History of Linda Ronstadt in Timeline
Linda Ronstadt is an American singer known for her wide-ranging musical styles. Her repertoire includes rock, country, light opera, traditional pop, and Latin music.
1903: Federico Ronstadt's Contribution to Tucson's Transportation
Around 1903-1904, Federico José María Ronstadt, Linda Ronstadt's grandfather, made significant contributions to Tucson's transportation system by providing six mule-drawn streetcars.
1911: Birth of Gilbert Ronstadt
Gilbert Ronstadt, Linda Ronstadt's father, was born in 1911.
1914: Birth of Ruth Mary Copeman Ronstadt
Ruth Mary Copeman Ronstadt, Linda Ronstadt's mother, was born in 1914.
January 1946: Publication of Canciones de mi Padre by Luisa Espinel
In January 1946, the University of Arizona published "Canciones de mi Padre," a booklet of traditional Mexican folk songs by Luisa Espinel, Ronstadt's aunt.
July 15, 1946: Birth of Linda Ronstadt
On July 15, 1946, Linda Maria Ronstadt was born in Tucson, Arizona. She would become a celebrated American singer known for her diverse musical range.
1953: The Ronstadt Family in Family Circle Magazine
The Ronstadt family, including a young Linda Ronstadt, was featured in Family Circle magazine in 1953.
1964: Move to Los Angeles
At the age of 18, Linda Ronstadt made a pivotal decision to move to Los Angeles in 1964 to pursue her musical aspirations.
1964: Linda Ronstadt Moves to Los Angeles to Pursue Music
In 1964, Linda Ronstadt made a pivotal decision: she moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in music, joining forces with Bobby Kimmel to form a band.
1965: Release of "I Knew You When"
Ronstadt's version of the 1965 Billy Joe Royal hit, "I Knew You When," was included on her Get Closer album.
1966: The Stone Poneys Sign with Capitol Records
The year 1966 marked a significant step in Ronstadt's career when the Stone Poneys, the band she formed with Bobby Kimmel and Kenny Edwards, secured a record deal with Capitol Records.
1967: The Stone Poneys Release Debut Album
The Stone Poneys, featuring Linda Ronstadt, released their debut album in 1967, embarking on their recording journey.
1968: Ronstadt's Early Foray into Ranchera Music
As early as 1968, Linda Ronstadt began incorporating elements of ranchera music, which she described as "Mexican bluegrass," into her musical style, showcasing her diverse musical influences.
1969: Ronstadt's Challenges as a Woman in Rock Music
In 1969, Linda Ronstadt shed light on the difficulties she encountered as a woman navigating the male-dominated world of rock music, particularly the challenges in forming and maintaining a backing band.
1969: Ronstadt Releases Debut Solo Album
While still signed to Capitol Records, Linda Ronstadt ventured into her solo career in 1969, releasing her debut solo album, "Hand Sown ... Home Grown."
1969: Release of "Hand Sown ... Home Grown"
In 1969, Linda Ronstadt released her album "Hand Sown ... Home Grown," often cited as the first alternative country record by a female artist.
March 1970: "Silk Purse" Released, Ronstadt's Second Solo Album
March 1970 saw the release of "Silk Purse," marking Linda Ronstadt's second solo album, a significant milestone in her burgeoning career.
1970: Ronstadt Faces Criticism for Genre-Bending Style
Despite her growing popularity, Linda Ronstadt faced criticism in 1970 from music purists who took issue with her genre-blending approach to music, demonstrating the challenges of defying musical boundaries.
1971: Collaboration with Future Eagles Members and Move to Asylum Records
In 1971, Ronstadt's musical journey took an interesting turn as she collaborated with musicians who would later form the Eagles, including Don Henley, Glenn Frey, Bernie Leadon, and Randy Meisner, during this period, she also initiated discussions with David Geffen about transitioning to Asylum Records.
1972: Commercial Success Streak
Prior to the release of "Winter Light" in 1993, Linda Ronstadt had enjoyed a long period of commercial success, with no significant setbacks since 1972.
