About the song
Linda Ronstadt’s rendition of “Just One Look” stands as a testament to her extraordinary ability to reinterpret classic songs with a fresh and captivating touch. Originally written by Doris Troy and Gregory Carroll, “Just One Look” was first recorded by Troy in 1963, becoming a hit and securing a spot in the annals of pop music history. However, it was Ronstadt’s version that brought new life to the song, imbuing it with her distinctive vocal style and emotional depth.
Linda Ronstadt included “Just One Look” on her 1978 album *Living in the USA*, released under Asylum Records. This album, characterized by its eclectic mix of rock, pop, and country influences, showcased Ronstadt’s versatility as an artist. *Living in the USA* was a commercial success, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart and selling over two million copies in the United States. The inclusion of “Just One Look” contributed significantly to the album’s success, further establishing Ronstadt’s reputation for reviving and reimagining classic hits.
When “Just One Look” was released as a single in 1978, it garnered significant attention and achieved considerable chart success. It peaked at No. 44 on the Billboard Hot 100, demonstrating Ronstadt’s continued ability to resonate with a broad audience. Although not her highest-charting single, the song remains a beloved part of her repertoire, celebrated for its catchy melody and Ronstadt’s engaging performance.
Ronstadt’s interpretation of “Just One Look” is characterized by its vibrant and energetic arrangement. The song features a lively blend of guitars, keyboards, and backing vocals, all supporting Ronstadt’s powerful lead vocals. Her delivery captures the playful and heartfelt essence of the lyrics, which tell the story of love at first sight and the overwhelming emotions that accompany it.
The production of “Just One Look” on *Living in the USA* was overseen by Peter Asher, who had a long-standing collaborative relationship with Ronstadt. Asher’s production style, combined with Ronstadt’s vocal prowess, created a sound that was both nostalgic and contemporary, appealing to both older listeners who remembered the original and younger audiences discovering it for the first time.
Linda Ronstadt’s version of “Just One Look” remains a highlight in her extensive discography. Her ability to take a well-known song and infuse it with her unique style has made her one of the most respected and beloved artists of her time. For older, seasoned listeners, her rendition evokes memories of the early days of pop and rock music, while also standing as a testament to the timeless appeal of great songwriting and exceptional vocal talent.
In conclusion, “Just One Look” by Linda Ronstadt is more than just a cover; it’s a celebration of musical heritage and a showcase of Ronstadt’s remarkable talent. Her rendition continues to charm and inspire, proving that great music truly transcends time and generations.
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Lyrics
Just one look
And I fell so ha-a-ard
In love, with you, oh, oh
I found out
How good it fe-e-els
To have your love, oh, oh
Say you will
Will be mi-i-ine
Forever and always, oh, oh
Just one look
And I knew-ew-eww
That you
Were my only one, oh, oh, oh, oh
I thought I was dreaming
But I was wrong, oh yeah, yeah
Ah, but I’m gonna keep on scheming
‘Til I can make you
Make you my own
So, you see
I really ca-a-are
Without you
I’m nothing, oh, oh
Just one look
And I know-ow-oww
I’ll get you someday, oh, oh
Just one look
That’s all it took
Ha, just one look
That’s all it took
Whoa, just one look
That’s all it, whoa, baby (just one look, that’s all it took)
You know I love you baby (just one look, that’s all it took)
I’ll build my world around you (just one look, that’s all it took)
Come on baby (just one look, that’s all it took)