Linda Ronstadt is a renowned American singer, songwriter, and musician who rose to prominence in the 1960s and became one of the most successful female artists of her era. Born on July 15, 1946, in Tucson, Arizona, Ronstadt has explored various musical genres throughout her career, including rock, pop, country, folk, and Latin.
Ronstadt’s powerful and versatile voice, coupled with her impeccable song selection and interpretation, helped her achieve widespread acclaim and commercial success. She has released numerous hit albums and singles, earning multiple Grammy Awards and other accolades along the way.
Some of Ronstadt’s most iconic songs include “You’re No Good,” “When Will I Be Loved,” “Blue Bayou,” “Desperado,” “Heat Wave,” and “Don’t Know Much,” among many others. She has collaborated with various artists and explored diverse musical styles, leaving a lasting impact on the music industry.
In addition to her successful music career, Ronstadt is also known for her activism and advocacy on various social and environmental issues. In 2013, she was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame for her significant contributions to music.
Linda Ronstadt retired from performing in 2011 due to health reasons, including Parkinson’s disease, but her legacy as one of the most influential voices in popular music continues to endure.
1. Just One Look
“Just One Look” is a popular song written by American rhythm and blues singers Doris Troy and Gregory Carroll. The song was originally recorded by Doris Troy in 1963 and released as a single. It became a hit, reaching the top ten on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
The song’s catchy melody and memorable lyrics center around the theme of love at first sight. The protagonist describes how a single glance from their love interest was all it took to captivate them completely. The lyrics express the immediate and overwhelming attraction experienced in that moment of eye contact.
“Just One Look” has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including versions by The Hollies, Linda Ronstadt, and Anne Murray, among others. Linda Ronstadt’s rendition, released in 1978, was particularly successful, reaching the top ten on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and becoming one of her signature songs.
The song’s enduring popularity and frequent appearances in pop culture attest to its status as a timeless classic. Its catchy melody and universal theme of love make it a beloved favorite among listeners of all ages.
2. Heat Wave
“Heat Wave” is a song originally written by the legendary Motown songwriting team of Holland–Dozier–Holland. It was first recorded by Martha and the Vandellas in 1963 and became a major hit, reaching the top five on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Linda Ronstadt released her cover of “Heat Wave” in 1975 as part of her album “Prisoner in Disguise.” Ronstadt’s rendition of the song showcased her powerful vocals and her ability to infuse her own style into classic tunes. Her version of “Heat Wave” was also well-received and became a hit, further cementing her status as one of the most versatile and talented singers of her time.
3. Hurt So Bad
“Hurt So Bad” is a soulful ballad that has been covered by various artists over the years. The song was originally written by Teddy Randazzo, Bobby Weinstein, and Bobby Hart. It was first recorded by Little Anthony and the Imperials in 1965, and their version became a hit, reaching the top ten on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
One of the most notable covers of “Hurt So Bad” was performed by Linda Ronstadt. She released her rendition of the song in 1980 as part of her album “Mad Love.” Ronstadt’s version of “Hurt So Bad” became a significant hit, reaching the top ten on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and showcasing her exceptional vocal talents.
Ronstadt’s interpretation of the song added a rock-infused edge while still maintaining the emotional depth of the original, making it a standout track in her extensive discography.
4. You’re No Good
“You’re No Good” is a classic rock song written by Clint Ballard Jr. It was first recorded by Dee Dee Warwick in 1963, but it’s Linda Ronstadt’s rendition that is most famous. Ronstadt released her cover of “You’re No Good” in 1974 as part of her album “Heart Like a Wheel.” Her version of the song became a massive hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and earning her a Grammy Award nomination for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance. Ronstadt’s powerful vocals and the rock-infused arrangement contributed to the success of her version, solidifying it as one of her signature songs.
5. Blue Bayou
“Blue Bayou” is a classic song originally written by Roy Orbison and Joe Melson. It was first recorded by Roy Orbison in 1963 and released as a single. The song reached the top 30 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
The lyrics of “Blue Bayou” depict a longing for a return to a place of comfort and happiness, represented by the Blue Bayou. The protagonist expresses a desire to escape the pressures and troubles of everyday life and retreat to this idyllic coastal paradise. The song’s wistful melody and Orbison’s emotive vocals convey a sense of yearning and nostalgia.
