About the song
Linda Ronstadt’s journey with the song “You’re No Good” began in early 1973 when her band member Kenny Edwards suggested she perform it to close her live shows. The song quickly became a staple in her setlist, even as she opened for Neil Young. One of her earliest televised performances of “You’re No Good” was on an episode of The Midnight Special, which aired on December 21, 1973.
Ronstadt’s album *Heart Like a Wheel*, produced by Peter Asher, was recorded in the summer of 1974 at the Sound Factory. Interestingly, “You’re No Good” was a last-minute addition to the album. While Ronstadt suggested the song, Asher, who was already a fan of the Swinging Blue Jeans’ version, found it to be a serendipitous choice. The initial backing track was recorded on July 1, 1974, with Bob Warford noting that they attempted an R&B version similar to their live performances. However, Ronstadt was not satisfied with this arrangement, feeling that it did not suit her vocal style.
The final recording of “You’re No Good” took place on July 5, 1974. Ed Black, the guitarist, initiated a rhythm riff on his Les Paul, which was echoed by Kenny Edwards on bass. Andrew Gold contributed a sparse drum track, providing a foundation for Ronstadt’s vocals. After several takes, the team selected one they liked, and Gold, along with Asher, began layering guitar, piano, and percussion tracks. A memorable incident occurred during the playback when engineer Val Garay accidentally erased Gold’s guitar solo, necessitating its reconstruction—a detail that is sometimes disputed by Asher and Garay.
In late August 1974, a string arrangement by Gregory Rose was added to the track at AIR Studios. As detailed in a Classic Tracks article by Matt Hurwitz, the final mix featured a strong, sustained note, expertly executed by Garay with a slow fader ride.
Capitol Records faced a dilemma over which song to release as the lead single from *Heart Like a Wheel*, eventually deciding on “You’re No Good” a week after the album’s release. This decision proved fortuitous, as Linda Ronstadt’s rendition of “You’re No Good” became the song’s most successful cover. It reached number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 on February 15, 1975, marking Ronstadt’s only chart-topping single. Internationally, the song also performed well, reaching number 15 in Australia, number 17 in the Netherlands, and number 24 in New Zealand. The B-side, “I Can’t Help It (If I’m Still in Love with You),” originally by Hank Williams, also charted and became a number 2 hit on the country charts.
The success of “You’re No Good” was instrumental in propelling the *Heart Like a Wheel* album to major success. Released in late 1974, the album eventually went double platinum and topped the Billboard album chart. It was also nominated for a Grammy Award for Album of the Year. This triumph set a precedent for Ronstadt’s subsequent singles, which predominantly featured remakes of classic rock and roll songs over the next five years.
“You’re No Good” stands as a testament to Linda Ronstadt’s vocal prowess and her ability to transform a song into a timeless hit. Her interpretation of the track continues to resonate with audiences, showcasing her unique talent and solidifying her place in music history.
Video
Lyrics
Feelin’ better now that we’re through
Feelin’ better, ’cause I’m over you
I learned my lesson, it left a scar
Now I see how you really are
You’re no good
You’re no good
You’re no good
Baby, you’re no good
I’m gonna say it again
You’re no good
You’re no good
You’re no good
Baby, you’re no good
I broke a heart that’s gentle and true
Well, I broke a heart over someone like you
I’ll beg his forgiveness on bended knee
I wouldn’t blame him if he said to me
You’re no good
You’re no good
You’re no good
Baby, you’re no good
I’m gonna say it again
You’re no good
You’re no good
You’re no good
Baby, you’re no good
I’m tellin’ you now, baby
And I’m going my way
Forget about you, baby
‘Cause I’m leavin’ to stay
You’re no good
You’re no good
You’re no good
Baby, you’re no good
I’m gonna say it again
You’re no good
You’re no good
You’re no good
Baby, you’re no good
Oh, oh, no
You’re no good
You’re no good
You’re no good
Baby, you’re no good
You’re no good
You’re no good
You’re no good
You’re no good
You’re no good
You’re no good, oh
You’re no good
You’re no good
You’re no good
You’re no good
You’re no good, oh
You’re no good
You’re no good
You’re no good
You’re no good
You’re no good
You’re no good, whoa
You’re no good
You’re no good
You’re no good
Maybe you’re good