About the song
“When Will I Be Loved.” While originally a classic penned and performed by The Everly Brothers, Ronstadt’s electrifying 1975 rendition truly made it her own, cementing its place as an iconic staple of her impressive catalog.
Released as a single from her incredibly successful album Prisoner in Disguise, “When Will I Be Loved” quickly soared to the top of the charts, becoming a significant crossover hit that showcased Ronstadt’s undeniable appeal to both rock and country audiences. The song itself poses a timeless question that resonates with anyone who has navigated the often-treacherous waters of romance: after a series of heartbreaks and disappointments, when will true, reciprocal love finally arrive? “I’ve been made blue, I’ve been lied to / When will I be loved?” she sings, a plea that’s both wistful and resilient. It speaks to that universal yearning for a steady, dependable affection, a sentiment deeply understood by those of us who have lived long enough to experience the full spectrum of love’s triumphs and tribulations.
What makes Linda Ronstadt’s version of “When Will I Be Loved” so compelling is her absolute command of the material. Her vocal performance here is pure power and conviction, delivered with that crystal-clear precision and emotional honesty that were her trademarks. She doesn’t just ask the question; she demands an answer, infusing the lyrics with a driving optimism that belies the underlying weariness. There’s a subtle defiance in her voice, a sense that despite past hurts, she’s not giving up on love. This blend of strength and vulnerability is what always made Ronstadt’s interpretations so captivating, turning a simple query into a rallying cry for persistent hope.
Musically, the song is a brilliant example of the country-rock sound that Ronstadt perfected. It’s a vibrant, upbeat track driven by a tight rhythm section, prominent guitar riffs, and a general sense of infectious energy. The arrangement is clean and punchy, allowing the melody to shine and making it impossible not to tap your foot along. It’s a concise, perfectly crafted pop-rock gem that perfectly showcases her ability to take a classic, infuse it with her formidable talent, and send it soaring. “When Will I Be Loved” remains a testament to Linda Ronstadt’s enduring legacy as an artist who could take any song, from any genre, and make it uniquely, powerfully her own. It’s a timeless reminder that even in the face of romantic setbacks, the hope for true love persists.
Video
Lyrics
I’ve been cheated
Been mistreated
When will I be loved?
I’ve been put down
I’ve been pushed ’round
When will I be loved?
When I find a new man
That I want for mine
He always breaks my heart in two
It happens every time
I’ve been made blue
I’ve been lied to
When will I be loved?
When I find a new man
That I want for mine
He always breaks my heart in two
It happens every time
Oh, I’ve been cheated
Been mistreated
When will I be loved?
When will I be loved?
Tell me, when will I be loved?
