Linda Ronstadt – Tumbling Dice

About the song

Linda Ronstadt – Tumbling Dice: A Journey Through Rolling Stones’ Rock and Roll Classic

Linda Ronstadt, the iconic singer known for her powerful vocals and diverse musical style, delivered a captivating rendition of the Rolling Stones’ rock and roll classic “Tumbling Dice” in 1977. This captivating cover, featured on her album “Simple Dreams,” showcased Ronstadt’s ability to seamlessly blend genres, infusing the song with her signature brand of country-rock flair.

A Raucous Rock and Roll Anthem

The original “Tumbling Dice,” penned by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, is a bluesy, boogie-woogie-infused rock and roll anthem that has become a staple in the Rolling Stones’ repertoire. The song’s infectious rhythm and rebellious lyrics about a gambling man who can’t stay faithful to any woman have made it a timeless classic.

Ronstadt’s Country-Rock Twist

In Ronstadt’s hands, “Tumbling Dice” takes on a new dimension. Her powerful vocals and the country-infused instrumentation, featuring prominent pedal steel guitar and acoustic guitar, transform the song into a country-rock masterpiece. The tempo is slightly slower than the original, allowing Ronstadt to delve into the emotional depths of the lyrics.

A Tale of Love and Loss

Ronstadt’s interpretation of “Tumbling Dice” is not just about a gambling man; it’s about the complexities of love and loss. Her voice conveys the pain and longing of a woman who has been betrayed by her lover. The lyrics, “I’ve been around the world / And I’ve been down so long / You know I’ve never had a home / I’ve never had a family,” take on a deeper meaning in Ronstadt’s delivery, painting a picture of a woman yearning for connection and stability.

A Live Performance to Remember

Ronstadt’s performance of “Tumbling Dice” was not limited to the studio. She brought the song to life on stage, captivating audiences with her energetic delivery and soulful vocals. One particularly memorable performance took place at the Atlanta Fox Theatre in 1977, where Ronstadt’s rendition of the song was met with thunderous applause.

A Legacy of Musical Excellence

Linda Ronstadt’s cover of “Tumbling Dice” stands as a testament to her versatility and her ability to interpret classic rock songs in her own unique style. Her version of the song has become a beloved favorite among fans of both Ronstadt and the Rolling Stones, proving that great music can transcend genres and generations.

Video

Lyrics

“Tumbling Dice”

 

People try to rape me
Always think I’m crazy
Make me burn the candle right down
Baby I can’t stay
I don’t need your jewels in my frownNow all you women are low-down gamblers
Cheating like I don’t know how
Baby I go crazy
There’s fever in the funkhouse now

Well this low-down bitching
Got my poor feet a-itching
Can’t you see the deuce is still wild
Baby get it straight
You got to roll me
And call me the tumbling dice

Always in a hurry
Never stop to worry
Can’t see the time passing by
Honey got no money
I’m sixes and sevens and nines

Well hey now baby I’m the rank outsider
You can be my partner in crime
Baby get it straight
You got to roll me
Call me the tumbling dice

I said my my my
I’m the lone crapshooter
Playing the field every night
Baby get it straight
You got to roll me
Call me the tumbling dice

You got to roll me
Babe you got to roll me
Babe you got to roll me
Oh oh oh you got to roll me
Woo hoo hoo you got to roll me
Woah babe you got to roll me
Baby babe you got to roll me