Linda Ronstadt, a name synonymous with versatility and vocal prowess, cemented her place as one of the leading female vocalists of the 1970s with her diverse repertoire spanning rock, country, and even operetta. Having already achieved considerable success with hits like “You’re No Good” and “When Will I Be Loved,” Ronstadt continued her reign with her 1976 album, “Hasten Down the Wind.” This album featured a particularly poignant and powerful rendition of Buddy Holly’s classic, “That’ll Be the Day.”
While Buddy Holly’s original version is a rock and roll standard, Ronstadt’s interpretation offers a softer, more melancholic take, trading the upbeat tempo for a gentle, almost mournful ballad. Her soulful vocals, backed by a delicate arrangement featuring acoustic instruments and subtle harmonies, imbue the song with a fresh emotional depth. “Hasten Down the Wind,” the album featuring this rendition, was a critical and commercial success, reaching number 3 on the Billboard 200 chart and earning Ronstadt a Grammy Award for Best Pop Vocal Performance, Female.
“That’ll Be the Day,” regardless of its original upbeat tone, speaks to the pain of unrequited love and the lingering sting of rejection. The lyrics express a defiant, albeit heartbroken, response to a lover’s dismissal, promising that the day of their reunion is unlikely. Ronstadt’s version amplifies this underlying sadness, highlighting the vulnerability beneath the seemingly confident facade.
Audience reaction to Ronstadt’s “That’ll Be the Day” has been overwhelmingly positive, with many praising her ability to transform a classic into something uniquely her own. Listeners often comment on the emotional weight and sincerity of her performance, noting how her vocal delivery and the subtle instrumentation create a deeply moving listening experience. It’s a testament to Ronstadt’s artistry that she could take a familiar song and make it resonate with such profound feeling.
