Steve Miller Performs “Fly Like An Eagle” On The Tonight Show
via @fallontonight / YouTube
On October 9, 2019, Steve Miller brought a timeless groove to The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon with a performance of his 1976 hit, “Fly Like An Eagle.” The performance wasn’t just a nostalgic revisit—it was a powerful reminder of Miller’s enduring artistry. Backed by The Roots, the Tonight Show’s house band, Miller’s laid-back vocals and smooth guitar work created a captivating live rendition of the track.
The collaboration with The Roots gave the performance a fresh spin, blending old-school cool with modern flair. It was a treat for both longtime fans and new listeners alike. Their tight rhythm and Miller’s signature sound meshed seamlessly, showing that great music really is timeless.
The performance coincided with the upcoming release of “Welcome To The Vault,” a comprehensive box set chronicling Miller’s storied career. Slated for release on October 11, the collection served as the perfect context for his Tonight Show appearance—reminding viewers not only of his past hits but also his legacy as a pioneering artist.
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A Peek Inside ‘The Vault’
Miller’s appearance on The Tonight Show wasn’t limited to the stage—he also sat down for an interview with Jimmy Fallon. During their conversation, he opened up about his journey through the music industry and his latest project, “Welcome To The Vault.” One particularly touching moment came when he spoke about his godfather, the legendary Les Paul, who played a pivotal role in his early development as a musician.
According to Miller, Les Paul not only taught him how to play but also introduced him to the technical side of music production. These early lessons in recording and making records would shape Miller’s approach for decades to come. Another major influence, he shared, was blues icon T-Bone Walker, who became his mentor on guitar and helped mold his unique sound.
The “Welcome To The Vault” box set is a massive retrospective of Miller’s career. It features 52 audio tracks and 21 performance videos on DVD, wrapped in a deluxe package that includes a 100-page book of personal photos and a 9,000-word essay by Rolling Stone’s David Fricke. For fans, it’s both a collector’s item and a deep dive into the mind of one of rock’s most innovative figures.
Unreleased Gems and Musical History
What sets “Welcome To The Vault” apart from other anthologies is its treasure trove of rare and unreleased material. Of the 52 audio tracks, 38 are previously unheard rarities that span the breadth of Miller’s musical output. These tracks provide insight into his creative process and evolution as an artist, from studio outtakes to live performances.
Some of the songs included in the collection date all the way back to the late 1960s, offering fans a chance to experience early, unpolished versions of now-beloved classics. It’s a unique opportunity to witness the development of Miller’s sound and understand how he arrived at the polished records we know today.
For anyone interested in the broader history of American rock and blues, “Welcome To The Vault” is more than just a music release—it’s a piece of musical heritage. From his television performance to his candid reflections and generous sharing of archival content, Steve Miller proves once again why he remains a respected and relevant figure in music.
Watch the interview below.
