Linda Ronstadt is a legendary American singer known for her versatile vocal abilities and her contributions to various genres including rock, country, pop, and Latin music. Born on July 15, 1946, in Tucson, Arizona, she rose to prominence in the 1970s and 1980s with hits like “You’re No Good,” “Blue Bayou,” “When Will I Be Loved,” and “It’s So Easy.”
Ronstadt’s powerful and emotive voice, coupled with her ability to interpret songs across multiple styles, made her one of the most successful female artists of her era. She achieved commercial success and critical acclaim, winning numerous awards throughout her career, including 11 Grammy Awards.
In addition to her solo career, Linda Ronstadt collaborated with other prominent artists, such as Emmylou Harris and Dolly Parton, on the Grammy-winning “Trio” albums. She also explored her passion for traditional Mexican music with the album “Canciones de Mi Padre,” which became the best-selling non-English-language album in American record history at the time of its release.
Sadly, Ronstadt announced her retirement from performing in 2011 due to health reasons, specifically Parkinson’s disease, which affected her ability to sing. However, her impact on music continues to be celebrated, and she remains an influential figure in the music industry.
1. Just One Look
“Just One Look” is one of Linda Ronstadt’s iconic songs, originally written by Doris Troy and Gregory Carroll. Ronstadt released her cover version of the song in 1978 as part of her album “Living in the USA.” Her rendition of “Just One Look” became a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
The song is known for its catchy melody and Ronstadt’s soulful interpretation, showcasing her vocal prowess and ability to infuse emotion into her performances. “Just One Look” remains a beloved classic and a staple in Ronstadt’s extensive discography, showcasing her versatility as an artist who could excel in various musical styles.
2. Heat Wave
“Heat Wave” is another classic song that Linda Ronstadt covered, originally performed by Martha and the Vandellas in 1963. Ronstadt included her rendition of “Heat Wave” on her 1975 album “Prisoner in Disguise.”
In her version, Ronstadt infused the song with her trademark energy and vocal prowess, adding her own interpretation while staying true to the song’s Motown roots. The track became a hit for Ronstadt, reaching the top 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
“Heat Wave” is known for its infectious rhythm, upbeat tempo, and catchy chorus, making it a favorite for fans of both the original Motown sound and Ronstadt’s rock-infused style. Ronstadt’s rendition of “Heat Wave” further solidified her reputation as one of the most versatile and talented vocalists of her generation.
3. Hurt So Bad
“Hurt So Bad” is a song that Linda Ronstadt covered, originally recorded by Little Anthony & the Imperials in 1965. Ronstadt included her version of “Hurt So Bad” on her 1980 album “Mad Love.”
Her rendition of the song showcases her ability to convey emotion and vulnerability through her powerful vocals. Ronstadt’s version was well-received, and it became a hit, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
The song itself is a soulful ballad with poignant lyrics that explore the pain of heartbreak and lost love. Ronstadt’s interpretation adds her own unique touch while honoring the original recording. “Hurt So Bad” is a standout track in Ronstadt’s extensive catalog and continues to be cherished by fans of her music.
4. You’re No Good
“You’re No Good” is one of Linda Ronstadt’s signature songs, originally written by Clint Ballard Jr. and first recorded by Dee Dee Warwick in 1963. Ronstadt covered the song on her 1974 album “Heart Like a Wheel,” and her version became a massive hit.
Ronstadt’s rendition of “You’re No Good” features her powerful vocals and a rock-infused arrangement that helped propel the song to the top of the charts. It reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, marking Ronstadt’s first chart-topping single.
The song’s lyrics express the singer’s defiance and determination to break free from a toxic relationship, and Ronstadt’s passionate delivery resonated with audiences, cementing the song’s status as one of her most iconic recordings. “You’re No Good” remains a staple in Ronstadt’s live performances and continues to be celebrated as a classic rock anthem.
5. Blue Bayou
“Blue Bayou” is a classic song famously performed by Linda Ronstadt. Originally written by Roy Orbison and Joe Melson, it was first recorded by Orbison in 1963. However, Ronstadt’s rendition, released in 1977 as part of her album “Simple Dreams,” became one of her biggest hits.
Ronstadt’s version of “Blue Bayou” features her distinctive vocals and a lush arrangement that captures the song’s dreamy and nostalgic feel. The lyrics paint a picture of longing and yearning for a return to a simpler time, evoking the imagery of the blue bayou as a place of refuge and solace.
