Linda Ronstadt’s 1975 rendition of “When Will I Be Loved” is more than just a catchy tune; it’s a definitive anthem of longing and unrequited affection, delivered with Ronstadt’s signature powerful vocals and country-rock sensibility. Ronstadt, a powerhouse vocalist and key figure in the California rock scene of the 1970s, built a diverse career spanning rock, country, light opera, and Latin music. She’s racked up an impressive collection of awards, including 11 Grammy Awards, three American Music Awards, and two Academy of Country Music Awards, showcasing her versatility and enduring appeal across genres. Several of her albums achieved platinum status, solidifying her place as one of the best-selling female artists of all time.
“When Will I Be Loved,” originally written and performed by the Everly Brothers in 1960, takes on a different texture in Ronstadt’s hands. While the Everly Brothers’ version is more pop-oriented, Ronstadt infuses it with a raw, almost desperate edge. The lyrics express the frustration and heartache of someone constantly giving love but receiving little in return. It’s a universal theme that resonates deeply: the yearning for genuine connection and the pain of feeling undervalued in a relationship.
Ronstadt’s version, featuring Andrew Gold’s distinctive guitar work, became a massive hit, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It’s often cited as a prime example of her ability to take existing songs and transform them into something uniquely her own. Audience reception was overwhelmingly positive, with critics and fans alike praising her vocal delivery and the song’s emotional impact. People connected with the honesty and vulnerability in her performance, recognizing their own experiences with love and loss in the lyrics. It cemented her position as a leading voice for women in rock and continues to be a beloved classic today.