About the song
“Lotta Love” is a captivating and soulful song performed by Nicolette Larson, a versatile singer whose talent shone brightly in the late 1970s. Written by Neil Young, this track became Larson’s signature song and one of her most memorable hits. Released in 1978 as part of her debut album, *Nicolette*, “Lotta Love” quickly garnered widespread acclaim and established Larson as a prominent figure in the music industry.
The song’s genesis is quite fascinating. Neil Young originally wrote and recorded “Lotta Love” for his 1978 album *Comes a Time*. However, it was Larson’s version that truly brought the song to life for a broader audience. With its infectious rhythm and upbeat melody, Larson’s rendition of “Lotta Love” showcased her unique ability to blend pop, rock, and country influences seamlessly. Her warm and inviting vocals, coupled with the song’s catchy chorus, made it an instant favorite on the airwaves.
“Lotta Love” achieved significant commercial success. It reached No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and also climbed to No. 1 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart, highlighting its cross-genre appeal. This success was instrumental in propelling Larson’s debut album, *Nicolette*, to popularity. The album itself featured a mix of country-rock and pop songs, reflecting Larson’s diverse musical influences and her ability to infuse each track with her distinctive style.
One of the song’s most notable features is its lush production, which includes a vibrant arrangement of brass, strings, and a prominent saxophone solo. This rich instrumentation, combined with Larson’s smooth vocal delivery, gives “Lotta Love” its timeless appeal. The production work of Ted Templeman, who also produced albums for artists like Van Morrison and the Doobie Brothers, added a layer of polish that made the song stand out.
Nicolette Larson’s interpretation of “Lotta Love” not only cemented her place in the music industry but also left a lasting impression on fans and critics alike. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to Larson’s talent and the emotional resonance of her performance. Over the years, “Lotta Love” has been covered by various artists, but Larson’s version remains definitive, capturing the spirit of the late 1970s with its blend of optimism and heartfelt emotion.
In addition to its chart success, “Lotta Love” earned Larson critical acclaim. Her ability to convey the song’s message of love and devotion with sincerity and warmth resonated with listeners, making it a beloved classic. Larson’s career continued to flourish after the release of “Lotta Love,” and she remained an influential figure in the music industry until her untimely passing in 1997.
In conclusion, “Lotta Love” by Nicolette Larson is more than just a hit song; it is a timeless piece that encapsulates the essence of late 1970s pop and rock music. Larson’s heartfelt performance and the song’s uplifting melody continue to captivate audiences, ensuring its place in the pantheon of classic hits.
Video
Lyrics
Lotta Love
Nicolette Larson
(Neil Young)
INTRO: La La La La La La La La La
Ooh, Ooh
It’s gonna take a lotta love
To change the way things are.
It’s gonna take a lotta love
Or we won’t get too far
So if you look in my direction
And we don’t see eye to eye,
My heart needs protection and so do I.
It’s gonna take a lotta love
To get us through the night.
It’s gonna take a lotta love
To make things work out right.
So if you are out there waitin’
I hope you show up soon,
‘Cause my heart needs relaxing not solitude
Gotta lotta love
Gotta lotta love
La La La La La La La La La
Ooh, Ooh
It’s gonna take a lotta love
To change the way things are.
It’s gonna take a lotta love
Or we won’t get too far.
It’s gonna take a lotta love
To change the way things are.
It’s gonna take a lotta love
Or we won’t get too far
Or we won’t get too far
(Repeat to fade)