Linda Ronstadt is a highly acclaimed American singer, known for her versatile vocal range and diverse musical style. Born on July 15, 1946, in Tucson, Arizona, she rose to prominence in the 1960s and 1970s as one of the most successful female artists in the rock and folk music genres.
Ronstadt’s career spans multiple genres, including rock, country, folk, jazz, and Latin music. She is known for hits such as “You’re No Good,” “Blue Bayou,” “When Will I Be Loved,” and “Heat Wave.” Her voice is celebrated for its power, clarity, and emotional depth.
Throughout her career, Ronstadt received numerous awards and accolades, including 11 Grammy Awards. She was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2014.
In addition to her musical career, Ronstadt has been involved in various social and political causes, including advocating for the rights of immigrants and environmental conservation.
Unfortunately, in recent years, Ronstadt has faced health challenges, including Parkinson’s disease, which has affected her ability to sing. Despite this, her impact on the music industry and her enduring legacy as one of the greatest female vocalists of all time remains unquestionable.
1. You’re No Good
“You’re No Good” is one of Linda Ronstadt’s most famous songs, released in 1974 as a single from her album “Heart Like a Wheel.” The song was originally written by Clint Ballard Jr. and was first recorded by Dee Dee Warwick in 1963. Ronstadt’s rendition of “You’re No Good” became a major hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in February 1975.
The song features Ronstadt’s powerful vocals and showcases her ability to infuse emotion into her performances. Its catchy melody and relatable lyrics about heartbreak struck a chord with listeners, contributing to its commercial success and enduring popularity.
“You’re No Good” remains one of Linda Ronstadt’s signature songs and is often considered a classic of 1970s rock music.
2. When Will I Be Loved
“When Will I Be Loved” is another popular song by Linda Ronstadt, released in 1975 as a single from her album “Heart Like a Wheel.” The song was written by Phil Everly of the Everly Brothers and originally released by the Everly Brothers in 1960.
Ronstadt’s rendition of “When Will I Be Loved” was a commercial success, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. The song features Ronstadt’s soulful vocals and showcases her ability to convey emotion through her singing.
“When Will I Be Loved” is a timeless classic that has been covered by numerous artists over the years. Ronstadt’s version remains one of the most popular and enduring interpretations of the song, further solidifying her reputation as one of the greatest female vocalists in the history of popular music.
3. Don’t Know Much
“Don’t Know Much” is a Grammy Award-winning song performed as a duet by Linda Ronstadt and Aaron Neville. It was released in 1989 as part of Ronstadt’s album “Cry Like a Rainstorm, Howl Like the Wind.” The song was written by Barry Mann, Cynthia Weil, and Tom Snow.
“Don’t Know Much” became a massive hit, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and number one on the Adult Contemporary chart in the United States. The song also earned Ronstadt and Neville a Grammy Award for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal in 1990.
The duet features Ronstadt and Neville’s soulful voices blending together beautifully over a romantic melody. The lyrics express themes of love, longing, and uncertainty, making it a timeless ballad that resonated with audiences around the world.
“Don’t Know Much” remains one of Linda Ronstadt’s most beloved and successful songs, and it continues to be a favorite among fans of both artists.
4. Blue Bayou
“Blue Bayou” is a classic song performed by Linda Ronstadt. It was originally written by Roy Orbison and Joe Melson and first released by Orbison in 1963 as the B-side to his single “Mean Woman Blues.”
Linda Ronstadt’s version of “Blue Bayou” was released on her 1977 album “Simple Dreams.” Her rendition of the song became a major hit, reaching number three on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. It also reached the top of the Adult Contemporary chart.
The song’s dreamy melody and Ronstadt’s emotive vocals contributed to its widespread popularity. The lyrics evoke a sense of longing and nostalgia as the singer expresses a desire to return to a place of comfort and happiness, symbolized by the “Blue Bayou.”
“Blue Bayou” is considered one of Linda Ronstadt’s signature songs and remains a timeless classic in the realm of pop and rock music.
5. Ooh Baby Baby
“Ooh Baby Baby” is a classic soul song originally recorded by the Miracles, led by Smokey Robinson. It was written by Robinson and fellow Miracle member Pete Moore and released in 1965 on the Tamla label. The song became a hit, reaching number 16 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States.
Linda Ronstadt recorded a cover version of “Ooh Baby Baby” for her 1978 album “Living in the USA.” Her rendition of the song showcased her powerful vocals and her ability to interpret soulful material. While Ronstadt’s version did not achieve the same chart success as the original, it was well-received by critics and fans alike and remains a standout track in her repertoire.
“Ooh Baby Baby” is a soulful ballad that expresses themes of love, heartache, and longing. Both the Miracles’ original and Linda Ronstadt’s cover are celebrated as timeless classics in the realm of R&B and soul music.
