About the song
For those of us who came of age during the seismic shifts of the 1960s, or even those who simply appreciate the enduring power of a strong, independent voice, few artists command as much respect and admiration as Linda Ronstadt. She possesses a voice that could traverse genres with effortless grace, from country to rock, pop to traditional Mexican mariachi, always infusing her interpretations with an unparalleled blend of clarity, passion, and a touch of vulnerability. She wasn’t just a singer; she was an interpreter, a storyteller, and a trailblazer for female artists in a male-dominated industry.
It’s fitting then that one of her earliest and most iconic hits, a song that truly put her on the map, was “Different Drum”. Released in 1967 with her band The Stone Poneys, this track became an anthem for a generation, even if its deeper implications weren’t fully recognized at the time. Written by Michael Nesmith (who would soon achieve fame with The Monkees), the song is a beautifully nuanced exploration of independence and the refusal to be tied down. It’s a sentiment that resonates deeply with anyone who has ever felt the pull of wanderlust or the need to forge their own path, regardless of societal expectations or the desires of a well-meaning partner.
What makes “Different Drum” so enduring, particularly for a mature audience, is its honest portrayal of a woman confidently asserting her autonomy. In an era where female vocalists were often relegated to songs of longing and romantic devotion, Ronstadt’s delivery here is refreshingly assertive. She sings of “marching to the beat of a different drum,” not with malice or rejection, but with a gentle yet firm conviction. The lyrics speak of a character who values freedom over conventional commitment, suggesting that both parties would be better off if they acknowledged their differing desires rather than forcing a fit. It’s a testament to self-awareness and respect, a message that gains even more weight with the passage of time and the accumulation of life’s experiences. The harpsichord, the subtle country-rock arrangement, and above all, Ronstadt’s pure, soaring vocal, all conspire to create a track that is both historically significant and timeless in its appeal, reminding us that sometimes, the bravest thing you can do is simply be true to yourself.
Video
Lyrics
You and I travel to the beat of a different drum
Oh, can’t you tell by the way I run
Every time you make eyes at me? Whoa
You cry and moan and say it will work out
But honey child I’ve got my doubts
You can’t see the forest for the trees
So, don’t get me wrong, it’s not that I knock it
It’s just that I am not in the market
For a boy who wants to love only me
Yes, and I ain’t sayin’ you ain’t pretty
All I’m saying’s I’m not ready for any person
Place or thing to try and pull the reins in on me, so
Goodbye, I’ll be leavin’
I see no sense in this cryin’ and grievin’
We’ll both live a lot longer if you live without me
So, don’t get me wrong, it’s not that I knock it
It’s just that I am not in the market
For a boy who wants to love only me
Yes, and I ain’t sayin’ you ain’t pretty
All I’m saying’s I’m not ready for any person
Place or thing to try and pull the reins in on me, so
Goodbye, I’ll be leavin’
I see no sense in this cryin’ and grievin’
We’ll both live a lot longer if you live without me
