Linda Ronstadt is a true legend of American music, a genre-defying artist whose voice has captivated generations. With a career spanning over four decades, Ronstadt has seamlessly blended rock, country, pop, folk, and even opera, earning her a place in the prestigious Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Her extraordinary ability to breathe life into every lyric and her fearless approach to reinterpreting classics have made her one of the most beloved and influential vocalists of all time. Whether she’s belting out a fiery breakup anthem, delivering a heartfelt ballad, or adding her signature touch to timeless hits, Ronstadt’s music continues to resonate deeply with fans around the world.
In this article, we take a closer look at the top 10 most popular Linda Ronstadt songs of all time, celebrating the tracks that have defined her legendary career. From chart-topping hits to unforgettable covers, these songs showcase the depth of her artistry and the sheer power of her voice. Join us on a journey through Ronstadt’s incredible discography as we rediscover the songs that cemented her as one of music’s greatest icons. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just discovering her magic, these tracks are bound to leave you in awe.
1. “You’re No Good” (1974)
When Linda Ronstadt released “You’re No Good” as part of her breakthrough album Heart Like a Wheel in 1974, it was an instant hit that skyrocketed her to superstardom. The song is a sultry, defiant anthem of heartbreak, with Ronstadt delivering a powerhouse vocal performance that blends pop, soul, and rock influences into something undeniably captivating. Originally written by Clint Ballard Jr. and recorded by several artists, it was Ronstadt’s version that truly made waves, hitting number one on the Billboard Hot 100. Her voice, commanding and full of emotion, perfectly matched the track’s slick production and infectious groove. It became one of her most enduring songs, with its fiery energy and raw emotional conviction still resonating with audiences today. “You’re No Good” wasn’t just a hit—it marked the beginning of Ronstadt’s reign as one of the most powerful vocalists of her generation, and remains a classic in her expansive catalog.
2. “Blue Bayou” (1977)
“Blue Bayou,” one of Linda Ronstadt’s most iconic ballads, captured the hearts of listeners with its haunting melody and poignant lyrics. First written and recorded by Roy Orbison in 1963, Ronstadt brought her own magic to the song when she recorded it for her Simple Dreams album in 1977. Her rendition, with its lush instrumentation and subtle country undertones, transformed the track into a deeply emotional ode to longing and nostalgia. Ronstadt’s expressive delivery, filled with heartache and yearning, made the song unforgettable, and it quickly became a fan favorite. Reaching #3 on the Billboard Hot 100, it showcased her unique ability to blend genres like pop, rock, and country, earning both critical acclaim and commercial success. “Blue Bayou” is still remembered today as a quintessential Linda Ronstadt moment—one that solidified her as an artist who could convey profound emotion with every note. Its timeless appeal continues to captivate listeners, making it one of her most beloved hits.
3. “When Will I Be Loved” (1975)
Linda Ronstadt’s 1975 cover of “When Will I Be Loved” from Heart Like a Wheel took the classic Everly Brothers song and gave it new life. Originally a rockabilly hit, Ronstadt’s version transformed the track into a vibrant country-rock anthem, showcasing her remarkable versatility. Her rich, expressive vocals, paired with the upbeat tempo and infectious rhythm, made it impossible not to get swept up in the song’s energy. It’s a relatable tale of heartbreak and longing, with Ronstadt’s voice conveying both strength and vulnerability in equal measure. The song’s infectious hook and catchy melody made it a massive success, peaking at #2 on the Billboard Hot 100. “When Will I Be Loved” cemented Ronstadt’s place as a dominant force in the music world, further establishing her as an artist capable of blending genres and emotional depth effortlessly. To this day, it remains a fan favorite and one of the defining tracks of her career.
4. “It’s So Easy” (1977)
Linda Ronstadt’s interpretation of Buddy Holly’s “It’s So Easy” from her Simple Dreams album is a testament to her ability to reimagine rock and roll classics. Originally a 1950s rockabilly tune, Ronstadt’s version, released in 1977, added a modern twist, giving the song a fresh, polished edge that made it feel both timeless and contemporary. The track’s driving rhythm and infectious energy made it a standout on the album, and Ronstadt’s impeccable vocal control brought out the playful spirit of the song. It was a Top 5 hit on the Billboard Hot 100, further solidifying her reputation as a rock icon. The carefree vibe, combined with Ronstadt’s signature vocal performance, made “It’s So Easy” an enduring classic. Her interpretation of this beloved track not only honored Buddy Holly’s original vision but also showcased her ability to make any song her own, breathing new life into every note.
