About the song
“Peaceful Easy Feeling,” a song written by Jack Tempchin and recorded by the Eagles, stands out as a memorable piece from the band’s early years. Released as the third single from their 1972 debut album, *Eagles*, the song achieved notable success, reaching No. 22 on the Billboard Hot 100. It remains one of the Eagles’ most beloved tracks, celebrated for its relaxed, soothing vibe and reflective lyrics.
The song’s origins trace back to Tempchin’s time performing in folk coffee shops in San Diego. Inspired by a friend’s poster filled with humorous fake quotes about his talent, Tempchin penned an early version of “Peaceful Easy Feeling” on the back of that very poster. This creative spark was further fueled by his experiences living with fellow musicians and observing life in San Diego. He vividly remembered watching people at a bus stop and trying to capture the essence of fleeting moments of beauty and love in his songwriting.
Tempchin later relocated to Los Angeles, where he began collaborating with musicians like Glenn Frey and Jackson Browne. Frey, who had recently formed the Eagles, was impressed by Tempchin’s song and wanted to develop it further. The collaboration resulted in a version of “Peaceful Easy Feeling” that Tempchin described as so impressive he could hardly believe it.
The song’s appeal lies in its blend of mellow country and folk influences, with soothing guitar riffs and warm harmonies. Glenn Frey, who provides the lead vocals, is accompanied by Bernie Leadon’s harmonies and Randy Meisner’s backing vocals. The track was praised for its “pop-flavored progressive country effort” by Billboard and described as “mellow country folk music at its best” by Record World.
“Peaceful Easy Feeling” has enjoyed enduring popularity, and in 1993, it was covered by the country band Little Texas. Their version reached No. 74 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Songs charts and was later included in their 1995 Greatest Hits album.
In terms of its impact, the song earned a Silver certification in the UK for selling over 200,000 copies. Its relaxed charm and reflective lyrics continue to resonate with audiences, making it a timeless favorite in the Eagles’ extensive catalog.
Video
Lyrics
I like the way your sparkling earrings lay
Against your skin so brown
And I want to sleep with you in the desert night
With a billion stars all around
‘Cause I got a peaceful easy feelin’
And I know you won’t let me down
‘Cause I’m already standin’
On the ground
And I found out a long time ago
What a woman can do to your soul
Aw but she can’t take you any way
You don’t already know how to go
And I got a peaceful easy feelin’
And I know you won’t let me down
‘Cause I’m already standin’
On the ground
I get this feelin’ I may know you
As a lover and a friend
This voice keeps whisperin’ in my other ear
Tells me I may never see you again
‘Cause I get a peaceful easy feelin’
And I know you won’t let me down
‘Cause I’m already standin’
I’m already standin’
Yes, I’m already standin’
On the ground