John David “JD” Souther has died. He was a prolific songwriter and musician whose collaborations with the Eagles and Linda Ronstadt helped shape the country-rock sound that took root in Southern California in the 1970s.

The Eagles have paid tribute to songwriter and actor J.D. Souther, who has died at the age of 78. Souther, who co-wrote several songs with the band, died peacefully at home in New Mexico, just days before he was due to embark on a US tour with singer-songwriter Karla Bonoff.