Linda Ronstadt is a multi-platinum selling singer and songwriter who rose to fame in the 1970s with her powerful vocals and diverse musical styles. Born in Arizona in 1946, Ronstadt began her career in the folk and country scenes before expanding into rock, pop, and even opera. Her music is known for its emotional depth and wide range, often exploring themes of love, loss, and personal growth.
Ronstadt’s career spans more than four decades, during which she has released over 30 albums and won numerous awards, including 11 Grammy Awards. She has sold over 50 million records worldwide, making her one of the most successful and influential female artists of all time.
In addition to her music, Ronstadt is also known for her activism and humanitarian work. She has been a vocal advocate for causes such as environmental conservation and the rights of farmworkers.
Ronstadt retired from music in 2011 due to health issues, but her legacy as an artist and cultural icon continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world. Her contributions to the music industry have earned her a place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Songwriters Hall of Fame, and the Latin Grammy Hall of Fame.
1. Willin’
“Willin'” is a song by Linda Ronstadt that was released in 1974 on her album “Heart Like a Wheel”. The song was originally written by Lowell George and performed by his band Little Feat, and Ronstadt’s cover features her signature soaring vocals and a twangy country-rock arrangement. The lyrics reflect on the challenges and sacrifices of life on the road, with the chorus proclaiming a willingness to “be movin’ along”. Ronstadt’s version of “Willin'” remains a fan favorite and a testament to her ability to infuse her own unique style and interpretation into classic songs from a variety of genres.
2. Don’t Know Much
“Don’t Know Much” is a song by American singer Linda Ronstadt, released in 1989 as a part of her album “Cry Like a Rainstorm, Howl Like the Wind”. The song is a duet with Aaron Neville, and its lyrics express the yearning and uncertainty of a new romantic relationship, with Ronstadt and Neville singing about their mutual desire and hesitancy. The song features a lush, orchestral arrangement, with Ronstadt’s and Neville’s soulful vocals complementing each other perfectly and creating a harmonious and emotive blend. “Don’t Know Much” became a hit for Ronstadt and Neville, showcasing their impressive vocal abilities and the song’s timeless appeal, and cementing its status as a classic of the adult contemporary genre.
3. My Funny Valentine
“My Funny Valentine” is a song by Linda Ronstadt, released in 1983 on her album “What’s New”. The track is a heartfelt and emotional ballad, featuring Ronstadt’s soaring vocals and a lush orchestral arrangement. The lyrics express a deep and sincere love for someone despite their flaws and imperfections. Ronstadt’s rendition of the classic jazz standard is a testament to her vocal talent and ability to convey emotion through her singing. “My Funny Valentine” is a beautiful and timeless song that has been covered by many artists, but Ronstadt’s version stands out as a standout performance in her career.
4. Blue Bayou
“Blue Bayou” is a song by Linda Ronstadt that was released in 1977 on her album “Simple Dreams”. The song features Ronstadt’s soulful vocals and a lush, orchestral arrangement, delivering lyrics that express longing and a desire to return to a place of comfort and familiarity. The song was originally written and recorded by Roy Orbison, and Ronstadt’s cover became a huge hit, reaching the top 5 on the charts in both the US and the UK. “Blue Bayou” remains a fan favorite and a testament to Ronstadt’s ability to create emotionally resonant interpretations of classic songs.
5. Tumbling Dice
“Tumbling Dice” is a song by American singer Linda Ronstadt, released in 1978 as a part of her album “Living in the USA”. The song was originally written and recorded by The Rolling Stones, and Ronstadt’s version features a soulful and bluesy arrangement, with her powerful vocals adding a unique spin to the classic rock tune. The song’s lyrics describe the ups and downs of life and love, with Ronstadt’s passionate delivery conveying a sense of vulnerability and resilience. “Tumbling Dice” became a hit for Ronstadt, showcasing her ability to reinterpret classic rock songs and make them her own, and cementing her status as one of the most versatile and influential singers of her time.
6. Silver Threads And Golden Needles
“Silver Threads And Golden Needles” is a song by Linda Ronstadt, released in 1973 on her album “Don’t Cry Now”. The track is a lively and upbeat country rock song, featuring Ronstadt’s powerful vocals and a driving rhythm section. The lyrics tell the story of a woman who is done with a relationship and has moved on, with a message of empowerment and self-confidence. Ronstadt’s version of the song is a nod to the classic country and western genre, with a modern twist that helped it appeal to a wider audience. “Silver Threads And Golden Needles” remains one of Ronstadt’s most beloved and iconic songs, showcasing her versatility and musical range.
7. Long Long Time
“Long Long Time” is a song by Linda Ronstadt that was released in 1970 on her album “Silk Purse”. The song features Ronstadt’s powerful vocals and a gentle, folk-inspired arrangement, delivering lyrics that reflect on the pain and longing of lost love. “Long Long Time” became a hit for Ronstadt, reaching the top 40 on the charts in the US, and has since become one of her most beloved and enduring songs. Its emotional depth and poetic lyrics continue to resonate with listeners, making it a true classic of the singer-songwriter genre.
8. Poor, Poor Pitiful Me
“Poor, Poor Pitiful Me” is a song by American singer Linda Ronstadt, released in 1977 as a part of her album “Simple Dreams”. The song was written by Warren Zevon and tells the story of a woman who falls in love with a series of bad boys, with Ronstadt’s vocals conveying a sense of defiance and heartbreak. The song features a driving, guitar-heavy arrangement, with Ronstadt’s powerful vocals and the infectious melody creating a memorable and anthemic tune. “Poor, Poor Pitiful Me” became a hit for Ronstadt, showcasing her ability to connect with audiences and her talent for choosing timeless and relatable songs, and cementing the song’s status as a classic of the rock genre.
9. It’s So Easy
“It’s So Easy” is a song by Linda Ronstadt, released in 1977 on her album “Simple Dreams”. The track is a catchy and upbeat rock song, featuring Ronstadt’s smooth and powerful vocals and a driving guitar riff. The lyrics celebrate the ease and simplicity of falling in love, with a carefree and optimistic tone. Ronstadt’s rendition of the song helped make it a hit, reaching the top 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. “It’s So Easy” remains one of Ronstadt’s most popular and recognizable songs, showcasing her ability to deliver a memorable and infectious rock tune with ease.
10. You’re No Good
“You’re No Good” is a song by Linda Ronstadt, released in 1974 on her album “Heart Like a Wheel”. The track is a powerful and soulful rock song, featuring Ronstadt’s signature vocals and a driving rhythm section. The lyrics tell the story of a woman who has had enough of a toxic relationship and is ready to move on. Ronstadt’s rendition of the song helped make it a hit, reaching the top 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. “You’re No Good” remains one of Ronstadt’s most iconic and memorable songs, showcasing her ability to deliver a powerful and emotional performance.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
