At 78, Linda Ronstadt reflects on her legendary career and reveals a surprising truth: not all her encounters in the music industry were harmonious. Behind the glitz and glamour, she has a list of musicians whose actions left her feeling betrayed, and their stories reveal the darker side of rock and roll.
One of the most notable names on her list is Don Henley of the Eagles. In 1971, Ronstadt took a chance on Henley and his bandmate Glenn Frey, hiring them as her backing musicians. This decision would help launch the Eagles into superstardom, but the relationship soured as fame changed Henley. He reportedly became dismissive of Ronstadt’s musical style, even suggesting in an interview that her work was too polished. For Ronstadt, who had nurtured their early sound, this comment felt like a betrayal. Things escalated when she learned that Henley had been using her name to gain access to venues without her consent. After that revelation, she quietly cut ties, a move that spoke volumes about her professionalism and self-respect.
Another musician who left a mark on Ronstadt was Jim Morrison of The Doors. Their paths crossed in 1968 when Morrison’s unpredictable antics took center stage. During one performance, he unexpectedly pulled Ronstadt toward him, attempting to kiss her in front of a crowd. The incident not only embarrassed her but also highlighted Morrison’s reckless behavior. Later, he made disparaging remarks about her talent, calling her “sweet but spineless.” Although Ronstadt chose to remain composed, the experience shaped her approach to future collaborations, making her more discerning about the artists she worked with.
Neil Young also features in Ronstadt’s narrative. At a benefit concert in 1976, his criticism of her polished sound reportedly stung. Young, known for his raw and urgent style, dismissed her contributions, leaving Ronstadt feeling disrespected. Though they both aimed to support a cause, their artistic differences led her to withdraw from future projects with him, emphasizing her commitment to authenticity.
Frank Zappa’s studio session with Ronstadt in 1974 was another painful chapter. Zappa’s perfectionism and dismissive attitude toward her creative input made the collaboration uncomfortable. Feeling belittled, Ronstadt walked out, a decision that ultimately empowered her to take control of her artistic direction in the years that followed.
David Crosby’s public critique of Ronstadt’s talent in 1975 was a betrayal that cut deep. After a disagreement during a rehearsal, he dismissed her as a product of studio engineering in a Rolling Stone interview. Stunned by his remarks, Ronstadt quietly distanced herself from him, illustrating her resolve to protect her reputation and integrity.
Elvis Costello’s jab at Ronstadt during a festival in 1979, where he dubbed her music “background music for brunch,” was another blow. When she confronted him, he reportedly doubled down on his insult. This incident prompted Ronstadt to reevaluate her collaborations, leading her to prioritize her peace over confrontational partnerships.
Finally, a collaboration with Paul Simon in 1982 turned sour due to his controlling nature. As tensions rose in the studio, Ronstadt realized that mutual respect was lacking, leading her to walk away from the project entirely. This experience solidified her understanding of her worth as an artist and her right to work with those who valued her contributions.
Linda Ronstadt’s journey through the music industry is a testament to her resilience and artistry. Each encounter, while painful, shaped her into the icon she is today. As she continues to reflect on her storied career, one question lingers: how do these experiences influence the next generation of artists navigating the complex world of music?