Ronstadt’s rendition of “Blue Bayou” solidified her status as one of the most versatile and beloved vocalists of her time. The song remains a favorite among her fans and is considered one of her signature performances.
6. When Will I Be Loved
“When Will I Be Loved” is a classic song performed by Linda Ronstadt. Written by Phil Everly of The Everly Brothers, it was originally released by The Everly Brothers in 1960, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Linda Ronstadt covered the song in 1975 for her album “Heart Like a Wheel,” and her version became a major hit, reaching number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Ronstadt’s rendition of “When Will I Be Loved” features her powerful vocals and a rock-infused arrangement that adds a new dimension to the song while staying true to its original spirit. The lyrics express the frustration and longing of someone who is seeking love and validation but feels neglected and unappreciated.
Linda Ronstadt’s version of “When Will I Be Loved” remains one of her most iconic songs and showcases her ability to interpret and breathe new life into classic material. It has become a timeless favorite among fans of both Ronstadt and classic rock music.
7. It’s So Easy
“It’s So Easy” is another popular song associated with Linda Ronstadt, originally written by Buddy Holly and Norman Petty. Ronstadt included her cover of “It’s So Easy” on her 1977 album “Simple Dreams.”
Her rendition of the song features a catchy melody and Ronstadt’s trademark vocals, showcasing her ability to infuse rock and pop sensibilities into her music. “It’s So Easy” was released as a single and became a hit, reaching the top 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
The song’s lyrics express the simplicity and joy of falling in love, and Ronstadt’s interpretation adds her own heartfelt emotion to the mix. “It’s So Easy” remains a beloved track in Ronstadt’s discography, celebrated for its infectious energy and timeless appeal.
8. Poor Poor Pitiful Me
“Poor Poor Pitiful Me” is a classic song written and originally recorded by Warren Zevon in 1976. However, it’s perhaps best known for Linda Ronstadt’s cover version, which she released in 1977 as part of her album “Simple Dreams.”
The song’s lyrics tell the story of a woman who recounts her romantic misfortunes, portraying herself as “poor poor pitiful me.” Despite the catchy melody and upbeat tempo, the lyrics convey a sense of wry humor and resignation as the protagonist laments her string of failed relationships.
Linda Ronstadt’s rendition of “Poor Poor Pitiful Me” became a hit, reaching the top 40 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Her soulful vocals and spirited performance added a new dimension to the song, making it a standout track on the album and a fan favorite.
The song has since been covered by various artists and remains a beloved classic in the realms of rock and country music, showcasing both Warren Zevon’s songwriting prowess and Linda Ronstadt’s interpretive skills.
9. Tracks of My Tears
“Tracks of My Tears” is a classic song written by Smokey Robinson, Warren Moore, and Marvin Tarplin, originally performed by Smokey Robinson and The Miracles in 1965. Linda Ronstadt covered the song on her 1975 album “Prisoner in Disguise.”
Ronstadt’s rendition of “Tracks of My Tears” showcases her ability to interpret soulful ballads with depth and emotion. Her version maintains the essence of the original while adding her own unique vocal stylings.
The song’s lyrics explore the theme of heartbreak and the facade of hiding one’s true emotions behind a smile. Ronstadt’s delivery captures the bittersweet sentiment of the song, resonating with listeners and earning critical acclaim.
“Tracks of My Tears” is regarded as one of Ronstadt’s standout recordings, demonstrating her versatility as an artist capable of infusing soul, rock, and pop into her music while paying homage to the Motown classics.
10. That’ll Be the Day
“That’ll Be the Day” is a rock and roll song originally recorded by Buddy Holly and the Crickets in 1957. It was written by Buddy Holly along with Jerry Allison and Norman Petty. The song’s title and chorus are based on a phrase used by John Wayne’s character in the 1956 film “The Searchers.”
“That’ll Be the Day” became one of Buddy Holly’s signature songs and a pioneering rock and roll hit, reaching the top of the Billboard charts in 1957. Its infectious melody, catchy lyrics, and energetic performance by Buddy Holly and his band contributed to its enduring popularity.
The song has since been covered by numerous artists, including Linda Ronstadt, whose version appeared on her 1976 album “Hasten Down the Wind.” Ronstadt’s rendition infused the song with a country-rock flavor, showcasing her versatile vocal style and bringing new life to the classic track.
Overall, “That’ll Be the Day” remains a timeless classic in the rock and roll genre, celebrated for its memorable melody and its influence on subsequent generations of musicians.