Linda Ronstadt is a true icon of American music, a vocalist whose unparalleled talent transcended genres and boundaries. With a career spanning over four decades, she has left an indelible mark on rock, country, folk, pop, and even opera, making her one of the most versatile and beloved artists of all time. Whether belting out fiery rock anthems, delivering heartbreaking ballads, or reimagining timeless classics, Ronstadt’s voice has the rare ability to move listeners to their core. Her artistry has earned her countless accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards, and her timeless songs continue to inspire generations of fans and musicians alike.
In this article, we celebrate Linda Ronstadt’s enduring legacy by counting down her top 10 most popular songs of all time. From the sultry power of “You’re No Good” to the wistful beauty of “Blue Bayou,” these tracks showcase the depth and range of her artistry. Each song tells a story, capturing moments of love, heartbreak, and triumph with a voice that’s both powerful and intimate. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering her music for the first time, this journey through her greatest hits will remind you why Linda Ronstadt remains one of the most influential artists in music history.
1. “You’re No Good” (1974)
Released in 1974 as part of Linda Ronstadt’s breakthrough album Heart Like a Wheel, “You’re No Good” became the song that cemented her place as a powerhouse in mainstream music. This sultry and commanding anthem is a fiery declaration of independence, with Ronstadt’s rich, emotive voice delivering a definitive farewell to a toxic love. Originally penned by Clint Ballard Jr. and previously recorded by other artists, Ronstadt’s version stands out as the quintessential interpretation. The track’s blend of rock and soul, paired with a dynamic guitar solo and punchy arrangement, helped propel it to the top of the Billboard Hot 100. It’s not just a song—it’s a bold statement of self-worth, showcasing Ronstadt’s unparalleled ability to transform a melody into an unforgettable emotional experience.
2. “Blue Bayou” (1977)
Linda Ronstadt’s rendition of “Blue Bayou,” released in 1977 on her Simple Dreams album, is one of her most iconic performances. Originally written by Roy Orbison and Joe Melson, the song’s vivid imagery of longing and homesickness transports listeners to a dreamlike place. Ronstadt’s crystal-clear vocals, imbued with emotional depth, breathe new life into the classic, earning her a Grammy nomination and solidifying her reputation as a master interpreter. The lush arrangement, coupled with her soaring delivery, evokes a blend of beauty and melancholy that resonates with listeners. “Blue Bayou” became a massive hit, peaking at No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100, and remains one of Ronstadt’s most beloved songs, embodying her ability to channel universal emotions through her extraordinary voice.
3. “When Will I Be Loved” (1975)
Linda Ronstadt’s 1975 reimagining of the Everly Brothers’ hit “When Will I Be Loved” exemplifies her talent for reinvigorating classic rock songs. Featured on her Heart Like a Wheel album, this upbeat country-rock gem became a fan favorite. With tight harmonies, a lively instrumental arrangement, and Ronstadt’s heartfelt delivery, the track climbed to No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100. Her ability to seamlessly blend genres is on full display here, transforming the original into a jubilant anthem of longing for true love. Ronstadt’s spirited performance and infectious energy turn “When Will I Be Loved” into an enduring classic that continues to charm audiences.
4. “It’s So Easy” (1977)
In 1977, Linda Ronstadt brought her signature style to “It’s So Easy,” a track originally penned by Buddy Holly. Featured on her Simple Dreams album, Ronstadt’s version gives the song a rock-infused edge. Her confident and sultry delivery captures the reckless thrill of falling in love, while the twangy guitar riffs and driving rhythm add infectious energy to the track. The song became a Top 5 hit, cementing Ronstadt’s ability to reimagine rockabilly classics with a fresh and modern twist. “It’s So Easy” remains a quintessential example of her talent for making timeless songs her own.
5. “Different Drum” (1967)
Before Linda Ronstadt became a solo star, she delivered a breakthrough performance with “Different Drum” as the lead singer of The Stone Poneys in 1967. Written by Michael Nesmith of The Monkees, the folk-pop song explores themes of independence and self-discovery. Ronstadt’s tender yet assertive vocals provided the emotional heart of the track, making it an instant hit and the group’s breakout single. The song climbed into the Top 15 on the Billboard Hot 100 and served as a preview of Ronstadt’s future genre-hopping brilliance. “Different Drum” remains a timeless anthem of individuality, showcasing her natural charisma and vocal versatility.
6. “Desperado” (1973)
Linda Ronstadt’s 1973 cover of the Eagles’ “Desperado,” featured on her Don’t Cry Now album, is a stunning display of vocal storytelling. Stripping the song to its emotional core, Ronstadt’s heartfelt interpretation elevates the ballad to new heights. Her tender delivery, paired with lush orchestration, brings a vulnerability to the Eagles’ original that makes her version unforgettable. Though not released as a single, “Desperado” became one of Ronstadt’s signature performances, beloved by fans and critics alike. It remains a testament to her ability to connect deeply with listeners through her voice.
7. “Heat Wave” (1975)
Linda Ronstadt turned up the intensity with her 1975 cover of “Heat Wave,” originally a Motown classic by Martha and the Vandellas. Featured on her Prisoner in Disguise album, Ronstadt’s version reimagines the song with a rock edge while retaining its infectious energy. Her powerhouse vocals, matched with fiery instrumentation and a driving rhythm, make the track an electrifying standout. This high-energy performance showcases Ronstadt’s ability to infuse pop classics with her own dynamic style, proving her versatility and fearless approach to reinterpreting beloved songs.
8. “Long, Long Time” (1970)
“Long, Long Time,” released in 1970 on Linda Ronstadt’s Silk Purse album, is a haunting ballad that cemented her as a rising solo artist. Written by Gary White, the song captures the ache of unrequited love with raw vulnerability. Ronstadt’s delicate and deeply emotional vocals make every word resonate, turning the track into an intimate confessional. The sparse, countrified arrangement underscores the song’s poignant themes. The performance earned Ronstadt her first Grammy nomination and remains one of her most heart-wrenching recordings, illustrating her unparalleled ability to connect with listeners on an emotional level.
9. “Love Is a Rose” (1975)
Linda Ronstadt’s 1975 rendition of Neil Young’s “Love Is a Rose,” included on her Prisoner in Disguise album, is a tender exploration of love’s fragility. Her warm, honeyed vocals lend an intimate quality to Young’s lyrics, while the acoustic-driven arrangement enhances the song’s timeless appeal. “Love Is a Rose” became a Top 5 hit on the country charts, further solidifying Ronstadt’s status as a versatile artist who could seamlessly navigate between genres. This heartfelt interpretation highlights her ability to amplify the emotional essence of every song she touches.
10. “Tracks of My Tears” (1975)
Linda Ronstadt brought new depth to Smokey Robinson’s “Tracks of My Tears” with her 1975 cover, featured on her Prisoner in Disguise album. Blending soft rock with a touch of soulful melancholy, her version pays homage to the Motown classic while introducing a fresh vulnerability. Ronstadt’s expressive vocals capture the heartbreak and yearning at the song’s core, making her rendition a standout moment in her career. By honoring the original while infusing it with her own artistry, Ronstadt once again demonstrated her unique ability to make timeless songs resonate with new audiences.
Samuel Moore 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.
