What’s In A Name? The Reason These Bands Were Named After Animals

Eagles Name Came Out Of Hopi Indian Mythology

Photo Credit: RB/Redferns/Getty Images

One version of the name came out of Don Fedler’s autobiography Heaven and Hell: My Life in the Eagles.

The former lead guitarist credited Bernie Leadon with originating the group’s name during an outing in the Mojave Desert. Leadon suggested the name because of his interest in Hopi Indian mythology, specifically, the tribe’s reverence for the eagle. Fun fact: one band had three different meanings behind their name. Find out who wanted to make reference to jazz musician Charlie “Yardbird” Parker shortly.