The Eagles’ founder Glenn Frey passes

Glenn Frey, a founding member of The Eagles has passed away, aged 67.

Frey had been battling intestinal issues, and following surgery in November the band were forced to pull out of their appearance at the Kennedy Center Honors ceremony, which celebrates contributions to performing arts in the US.

Frey’s band, family and manager released a statementthis morning announcing he had been suffering complications fromRheumatoid Arthritis, Acute Ulcerative Colitis and Pneumonia.

“Glenn fought a courageous battle for the past several weeks but, sadly, succumbed to complications from Rheumatoid Arthritis, Acute Ulcerative Colitis and Pneumonia.

“The Frey family would like to thank everyone who joined Glenn to fight this fight and hoped and prayed for his recovery. Words can neither describe our sorrow, nor our love and respect for all that he has given to us, his family, the music community & millions of fans worldwide.”

Following multiple hiatuses over the The Eagles’ 45-year career – and Frey’s successful solo career in the ‘80s where he soundtracked Beverly Hills Copwith The Heat Is Onand You Belong to the City from Miami Vice – last year’s tour saw fellow band member Don Henley telling crowds each show could be the last time they’d see the band.

The band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1998 and are consideredcountry-rock icons withhits like Hotel California, Take It Easy, Take It to the Limit, and Lyin’ Eyes. in 1999 the band made history when their albumGreatest Hits 1971-1975becamethe top-selling album of the 20th century.