Few performers can captivate an audience like Linda Ronstadt. When it comes to delivering a stirring live performance, her presence on stage was truly unmatched. She consistently gave performances that made people stop, gaze, and pay attention, effortlessly drawing them in with her powerful voice and magnetic energy. Each appearance was memorable because of her incredible talent and ability to connect with her listeners on an emotional level.
An Unusual Voice
Ronstadt’s performance of “Long, Long Time” in the 1972 pilot episode of The Midnight Special was among her most amazing performances. Her voice was as clear, strong, and faultless as a studio recording, and because of its muscular delivery, immaculate pitch, and unadulterated emotion, it was nearly hard to discern if it was live. Without any studio tricks, it’s difficult to get that degree of vocal excellence, but Ronstadt made it seem and sound natural.
Making the Song Come to Life
Ronstadt gave every note her whole heart and soul, which added to the performance’s already amazing quality. Her voice had an eerie melancholy that drew listeners into the tale of longing and heartache. The performance was incredibly compelling because you could hear the passion in every note and feel it in her eyes. She seemed to be singing directly to every member of the crowd during the performance, which had a very intimate feel to it.
An Incredibly Memorable Moment
Everyone who watched was moved by the moment Ronstadt produced that night in 1972. People felt as though they had known her for years as she performed “Long, Long Time.” Her inherent skill and vocal range, along with the song’s touching lyrics made for an amazing encounter. Ronstadt stands out as one of the best vocalists of her generation because of her ability to emotionally engage her listeners.
Watch the video below to witness this amazing performance if you haven’t already. On this episode of The Midnight Special, you’ll hear more of her well-known songs, such as “You’re No Good” and “When Will I Be Loved.”