Linda Ronstadt – The Long Way Around

About the song

Linda Ronstadt’s “The Long Way Around”: A Journey of Regret and Redemption

Linda Ronstadt’s 1969 song, “The Long Way Around,” takes listeners on a journey of introspection and emotional honesty. Written by Ken Edwards, a former bandmate and frequent collaborator, the song became a signature tune for Ronstadt, showcasing her powerful vocals and ability to connect with listeners through relatable themes.

A Look Back at Missed Opportunities:

The lyrics reveal a narrator grappling with regret for past mistakes. Lines like “It’s a cinch that I’ve been wrong / And it’s clear it’s not been long / Since I was hard on you” establish a sense of remorse for harsh words or actions.

A Newfound Appreciation:

Despite the past, the narrator expresses a newfound appreciation for the person they wronged. Lines like “But now a time has come / When yesterday don’t mean nothin’ / Now I’m in love with you” suggest a shift in perspective and a desire to rekindle the connection.

Simple Yet Powerful Melody:

The song features a simple yet powerful melody built around acoustic guitar. This sparse arrangement allows Ronstadt’s honest and expressive vocals to take center stage, conveying the full weight of the emotions explored in the lyrics.

Open to Interpretation:

“The Long Way Around” leaves the ending ambiguous. Does the narrator succeed in rekindling the lost love? This uncertainty invites listeners to contemplate the song’s message and draw their own conclusions.

A Classic of Folk Rock:

“The Long Way Around” became a classic of the folk rock genre. It resonated with fans who appreciated Ronstadt’s forthright approach to songwriting and her ability to capture complex emotions in relatable lyrics. The song remains a staple on her setlists and a testament to her enduring legacy.

Video

Lyrics

“The Long Way Around”

 

It’s a cinch that I’ve been wrong
And it’s clear it’s not been long
Since I was hard on you
But now a time has come
When yesterday don’t mean nothin’
Now I’m in love with you
And you’ve taken me the long way around

Take a look how young we are
A month has changed the moon and the stars
Changing the things we do
You’ve been lookin’ for something strong
When other things don’t mean nothin’
Now I’m in love with you
And you’ve taken me the long way around

Well I can’t see beyond the doubt that’s in your eye
It’s on the outskirts of my fading alibi

It’s a cinch that I’ve been wrong
And it’s clear it’s not been long
Since I was hard on you
But now a time has come
When yesterday don’t mean nothin’
Now I’m in love with you
And you’ve taken me the long way around
Now I’m in love with you
And you’ve taken me the long way around