5. “Different Drum” (1967)
Linda Ronstadt’s career took a major leap forward with “Different Drum,” the song that marked her first real breakthrough. Released in 1967 as part of her work with The Stone Poneys, the track was written by Michael Nesmith of The Monkees and became an anthem of independence. Ronstadt’s clear, crystalline voice, filled with both vulnerability and strength, perfectly conveyed the message of the song—one that spoke to the heart of individuality. The track’s folk-pop arrangement, lush with strings and soft instrumentation, was a departure from the mainstream sound of the era, allowing it to stand out and capture attention. The song charted in the Top 20, opening the door for Ronstadt’s impressive solo career. “Different Drum” remains one of the defining moments of her early work, showcasing the promise of an artist who would go on to shape the music landscape for decades to come.
6. “Desperado” (1973)
Linda Ronstadt’s interpretation of “Desperado,” originally by The Eagles, is one of the standout tracks from her Don’t Cry Now album. While the Eagles’ version was rooted in country-rock, Ronstadt’s take on the song brings out a more intimate, soulful quality. Her rendition focuses on the emotional depth of the lyrics, with her hauntingly beautiful voice capturing the sense of longing and vulnerability in a way that adds a new layer to the original. Though it was never released as a single, Ronstadt’s version became a fan favorite and a key part of her live performances. The subtle instrumentation and the emotional delivery of the song helped to turn “Desperado” into a timeless classic in Ronstadt’s catalog, showcasing her incredible talent for storytelling through music. It remains a perfect example of her ability to take a well-known song and infuse it with her own emotional truth.
7. “Heat Wave” (1975)
Linda Ronstadt’s rendition of “Heat Wave,” originally by Martha and the Vandellas, brought a fresh, fiery energy to this Motown classic. Included on her Prisoner in Disguise album, Ronstadt’s version infused the track with rock elements, while still retaining the infectious rhythm and high-energy groove that made the original so iconic. Her powerful vocals, paired with the bold, rock-infused instrumentation, elevated the song to new heights. Ronstadt’s ability to cross genres effortlessly was on full display here, showcasing her versatility as an artist. “Heat Wave” became one of the standout tracks of the album, further cementing her reputation as a dynamic performer with an unmatched ability to reinvent classic hits. Her passionate, high-energy performance made “Heat Wave” one of her most memorable songs.
8. “Love Is a Rose” (1975)
Neil Young’s “Love Is a Rose” took on a new life when Linda Ronstadt covered it on her Prisoner in Disguise album. With her tender vocals and delicate country influences, Ronstadt turned the song into a gentle ballad that expressed the fragility and beauty of love. The song’s lyrics, which liken love to a rose, perfectly matched Ronstadt’s ability to convey emotion with simplicity and elegance. Her interpretation, both subtle and powerful, resonated with fans across both country and pop genres. The song charted on both the country and pop charts, further showcasing Ronstadt’s ability to blend musical styles seamlessly. “Love Is a Rose” remains one of the standout tracks in her extensive catalog, a beautiful example of her vocal range and emotional depth.
9. “It’s a Hard Life Wherever You Go” (1989)
Linda Ronstadt’s rendition of Nanci Griffith’s “It’s a Hard Life Wherever You Go,” from her Cry Like a Rainstorm, Howl Like the Wind album, is a deeply moving and socially conscious song. Ronstadt’s heartfelt delivery, paired with the poignant lyrics, addresses themes of inequality and human suffering, creating an emotionally charged listening experience. While the song didn’t achieve the commercial success of her earlier hits, it showcased her dedication to telling meaningful stories through music. Ronstadt’s ability to interpret the song with such empathy and conviction highlights her artistic depth and commitment to addressing the struggles of the human experience. “It’s a Hard Life Wherever You Go” proved that Ronstadt’s artistry extended far beyond pop and rock, solidifying her as a truly versatile and emotionally insightful artist.
10. “Long Long Time” (1970)
“Long Long Time,” from Linda Ronstadt’s Silk Purse album, is a heartbreaking ballad about unrequited love that showcases the depth of Ronstadt’s vocal talent. Released in 1970, the song is a raw and emotional plea, with Ronstadt’s voice soaring to convey the pain of longing and heartbreak. The sparse arrangement, featuring delicate acoustic guitar and strings, allows her vocals to take center stage, creating an intimate listening experience. The track earned her a Grammy nomination and remains one of her most powerful early recordings. “Long Long Time” is a testament to Ronstadt’s ability to connect with her audience on a deeply personal level, capturing the raw emotion of love’s heartache. It remains one of her most enduring and beloved songs.
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.
