About the song
Linda Ronstadt’s velvety voice and emotive delivery have captivated audiences for generations. Among her many hits, “Long Long Time” stands as a timeless testament to the complexities of love and longing. Released in 1970 as part of her album Silk Purse, this poignant ballad has resonated with listeners of all ages for its heartfelt lyrics and haunting melody.
Written by Gary White, “Long Long Time” is a poignant exploration of unrequited love. The song paints a vivid picture of a person deeply devoted to someone who doesn’t reciprocate their feelings. Ronstadt’s vocals convey a sense of vulnerability and resignation, making the listener empathize with the protagonist’s emotional turmoil.
The lyrics, while simple, are incredibly evocative. Phrases like “love will abide” and “time washes clean love’s wounds unseen” suggest a hopeful outlook on the healing power of time. Yet, the underlying sadness and longing are palpable. The repeated refrain of “I think I’m gonna love you for a long long time” is both heartbreaking and beautiful, capturing the enduring nature of love, even when it is not returned.
Musically, “Long Long Time” is a masterclass in understated elegance. The arrangement is simple yet effective, allowing Ronstadt’s vocals to take center stage. The gentle acoustic guitar strumming and subtle instrumentation create a warm and intimate atmosphere, perfectly complementing the song’s emotional depth.
Linda Ronstadt’s interpretation of “Long Long Time” is nothing short of masterful. Her ability to convey a wide range of emotions, from hope to despair, within a single song is a testament to her artistry. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its universal themes and Ronstadt’s timeless vocal performance.
If you’re looking for a song that will tug at your heartstrings and stay with you long after the final note, “Long Long Time” is a must-listen. Ronstadt’s heartfelt rendition of this classic ballad is a reminder that the power of music can transcend time and connect us on a deeply emotional level.
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Lyrics
Love will abide
Take things in stride
Sounds like good advice
But there’s no one at my side
And time washes clean love’s wounds unseen
That’s what someone told me
But I don’t know what it means
‘Cause I’ve done everything I know
To try and make you mine
And I think I’m gonna love you
For a long long time
Caught in my fears
Blinking back the tears
I can’t say you hurt me
When you never let me near
And I never drew one response from you
All the while you fell all over girls you never knew
‘Cause I’ve done everything I know
To try and make you mine
And I think it’s gonna hurt me
For a long long time
Wait for the day you’ll go away
Knowing that you warned me
Of the price I’d have to pay
And life’s full of flaws
Who knows the cause?
Living in the memory of a love that never was
‘Cause I’ve done everything I know
To try and change your mind
And I think I’m gonna miss you
For a long long time
‘Cause I’ve done everything I know
To try and make you mine
And I think I’m gonna love you
For a long long time