CNN —Randy Meisner, who was a co-founding member of legendary rock band the Eagles and served as a bassist and vocalist, has died, according to an announcement on the band’s official site. “The Eagles are sad to report that founding member, bassist, and vocalist, Randy Meisner, passed away last night (July 26) in Los Angeles at age 77, due to complications from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary disease (COPD),” the statement, posted on Thursday, read. “Randy was an integral part of the Eagles and instrumental in the early success of the band. His vocal range was astonishing, as is evident on his signature ballad, ‘Take It to the Limit,’” said the Eagles. Meisner’s musical career began with Rick Nelson’s Stone Canyon Band as their vocalist and bassist.

---

Persons: Randy Meisner, “ Randy, ’ ”, Rick Nelson’s, Glenn Frey, Don Henley, Bernie Leadon, Meisner Organizations: CNN, Eagles, “, “ Eagles, Hall of Fame Locations: Los Angeles, “ Hotel California