J. D. Souther, born John David Souther on November 3, 1945 in Detroit, Michigan, is a country rock singer, songwriter and musician.

Raised in Amarillo, Texas, he was greatly influenced by fellow Texan, Roy Orbison whose sound he tried to emulate. In the mid 1970s, Souther formed the "Souther Hillman Furay Band" with Chris Hillman and Richie Furay. J. D. Souther is best known for his 1979 Orbison-like hit song You're Only Lonely , his songs written for Linda Ronstadt, and his hit co-compositions with members of The Eagles.