6. Poor Poor Pitiful Me
“Poor Poor Pitiful Me” is a song written by Warren Zevon that was first released on his 1976 self-titled album, “Warren Zevon.” The song gained wider recognition when Linda Ronstadt recorded a cover version for her 1977 album “Simple Dreams.”
Linda Ronstadt’s rendition of “Poor Poor Pitiful Me” became a hit, reaching number 31 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. The song features Ronstadt’s signature vocals and a lively arrangement that combines elements of rock, country, and pop.
The lyrics of “Poor Poor Pitiful Me” tell the story of a woman who feels unlucky in love and repeatedly finds herself in unfortunate romantic situations. Despite its somewhat humorous tone, the song also conveys a sense of vulnerability and resilience.
“Poor Poor Pitiful Me” is often regarded as one of Linda Ronstadt’s standout tracks and remains a favorite among fans of her music. It has also been covered by various artists over the years, further cementing its status as a classic in the realm of rock and country music.
7. Desperado
“Desperado” is a classic song written by Don Henley and Glenn Frey, members of the Eagles. It was included on the Eagles’ second studio album, also titled “Desperado,” released in 1973. The song is notable for its poignant lyrics and beautiful melody, which have made it one of the band’s most enduring and beloved compositions.
“Desperado” is a ballad that tells the story of a lone cowboy or outlaw who is searching for love but is haunted by his past and unable to fully connect with others. The song’s evocative imagery and emotional depth have resonated with listeners for decades, making it a staple of the Eagles’ repertoire and a classic of the country rock genre.
Linda Ronstadt also recorded a popular cover version of “Desperado” for her 1973 album “Don’t Cry Now.” Her rendition of the song showcases her powerful vocals and her ability to convey the song’s themes of longing and vulnerability. Ronstadt’s version of “Desperado” became a hit in its own right and remains one of her most iconic recordings.
Overall, “Desperado” is regarded as one of the Eagles’ greatest achievements as songwriters and performers, and it continues to be celebrated as a timeless masterpiece in the world of popular music.
8. It’s So Easy
“It’s So Easy” is a rock and roll song written by Buddy Holly and Norman Petty. It was originally recorded by Buddy Holly and the Crickets in 1958 and released as a single. The song features Holly’s signature upbeat style and catchy melody.
Linda Ronstadt recorded a cover version of “It’s So Easy” for her 1977 album “Simple Dreams.” Ronstadt’s rendition of the song features a more rock-oriented arrangement compared to the original, with prominent electric guitars and a driving rhythm section. Her version of “It’s So Easy” was released as a single and became a hit, reaching number five on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States.
Ronstadt’s cover of “It’s So Easy” showcases her powerful vocals and her ability to infuse rock and roll classics with her own unique style. The song remains a fan favorite and is often included in retrospectives of Ronstadt’s career.
Overall, “It’s So Easy” is a timeless rock and roll classic that has been embraced by multiple generations of music lovers, both in its original form by Buddy Holly and in Linda Ronstadt’s popular cover version.
9. All My Life
“All My Life” is a romantic ballad performed as a duet by Linda Ronstadt and Aaron Neville. It was released in 1989 as part of Ronstadt’s album “Cry Like a Rainstorm, Howl Like the Wind.” The song was written by Karla Bonoff.
“All My Life” became a hit, reaching number 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. The duet features Ronstadt and Neville’s soulful vocals blending together beautifully over a lush arrangement, creating a heartfelt and emotional performance.
The lyrics of “All My Life” express themes of love, devotion, and commitment, making it a popular choice for weddings and romantic occasions. Ronstadt and Neville’s chemistry and vocal harmonies add to the song’s emotional impact, making it a standout track on the album.
Overall, “All My Life” is celebrated as one of Linda Ronstadt’s most memorable recordings and remains a favorite among fans of both artists.
10. Somewhere Out There
“Somewhere Out There” is a song from the animated film “An American Tail,” released in 1986. The music was composed by James Horner, and the lyrics were written by Cynthia Weil and Barry Mann. The song is performed as a duet between characters Fievel Mousekewitz and his sister Tanya in the film.
However, the version that became widely popular was the duet rendition performed by Linda Ronstadt and James Ingram for the film’s soundtrack. Released as a single in 1986, Ronstadt and Ingram’s version of “Somewhere Out There” became a massive hit, reaching number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and winning a Grammy Award for Song of the Year in 1987.
The song is a poignant ballad about separation and longing, with lyrics expressing hope and love despite physical distance. Ronstadt and Ingram’s powerful vocals and heartfelt delivery contributed to the song’s emotional impact and widespread appeal.
“Somewhere Out There” remains one of Linda Ronstadt’s most iconic recordings and is often remembered as a timeless classic from both the film and the era in which it was released.