About the song
Phil Everly of the legendary Everly Brothers originally penned the heart-wrenching ballad, “When Will I Be Loved,” in 1960. The song’s timeless themes of longing and unrequited love resonated deeply with audiences, securing a top-ten spot on the US charts. However, it was Linda Ronstadt’s soulful and evocative rendition in 1975 that truly propelled the song to iconic status.
Ronstadt’s version of “When Will I Be Loved” breathed new life into the classic, showcasing her exceptional vocal range and emotional depth. Her interpretation was a departure from the Everly Brothers’ close harmony sound, offering a more intimate and personal perspective on the lyrics. Ronstadt’s velvety voice and nuanced phrasing allowed her to convey the raw vulnerability and longing that lies at the heart of the song, making it a relatable anthem for generations to come.
The song’s success can be attributed to several factors. First, Ronstadt’s timing was impeccable. In the mid-1970s, she was at the peak of her popularity, and her crossover appeal helped to introduce country and folk music to a wider audience. Second, the song’s simple yet powerful melody and lyrics made it easy for listeners to connect with on an emotional level. Finally, Ronstadt’s performance was nothing short of masterful, showcasing her ability to convey complex emotions with subtlety and nuance.
The enduring popularity of “When Will I Be Loved” can also be seen in its inclusion on various soundtracks and compilations over the years. For instance, Vince Gill covered the song in 1994 for the film 8 Seconds, further solidifying its status as a timeless classic.
In conclusion, Linda Ronstadt’s cover of “When Will I Be Loved” is a testament to the power of music to transcend generations and connect with listeners on a deep emotional level. Her soulful rendition of this timeless ballad continues to resonate with audiences today, making it a must-listen for fans of classic rock, country, and pop music alike.
Key elements incorporated:
- Historical context: The introduction provides a brief overview of the song’s origins and the Everly Brothers’ original version.
- Linda Ronstadt’s unique interpretation: The analysis highlights how Ronstadt’s vocal style and emotional delivery set her version apart.
- Reasons for the song’s success: The introduction discusses factors such as timing, melody, lyrics, and Ronstadt’s performance.
- Enduring popularity: The inclusion of the song on various soundtracks and compilations is mentioned to emphasize its timeless appeal.
- Call to action: The conclusion invites readers to listen to the song and appreciate its enduring qualities.
Additional points to consider:
- You could delve deeper into the lyrics and their meaning.
- You could compare and contrast Ronstadt’s version with the original by the Everly Brothers.
- You could discuss the song’s impact on popular culture.
Video
Lyrics
I’ve been cheated
Been mistreated
When will I be loved?
I’ve been put down
I’ve been pushed ’round
When will I be loved?
When I find a new man
That I want for mine
He always breaks my heart in two
It happens every time
I’ve been made blue
I’ve been lied to
When will I be loved?
When I find a new man
That I want for mine
He always breaks my heart in two
It happens every time
Oh, I’ve been cheated
Been mistreated
When will I be loved?
When will I be loved?
Tell me, when will I be loved?
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