The End of the Innocence

Don Henley

About The End of the Innocence

"The End of the Innocence" is the lead single and title track from Don Henley's third solo studio album of the same name, released in 1989. Henley co-wrote and co-produced the song with Bruce Hornsby, who also performed piano; both artists perform the song live in their respective concerts. Henley's version peaked at number eight on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming his fifth solo top ten hit on the chart. "The End of the Innocence" also became his fourth number-one single on the Mainstream Rock Tracks chart and peaked at number two on the Hot Adult Contemporary chart.  


Year:
2000
5:39
85 
#2

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Don Henley

Donald Hugh "Don" Henley (born July 22, 1947, in Gilmer, Texas) is an American singer, songwriter and drummer, best known as a founding member of the Eagles before launching a successful solo career. Henley was the drummer and lead vocalist for the Eagles from 1971–1980, when the band broke up. Henley sings lead vocals on Eagles hits such as "Witchy Woman", "Desperado", "Best of My Love", "One of These Nights", "Hotel California", "Life in the Fast Lane", and "The Long Run". He and Glenn Frey formed one of the most successful songwriting partnerships in music history. more »

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11 facts about this song

Composition and Release
"The End of the Innocence" was co-written by American musicians Bruce Hornsby and Don Henley. It was released in June 1989 as the lead single from Henley's third solo album also titled "The End of the Innocence."
Chart Performance
The song achieved significant commercial success. It peaked at number eight on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and also reached the top of the Album Rock Tracks chart.
Music Video
The music video for "The End of the Innocence" was co-directed by Henley and David Fincher, who later went on to direct several acclaimed films such as "Seven," "Fight Club," and "The Social Network."
Politics and Social Issues
The song is frequently interpreted as a lament for the loss of idealism and the changing moral landscape of America in the 1980s. Its lyrics touch on socio-political elements that were prominent during the Reagan administration.
Grammy Nomination and Award
"The End of the Innocence" received several nominations at the 1990 Grammy Awards, including Record of the Year and Song of the Year. It won the Grammy for Best Male Rock Vocal Performance.
Concert Staple
The song has become a staple in Don Henley's solo concerts and was also a regular feature during the Eagles' concerts when they reunited in the 90s.
Cover Versions
It has been covered by numerous artists including Oukast's member Big Boi, Bonnie Raitt, and R&B artist D'Angelo.
Bruce Hornsby's Contribution
Though Bruce Hornsby is perhaps most well known for his hit "The Way It Is," his work on "The End of the Innocence" showcases his ability as a songwriter. Bruce also played piano on the recording of the song.
Cultural References
The song's lyrics, especially, "Armageddon's been in effect, go get a late pass," were quoted in the Spike Lee film "Do the Right Thing."
Length and Structure
The song is structured in verse-chorus form, and it's quite long. The album version of "The End of the Innocence" runs for 5 minutes and 16 seconds.
Critical Appreciation
The song has been praised for its evocative lyrics and haunting piano melody. Critics often single out Don Henley's passionate vocal performance as a highlight.

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    "The End of the Innocence Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 28 Mar. 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/18449034/Don+Henley/The+End+of+the+Innocence>.

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    The End of the Innocence

    1.1M
    4,418     164

    Top Hot 100 Songs 1989

    Billboard #8


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