to craft songs that felt personal yet universal. The album’s success, peaking at number 50 on the Billboard 200, showed he could hold his own as a solo artist. Fans on The Randy Meisner Appreciation Society on Facebook often share how "Hearts on Fire" captures Meisner’s raw, heartfelt style, with some recalling seeing him perform it live with his Silverado band in the early ’80s.

Randy Meisner’s journey to "Hearts on Fire" started in Scottsbluff, Nebraska, where he was born on March 8, 1946. Growing up on a farm, he was surrounded by music—his mother sang, and his grandfather taught violin. Inspired by Elvis Presley and Conway Twitty, Meisner picked up an acoustic guitar at 12. By 14, he was playing in a band called the Deacons, which became the Thunderbirds. At 15, he co-founded the Dynamics (later Drivin’ Dynamics) in 1961, cutting his first record with them in 1962, including a cover of Sam Cooke’s "You Send Me." After a Battle of the Bands in Denver in 1966, he joined the Soul Survivors, who moved to California and became The Poor. In 1968, he briefly joined Poco but left before their debut album, later playing with Rick Nelson’s Stone Canyon Band.

Meisner’s big break came in 1971 when he co-founded the Eagles, contributing bass and high harmonies to hits like "Take It Easy" and lead vocals on "Take It to the Limit." After leaving the Eagles in 1977, he launched his solo career, with "Hearts on Fire" showcasing his ability to blend country and rock. Though health issues slowed him down later, his legacy endures. Check out more at his fan-run site Randy Meisner Hearts on Fire. You can also connect with fans on Randy Meisner’s Facebook page or follow updates on his Instagram. On X, fans keep his memory alive, though Meisner, who passed in 2023, wasn’t active there himself. Join the Randy Meisner Appreciation Society to share your love for his music.