Linda Ronstadt – Long, Long Time (Remastered)

Long, Long Time - Wikipedia

About the song

Linda Ronstadt and “Long Long Time”: A Ballad of Enduring Love

In the realm of popular music, there are songs that capture the fleeting moments of joy and heartbreak that define the human experience, and then there are songs that transcend the ephemeral, etching themselves into the collective consciousness with their timeless beauty and emotional resonance. Linda Ronstadt’s “Long Long Time” falls into the latter category, a ballad that has captivated listeners for decades with its poignant lyrics and achingly beautiful melody.

Released in 1970 on Ronstadt’s album Silk Purse, “Long Long Time” is a song about unrequited love, a theme that has resonated with countless individuals throughout history. The lyrics, penned by Gary White, paint a vivid picture of a love that has endured the test of time, despite never being fully reciprocated. The narrator reminisces about the tender moments shared with the object of their affection, moments that continue to hold a profound significance despite the unfulfilled longing.

Ronstadt’s delivery of the song is nothing short of masterful. Her voice, imbued with a blend of vulnerability and strength, perfectly conveys the bittersweet emotions of the lyrics. The melody, a slow and gentle ballad, complements Ronstadt’s vocals, creating an atmosphere of quiet introspection and heartfelt yearning.

“Long Long Time” has become a staple in Ronstadt’s repertoire, a song that she has performed countless times over the years. It has also been covered by numerous artists, each bringing their own interpretation to the song. However, Ronstadt’s version remains the definitive, a testament to her artistry and the enduring power of the song itself.

The song’s popularity is undeniable, having charted on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1970 and reaching number one on the Easy Listening chart. But “Long Long Time”‘s significance extends beyond its commercial success. It is a song that has touched the hearts of millions, offering solace and understanding to those who have experienced the pain of unrequited love.

In a world of fleeting trends and disposable pop songs, “Long Long Time” stands as a beacon of enduring artistry. It is a song that speaks to the depths of the human heart, reminding us of the power of love, even when it remains unreturned. Linda Ronstadt’s masterful performance has ensured that “Long Long Time” will continue to touch lives for generations to come.

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Lyrics

“Long Long Time”

 

Love will abide
Take things in stride
Sounds like good advice
But there’s no one at my side

And time washes clean
Love’s wounds unseen
That’s what someone told me
But I don’t know what it means

‘Cause I’ve done everything I know
To try and make you mine
And I think I’m gonna love you
For a long, long time

Caught in my fears
Blinking back the tears
I can’t say you hurt me
When you never let me near

And I never drew
One response from you
All the while you fell
All over girls you never knew

‘Cause I’ve done everything I know
To try and make you mine
And I think it’s going to hurt me
For a long, long time

Wait for the day
You’ll go away
Knowing that you warned me
Of the price I’d have to pay

And life’s full of flaws
Who knows the cause?
Living in the memory
Of a love that never was

‘Cause I’ve done everything I know
To try and change your mind
And I think I’m going to miss you
For a long, long time

‘Cause I’ve done everything I know
To try and make you mine
And I think I’m gonna love you
For a long, long time