Don Felder is a name many music fans recognize even if they can’t immediately place it by face. He’s an American musician and guitarist best known for his time as the lead guitarist with the Eagles, one of the most successful rock bands in history. Felder’s guitar work — especially the unforgettable dual‑lead solos on “Hotel California” — has helped shape the sound of classic rock for decades.
Born September 21, 1947, Felder grew up in Gainesville, Florida, where he picked up guitar at a young age and quickly developed a distinctive style that blended melody with rock energy. He joined the Eagles in 1974 and contributed to multiple albums during the band’s peak years in the 1970s and 1980s.
Felder’s impact goes beyond one band or one song. He’s been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, released solo albums, and continues to perform live well into his seventies. That longevity — from recording studios in the 1970s to theatres in the 2020s — shows both his talent and his passion for music.
Don Felder Quick Bio
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Donald William Felder |
| Date of Birth | September 21, 1947 |
| Age | 78 (as of 2026) |
| Birthplace | Gainesville, Florida, USA |
| Profession | Musician, Guitarist, Songwriter |
| Famous Band | Eagles (1974–2001) |
| Famous Song | “Hotel California” (co‑writer) |
| Solo Albums | Airborne, Road to Forever, American Rock ’n’ Roll |
| Net Worth | ~$60 million |
| Marital Status | Divorced from Susan Pickersgill; later engaged to Diane McInerney |
| Children | Four, including daughter Leah Felder |
| Residence | Beverly Hills, California |
| Current Activity | Touring with Don Felder Band, solo performances |
| Awards & Recognition | Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Musicians Hall of Fame |
Don Felder Age, Career Highlights, and Musical Contributions
Don Felder’s age tells part of his story. Born in 1947, he is 78 years old in 2026. That may seem old for a touring rock musician — but Felder still gets on stage and plays with energy that surprises some fans.
Key Career Moments
- Eagles Tenure (1974–2001): Felder joined the band during a period when they were transforming from country rock into mainstream rock giants. His guitar parts became central to their sound.
- “Hotel California”: Co‑written by Felder, this song is often cited as one of the greatest rock recordings of the 20th century and is instantly recognizable for its layered guitar work.
- Solo Work: After parting ways with the Eagles, Felder continued releasing music as a solo artist. Albums like Airborne, Road to Forever, and American Rock ’n’ Roll showcase his range beyond his band years.
- His Own Band: Since the mid‑2000s, Felder has toured with the Don Felder Band, performing Eagles songs alongside his solo material.
Despite occasional health issues on stage, he has continued performing, showing resilience and commitment to live music.
What Is net worth don felder?
When people search “net worth Don Felder,” they are usually curious about how a lifetime in music translates into financial success. Based on estimates, Don Felder’s net worth is around $60 million USD.
It’s important to remember that net worth estimates are just that — estimates. They attempt to account for things like music royalties, concert earnings, recording income, and sometimes property or investments. But they rarely capture every detail, and actual numbers can vary depending on the source.
To put that in perspective, think about a successful small business owner who built his reputation over decades. Like that owner, Felder earns money not just from one source, but from a collection of income streams — a classic rock anthem played on the radio, a solo tour, a catalog of songs, and continued interest from newer fans discovering his music.
Personal Life: Family, Relationships, and Where He Lives Now
Felder’s personal life has had its share of changes over the years, just like his professional one.
Family and Relationships
- Marriage: In 1971, Don Felder married Susan Pickersgill. They had four children together before divorcing in 2000.
- Children: Among their children is Leah Felder, who has attracted public interest in her own right.
- Later Relationships: In 2020, Felder became engaged to Diane McInerney, although more recent details about the status of that relationship aren’t widely publicized.
Where Does Don Felder Live Now?
Felder owns property in Beverly Hills, California and has lived there for many years. Prior to that, he lived in Malibu and other locations in the United States.
Living in Southern California makes sense for someone whose life has revolved around the entertainment industry. The area offers proximity to recording studios, touring logistics, and fellow musicians, while also being a comfortable setting for retirement — or continued work.
Don Felder’s Touring Today
Even in his late 70s, Don Felder today isn’t living quietly. He continues touring and performing, bringing classic hits and newer material to audiences across North America.
2026 Concert Dates
Felder has scheduled shows in multiple cities, including performances in Indiana and Oklahoma among others.
Touring can be demanding, especially for older performers. It requires travel, stamina, rehearsal, and interaction with both band members and fans. Many artists in their later years manage this by spacing out shows more than they did in their youth and by tailoring setlists to conserve energy while still giving fans a memorable experience. Felder seems to follow that pattern, blending solo shows with appearances alongside other classic rock acts.
Fans often describe meet‑and‑greet interactions as warm and personal. These experiences reflect Felder’s reputation as a seasoned professional who values the connection with his audience.
How History and Legacy Shape His Story
Don Felder’s career has been marked by both artistic achievement and personal challenges. His tenure with the Eagles ended amid legal disputes and disagreements, but he has continued performing and creating music on his own terms.
In many ways, his journey mirrors that of other long‑term creators who start in collaborative environments and eventually find a solo voice. It’s similar to a co‑founder of a company who helps build it, then moves on to launch their own ventures. Some stories end in quiet retirement; Felder’s hasn’t.
His contributions to music — including co‑writing one of rock’s most iconic songs — and his ongoing touring life show a professional whose legacy remains both influential and active. Vista News readers who explore his story often find a blend of classic rock history with real human traits: ambition, creativity, resilience, and adaptation.
Conclusion
Don Felder’s life and career offer a window into what long-term success in music can look like. From humble beginnings in Florida to globe-spanning tours, he has built a legacy that goes beyond a single song or band. His net worth reflects decades of work, his age doesn’t slow his output, and his personal life shows both continuity and change over time. Today, he remains active on the road and continues to connect with fans in a way that keeps his music — and his story — alive.
Frequently Asked Questions About Don Felder
1. Who is Don Felder?
Don Felder is an American musician, songwriter, and guitarist, best known as the lead guitarist of the Eagles. He co-wrote the classic rock hit “Hotel California” and has also released solo albums.
2. How old is Don Felder?
Don Felder was born on September 21, 1947, which makes him 78 years old in 2026. Despite his age, he continues to perform and tour.
3. What is net worth don felder?
Net worth don felder is estimated to be around $60 million, earned through his time with the Eagles, solo projects, touring, and royalties from his music catalog.
4. Is Don Felder married and does he have children?
Felder was married to Susan Pickersgill, and they had four children, including daughter Leah Felder. The couple divorced in 2000, and he later became engaged to Diane McInerney.
5. Where does Don Felder live and is he still touring?
Don Felder currently lives in Beverly Hills, California. He continues to tour with the Don Felder Band and performs both Eagles classics and his solo material.
