Linda Ronstadt, a powerhouse vocalist renowned for her versatility and captivating stage presence, is the artist behind the 1976 rendition of “That’ll Be the Day,” a song originally popularized by Buddy Holly and the Crickets. Ronstadt’s version injected a fresh perspective into the classic, solidifying her status as one of the defining voices of the 1970s and beyond. Ronstadt, a multi-Grammy Award winner, also received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and a National Medal of Arts, boasts a discography that spans genres from country rock to opera, showcasing her remarkable vocal range and interpretative abilities. While “That’ll Be the Day” wasn’t one of Ronstadt’s chart-topping hits like “You’re No Good” or “Blue Bayou,” it became a beloved part of her repertoire, frequently featured in her live performances and contributing to the overall success of her massively popular album “Hasten Down the Wind.”
The song, regardless of the version, essentially deals with bravado and heartbreak. The singer initially proclaims they’ll die before facing a lover’s departure, only to backtrack once the heartbreak actually arrives. It’s a relatable narrative of youthful naiveté and the sting of reality, a theme that resonates across generations. Ronstadt’s interpretation, with its lush instrumentation and her emotionally charged delivery, accentuates the vulnerability and regret embedded within the lyrics.
Audience feedback on Ronstadt’s “That’ll Be the Day” is overwhelmingly positive. Fans appreciate her respectful yet individual approach to the song, praising her ability to capture the inherent melancholy while imbuing it with her signature style. Many consider it a standout track on “Hasten Down the Wind,” highlighting her vocal prowess and the song’s overall arrangement. While opinions differ on whether it surpasses the original, most agree that Ronstadt’s rendition is a beautifully crafted and heartfelt tribute to a rock and roll classic.
