About the song
When Will I Be Loved by Linda Ronstadt: A Country-Rock Anthem of Unrequited Love
In the realm of country-rock music, few songs have achieved the enduring popularity and heartfelt resonance of Linda Ronstadt’s “When Will I Be Loved.” Released in 1975 as part of her landmark album “Heart Like a Wheel,” this poignant ballad has become an enduring classic, captivating listeners with its raw emotion and relatable themes of unrequited love and longing.
Penned by Phil Everly of the Everly Brothers, “When Will I Be Loved” originally appeared in 1960 as a country-pop tune. However, it was Ronstadt’s interpretation that transformed the song into a country-rock anthem, imbuing it with a depth of emotion and a touch of rock and roll grit that resonated deeply with audiences.
Ronstadt’s powerful vocals, soaring over the gentle strumming of her guitar, convey the heartfelt plea of a lover desperately seeking reciprocation. The lyrics, infused with vulnerability and yearning, paint a vivid picture of unrequited love’s torment, striking a chord with anyone who has ever experienced the ache of unreturned affection.
The song’s success was undeniable, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and cementing Ronstadt’s status as a country-rock icon. “When Will I Be Loved” has since been covered by numerous artists across genres, each bringing their own interpretation to the timeless ballad.
Beyond its commercial success, “When Will I Be Loved” holds a significant place in the history of country-rock music. It is considered a quintessential example of the genre, showcasing the blend of country twang, rock and roll energy, and heartfelt emotion that defined the era. Ronstadt’s rendition remains the definitive version, a testament to her vocal prowess and ability to connect with listeners on an emotional level.
“When Will I Be Loved” endures as a timeless classic, its message of unrequited love resonating with generations of listeners. It is a song that captures the universality of human emotion, the longing for connection and the heartache of unfulfilled desires. Ronstadt’s powerful vocals and the song’s poignant lyrics have cemented its place in the annals of music history, ensuring that “When Will I Be Loved” will continue to touch hearts for years to come.
**Additional details:**
* **Composers:** Phil Everly
* **Album:** Heart Like a Wheel (1975)
* **Billboard Hot 100 chart position:** Number 2
* **Notable covers:** The Carpenters (1976), Vince Gill (1994), Maroon 5 (2004)