About the song
Linda Ronstadt’s “You’re No Good”: A Timeless Classic
Have you ever heard a song that just gets you? A song that seems to speak directly to your heart and soul? Linda Ronstadt’s “You’re No Good” is one of those songs. Released in the late 1970s, this track has become a timeless classic, beloved by generations of music fans.
What makes this song so special? Well, for starters, it’s a fantastic cover of a Memphis soul gem originally performed by the Memphis Jug Band. Ronstadt, with her powerful and distinctive vocals, breathed new life into the song, giving it a rock and roll edge that perfectly suited her style. The lyrics are simple yet poignant, painting a picture of a relationship gone sour. The protagonist is clearly fed up with her partner’s bad behavior, and she’s ready to move on.
One of the things that I love most about “You’re No Good” is its raw emotion. Ronstadt’s voice conveys a sense of both pain and defiance. You can hear the heartbreak in her tone, but you can also hear her determination to break free from a toxic relationship. This emotional depth is what has made the song so relatable to listeners for decades.
The music itself is equally compelling. The driving rhythm and bluesy guitar riffs create a powerful and energetic atmosphere. The backing vocals add a touch of sweetness, contrasting with the bitterness of the lyrics. And let’s not forget the iconic saxophone solo, which is both soulful and sassy.
“You’re No Good” is a perfect example of how a great cover can breathe new life into a classic song. Ronstadt’s interpretation is both faithful to the original and uniquely her own. It’s a song that has stood the test of time, and it continues to resonate with audiences today.
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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