“Get Over It” by the Eagles: A Fiery Comeback After Fourteen Years
In 1994, the Eagles made a powerful return to the music scene with their single “Get Over It,” after a fourteen-year hiatus that left fans wondering if they would ever hear new material from the iconic band again. This song, which marked the first collaboration between bandmates Don Henley and Glenn Frey since their reunion, was more than just a new track—it was a statement. A statement that said, “We’re back, and we haven’t lost our edge.” The release of “Get Over It” brought the Eagles back to the U.S. top 40 after more than a decade, peaking at No. 31 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and climbing to No. 4 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks chart.
“Get Over It” is a song that drips with Henley’s trademark sarcasm and biting wit. The lyrics are a sharp critique of what Henley saw as the growing culture of victimhood in America, particularly as it was being broadcast on television talk shows of the time. In his eyes, people were too quick to blame their personal and financial troubles on others, and then expect sympathy or a handout. He doesn’t hold back in expressing his disdain, especially with lines like “Old Billy was right: let’s kill all the lawyers—kill ’em tonight,” a darkly humorous nod to William Shakespeare’s famous line from Henry VI, Part II. The song’s aggressive tone and pointed lyrics were a bold departure from the more mellow and introspective tracks that the Eagles were known for, but it resonated with fans who appreciated the raw honesty.
The first time “Get Over It” was played live was during the Hell Freezes Over tour in 1994, a name that itself is a tongue-in-cheek reference to the long-standing joke that the band would only reunite when hell froze over. This tour was a monumental event for fans, and “Get Over It” quickly became a highlight of their live performances. However, despite its initial popularity and the success it brought the band upon its release, the song was not played live after the Hell Freezes Over tour. It remains a distinctive track in their catalog—one that is often overshadowed by their more famous hits, but still holds a special place as their last U.S. top 40 hit.
“Get Over It” serves as a reminder of the Eagles’ ability to evolve and stay relevant, even after a long break. It’s a song that captures a moment in time—a period of change, frustration, and the reassertion of their place in the rock music landscape.