Linda Ronstadt’s Missed Opportunity: The Warren Zevon Song That Got Away
Linda Ronstadt, the legendary singer known for her powerful vocals and hit songs like “You’re No Good” and “Blue Bayou,” has had a storied career spanning decades. However, even with her impressive discography, Ronstadt has expressed regret over one song that got away – Warren Zevon’s “Accidentally Like a Martyr.”
In various interviews, Ronstadt has mentioned that she wishes she had recorded “Accidentally Like a Martyr,” a hauntingly beautiful song from Zevon’s 1978 album “Excitable Boy.” The song’s poignant lyrics, which explore themes of romantic loss and longing, resonate deeply with Ronstadt, and she feels it would have been a perfect fit for her unique vocal style.
Ronstadt’s connection to Zevon’s music is well-documented. She has recorded several of his songs, including “Poor Poor Pitiful Me” and “Carmelita,” both of which became hits for her. However, “Accidentally Like a Martyr” remains the one that got away, and Ronstadt has often spoken about the missed opportunity.
“Accidentally Like a Martyr” is a masterclass in songwriting, with Zevon’s signature dark humor and poignant storytelling on full display. The song’s themes of heartache and loss would have been a natural fit for Ronstadt’s emotive vocals, and it’s easy to imagine her bringing the song to life with her powerful delivery.
Despite the missed opportunity, Ronstadt’s admiration for Zevon’s music has endured. She has continued to cover his songs and has spoken highly of his talent as a songwriter. For fans of both Ronstadt and Zevon, the idea of what could have been is tantalizing, but the legacy of their shared music remains a testament to the power of their artistry.
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