The Eagles – Take the Devil

Song Information

• Title: Take the Devil

• Artist: The Eagles

• Album: Eagles (Self-titled debut album)

• Writers: Randy Meisner

• Lead Vocals: Randy Meisner

• Release Date: May 1, 1972

• Label: Asylum Records

• Genre: Country Rock / Folk Rock

• Length: 4:00

• Producer: Glyn Johns

Take the Devil is the ninth track from the Eagles’ 1972 debut album. Written and sung by bassist Randy Meisner, the song is a haunting and often overlooked deep cut that reveals the band’s early experimentalism and spiritual curiosity. It delves into themes far darker and more introspective than the radio hits that made them famous.

Song Meaning and Themes

Take the Devil presents a narrative of internal struggle, temptation, and emotional isolation. Meisner’s trembling vocal delivery perfectly complements the somber mood, making the track one of the more psychologically intense entries on the debut record.

The lyrics explore the idea of living with someone who is battling their own inner demons. The song’s narrator seems to be addressing either a literal partner or metaphorical companion whose spiritual darkness is affecting those around them. Phrases like “She won’t let you live, but she won’t let you die” point to a toxic influence—possibly addiction, mental illness, or a manipulative relationship.

Musically, the track blends country rock instrumentation with eerie harmonies and a foreboding rhythm, creating an atmosphere that feels both grounded and unsettling. Unlike the soaring optimism of Take It Easy, Take the Devil treads through emotional shadows and suggests that some burdens cannot be shared—only endured.

It’s not a song of resolution, but of realization. The devil in the song may not be a person or spirit at all—it could be guilt, fear, or some haunting from the past that refuses to loosen its grip.

What Does “Take the Devil” Really Mean?

At first glance, Take the Devil might sound like a song about someone warning you to stay away from a dangerous woman. But underneath the surface, it’s actually about the fear of being consumed by someone else’s darkness—and the guilt that comes from not being able to save them.

The “devil” in the title could be symbolic of mental torment, trauma, or a destructive personality. The lines “She’ll smile while she’s making you cry” suggest a relationship where love and harm coexist. The song reflects on how easy it is to get drawn into someone else’s emotional chaos and how hard it is to escape once you’re in.

Interestingly, this is one of the few Eagles songs that truly leans into psychological storytelling rather than romance, freedom, or nostalgia. It captures the dilemma many face when they love someone who’s in pain—they want to help, but in the process, they begin to unravel themselves.

In a band known for smooth harmonies and California cool, Take the Devil stands out as a cry from the emotional underbelly—a rare and raw confession that sometimes, letting go is the only way to survive.

Watch the Song Video

🎬 Watch now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lWQNrQ31AYE

Lyrics