Linda Ronstadt recorded a highly successful cover version of “Blue Bayou” in 1977, which became one of her signature songs. Ronstadt’s rendition reached the top five on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and became one of her biggest hits. Her powerful vocal performance and the lush arrangement contributed to the song’s enduring popularity.
“Blue Bayou” has since been covered by numerous artists across different genres, cementing its status as a timeless classic. Its evocative lyrics and beautiful melody continue to resonate with listeners, making it a beloved favorite in the realm of popular music.
6. When Will I Be Loved
“When Will I Be Loved” is a classic song written by Phil Everly of the Everly Brothers. It was first recorded and released by The Everly Brothers in 1960 as a single. The song became a major hit, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
The lyrics of “When Will I Be Loved” express the narrator’s feelings of heartbreak and betrayal in a relationship. The protagonist laments being mistreated and asks when they will find true love and happiness. The song’s catchy melody and the Everly Brothers’ signature harmonies contributed to its success and enduring popularity.
In 1975, Linda Ronstadt recorded a cover version of “When Will I Be Loved” for her album “Heart Like a Wheel.” Ronstadt’s rendition also became a hit, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and further solidifying her status as one of the leading female artists of her time. Her powerful vocal performance and the country-rock arrangement of the song gave it a fresh interpretation while still honoring the original’s spirit.
“When Will I Be Loved” has since been covered by numerous artists across different genres, attesting to its status as a timeless classic in popular music. Its relatable lyrics and memorable melody continue to resonate with audiences, making it a beloved favorite for generations.
7. It’s So Easy
“It’s So Easy” is a song written by Buddy Holly and Norman Petty. Originally recorded by Buddy Holly and the Crickets in 1958, it was released as a single with “Heartbeat” as the B-side. The song features Holly’s signature rock and roll style and catchy melodies.
Linda Ronstadt also recorded a cover of “It’s So Easy” for her 1977 album “Simple Dreams.” Ronstadt’s rendition of the song was a significant commercial success, reaching the top five on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Her version features a more polished and pop-oriented sound compared to the raw energy of the original, showcasing Ronstadt’s versatility as an artist across different genres.
8. Poor Poor Pitiful Me
“Poor Poor Pitiful Me” is a song written and originally recorded by Warren Zevon, appearing on his 1976 self-titled album. The song tells the story of a woman who encounters various romantic disappointments and hardships, expressing her woes in a humorous and self-deprecating manner.
Linda Ronstadt recorded a cover version of “Poor Poor Pitiful Me” for her 1977 album “Simple Dreams.” Ronstadt’s rendition became a hit, reaching the top 40 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and helping to popularize the song. Her energetic performance and the lively arrangement of the song contributed to its success.
The song’s catchy melody and witty lyrics have made it a favorite among listeners and have led to numerous covers by other artists over the years. “Poor Poor Pitiful Me” has become one of Linda Ronstadt’s signature songs and remains a classic in the realm of rock and country music.
9. Tracks of My Tears
“Tracks of My Tears” is a classic soul song originally recorded by Smokey Robinson and the Miracles in 1965. It was written by Robinson, Warren “Pete” Moore, and Marv Tarplin. The song features Robinson’s emotive vocals and poignant lyrics, describing a person who hides their sadness behind a façade of smiles and laughter.
Linda Ronstadt covered “Tracks of My Tears” on her 1975 album “Prisoner in Disguise.” Her rendition of the song was well-received and showcased her ability to interpret and convey the emotional depth of the original. Ronstadt’s version maintains the soulful essence of the original while adding her own unique vocal stylings, contributing to the song’s enduring popularity.
10. That’ll Be the Day
“That’ll Be the Day” is a classic rock and roll song written by Buddy Holly, Jerry Allison, and Norman Petty. It was first recorded by Buddy Holly and the Crickets in 1957 and released as a single. The song’s title and chorus are based on a phrase used by John Wayne’s character in the movie “The Searchers.”
“That’ll Be the Day” became a major hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and number three on the UK Singles Chart. The song’s upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and Holly’s distinctive vocal style contributed to its success and enduring popularity.
The lyrics of “That’ll Be the Day” depict the narrator’s determination to prove someone wrong and achieve their dreams despite doubts or obstacles. The phrase “that’ll be the day” is used as a dismissive retort to skepticism or disbelief, emphasizing the narrator’s confidence and resolve.
The song has since been covered by numerous artists and has become a rock and roll standard. Its infectious energy and memorable hook have solidified its status as one of Buddy Holly’s most iconic songs and a timeless classic in the history of rock music.