About the song
“Lose Again” is a poignant song written by Karla Bonoff and brought to life by the incomparable Linda Ronstadt. This track was featured on Ronstadt’s 1976 album “Hasten Down the Wind” and later released as the third single from the album in May 1977. Despite its relatively modest chart performance, “Lose Again” is a testament to Ronstadt’s ability to interpret and deliver emotionally resonant music, earning critical acclaim along the way.
Linda Ronstadt’s career had already been marked by significant success before “Lose Again.” Her 1974 album “Heart Like a Wheel” had catapulted her to commercial fame with hit singles like “You’re No Good” and “When Will I Be Loved.” She continued this winning formula with subsequent albums, “Prisoner in Disguise” (1975) and “Hasten Down the Wind” (1976). The latter album featured “Lose Again,” one of several tracks penned by the then-emerging songwriter Karla Bonoff.
Karla Bonoff was an up-and-coming talent in the music industry when “Lose Again” was recorded. She had not yet achieved widespread recognition, but her songwriting caught the attention of Ronstadt through a demo provided by Kenny Edwards, a member of Ronstadt’s band and Bonoff’s boyfriend at the time. Impressed by Bonoff’s work, Ronstadt decided to include “Lose Again” on her album. Bonoff would go on to contribute more songs to “Hasten Down the Wind,” showcasing her songwriting prowess.
Recorded in March 1976 at The Sound Factory in Hollywood, California, “Lose Again” was produced by Peter Asher, a frequent collaborator of Ronstadt. The song’s sensitive arrangement and Ronstadt’s heartfelt delivery garnered praise from critics. Cashbox, a notable music publication, highlighted the song as one of the best tracks on “Hasten Down the Wind,” commending Ronstadt’s ability to convey deep emotion without resorting to overpowering vocal techniques.
When released as a single, “Lose Again” debuted on the US Billboard Hot 100 in June 1977 and remained on the chart for five weeks, peaking at number 76. Although it was one of Ronstadt’s lower-charting singles, it still resonated with her audience. Additionally, the song reached number 43 on the US Billboard Adult Contemporary chart and number 42 on Canada’s RPM Adult Contemporary chart.
“Lose Again” stands as a beautiful example of Linda Ronstadt’s artistry and her knack for interpreting the works of talented songwriters like Karla Bonoff. The song’s delicate arrangement, combined with Ronstadt’s expressive vocal performance, ensures its place as a cherished piece in her extensive catalog. Despite its modest chart success, “Lose Again” remains a poignant reminder of the depth and sensitivity that Ronstadt brought to her music, making it a timeless favorite among her fans.
Video
Lyrics
Save me
Free me
From my heart this time
Well the train’s gone
Down the track and I’m
I’m left behind
But nothing can save me from this ball and chain
I’ve made up my mind I would leave today
But you’re keeping me going I know it’s insane
‘Cause I’ll love you and lose again
Well the heart calls
And the mind obeys
Oh it knows better than me baby
And if I hold on for one more day
Oh maybe maybe he’ll be true
But nothing can save me from this ball and chain
I’ve made up my mind I would leave today
But you’re keeping me going I know it’s insane
‘Cause I’ll love you and lose again
Nothing can save me from this ball and chain
I’ve made up my mind I would leave today
But you’re keeping me going I know it’s insane
‘Cause I’ll love you and lose again
Woah I’ll love you and lose again