About the song
Linda Ronstadt, an iconic figure in American music, recorded a cover of “Hurt So Bad” for her Platinum-certified album, *Mad Love*, in 1980. This album, produced by Peter Asher and released on Asylum Records, showcased Ronstadt’s versatility and ability to reinterpret classic songs with her unique vocal style. “Hurt So Bad,” originally written by Teddy Randazzo, Bobby Weinstein, and Bobby Hart, had been covered by various artists, but Linda’s rendition became the most successful version of the song.
Ronstadt’s cover of “Hurt So Bad” was released as the second single from *Mad Love*. The song featured a notable guitar solo by Danny Kortchmar, adding a distinct rock edge to the soulful ballad. Linda’s powerful and emotive voice brought new life to the song, resonating with audiences and critics alike.
The success of “Hurt So Bad” was significant. It peaked at number 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number 9 on the Cash Box Top 100 chart in the spring of 1980. This achievement marked Ronstadt’s final Top 10 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 as a solo artist, cementing her legacy in the music industry. The song’s popularity helped *Mad Love* achieve Platinum status, highlighting Linda’s ability to cross genres and appeal to a wide audience.
Ronstadt’s career, spanning several decades, is marked by her exploration of various musical styles, including rock, country, jazz, and Latin music. Her rendition of “Hurt So Bad” is a testament to her talent and versatility, as she seamlessly blends her distinctive voice with the song’s emotional depth. The collaboration with Peter Asher and Danny Kortchmar on this track further exemplifies her knack for choosing the right partners to enhance her musical vision.
For older, educated audiences, Linda Ronstadt’s “Hurt So Bad” is a nostalgic reminder of the rich musical landscape of the 1980s. Her interpretation of the song, with its raw emotion and rock-infused arrangement, stands out as a classic example of her artistic prowess. It not only highlights her vocal strength but also her ability to connect with listeners on a deeply emotional level.
In revisiting Linda Ronstadt’s cover of “Hurt So Bad,” one can appreciate the skill and passion she brought to her performances. Her rendition remains a beloved piece of her extensive discography, illustrating her enduring influence on the music industry. The song’s success and Ronstadt’s masterful interpretation ensure that “Hurt So Bad” continues to be celebrated by fans old and new, preserving her legacy as one of the most versatile and impactful artists of her time.
Video
Lyrics
I know you
Don’t know what I’m going through
Standing here looking at you
Well let me tell you that it hurts so bad
It makes me feel so sad
It makes me hurt so bad to see you again
Like needles and pins
People say, “You’ve been making out okay
He’s in love, don’t stand in his way”
Well let me tell you that it hurts so bad
It makes me feel so sad
It’s gonna hurt so bad if you walk away
Why don’t you stay and let me make it up to you?
I’ll do anything you want me to
You loved me before, please love me again
I can’t let you go back to her
Please don’t go
Please don’t go
Please don’t go
Please don’t go
Hurt so bad
Come back it hurts so bad
Don’t make it hurt so bad
I’m begging you please
Oh oh oh
Come back it hurts so bad
Come back it hurts so bad
I’m begging you please
Oh! No!
No!