1973: Ronstadt Starts Work on Fourth Solo Album, "Don't Cry Now"
The year 1973 marked the beginning of Ronstadt's work on her fourth solo album, "Don't Cry Now," a pivotal project that saw her collaborating with producers like John Boylan and J.D. Souther.
1974: Ronstadt Addresses Exploitation in the Music Industry
Speaking to Peter Knobler in Crawdaddy magazine in 1974, Ronstadt discussed the exploitative nature of the music industry and the challenges faced by artists.
1974: Ronstadt's Musical Preferences and Artistic Goals
The 1974 book "Rock 'N' Roll Woman" by Katherine Orloff delves into Linda Ronstadt's musical tastes, noting her penchant for rhythm and blues, and her desire to infuse soulfulness into her unique blend of country and rock music.
1974: Ronstadt Tours with Neil Young, Meets Emmylou Harris, and Achieves Breakthrough Success
Linda Ronstadt's career reached new heights in 1974 when she opened for Neil Young's "Time Fades Away" tour, leading to a significant increase in her fan base. It was during this time that she crossed paths with Emmylou Harris, marking the beginning of a long-lasting friendship and musical partnership. The album "Don't Cry Now" also gained considerable traction, solidifying her presence in the music scene.
1974: Crawdaddy Magazine Interview
In a 1974 interview with Crawdaddy magazine, Linda Ronstadt shared her perspective on the challenges of finding a compatible partner.
1974: Release of Heart Like a Wheel
In 1974, Linda Ronstadt released her album 'Heart Like a Wheel,' which received critical acclaim and was later included in Rolling Stone's '500 Greatest Albums of All Time.'
March 1975: Rolling Stone Cover Feature
In March 1975, Rolling Stone magazine featured Linda Ronstadt on its cover, marking the first of six covers she would grace, all shot by photographer Annie Leibovitz. The issue included a comprehensive article by Ben Fong-Torres that delved into Ronstadt's challenging journey in the rock n roll industry, her personal life, and the experiences of being a woman navigating a male-dominated touring environment.
September 1975: Release of "Prisoner in Disguise" Album
In September 1975, Ronstadt released her album "Prisoner in Disguise," which quickly gained popularity and reached the Top Five on the Billboard Album Chart, selling over a million copies. This success marked her second consecutive platinum album, a significant feat in a single year. Notably, Ronstadt would become the first female artist to achieve three consecutive platinum albums and ultimately garner eight in a row, followed by another six between 1983 and 1990.
1975: Beginning of consistent platinum streak
Get Closer remained her only album between 1975 and 1990 not to be certified platinum.
1975: Ronstadt Tours with Musical Icons
Linda Ronstadt shared the stage with renowned artists like Jackson Browne, the Eagles, and Toots and the Maytals in 1975, showcasing her versatility as a performer.
1975: Ronstadt's Breakthrough Year
The year 1975 was a pivotal one for Linda Ronstadt, marking her mainstream breakthrough in the music industry at the age of 29.
1976: Release of Greatest Hits album
Ronstadt released her Greatest Hits album in 1976.
1976: Release of Greatest Hits Compilation
Linda Ronstadt's 'Greatest Hits' compilation album was released in 1976. It went on to achieve remarkable success, becoming her highest-selling album.
1976: Ronstadt Records Buddy Holly Cover
Linda Ronstadt recorded her version of Buddy Holly's "That'll Be The Day" in 1976.
1976: Ronstadt Discusses the Loneliness of Touring
In a 1976 interview with Rolling Stone, Linda Ronstadt opened up about the isolating experience of life on the road as a musician.
1976: Second Rolling Stone Cover Feature
In 1976, Ronstadt was featured on the cover of Rolling Stone for the second time.
1976: Release of "Hasten Down the Wind" and Grammy Win
In 1976, Ronstadt reached new heights in her career with her album "Hasten Down the Wind," which climbed to the Top 3 on Billboard's Album Chart and earned her the second Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance. The album, her third in a row to achieve platinum status, presented a captivating image of Ronstadt and emphasized her songwriting talents, featuring two of her original compositions: "Try Me Again" (co-written with Andrew Gold) and "Lo Siento Mi Vida."
1976: Collaboration with Gilbert Ronstadt and Release of "Lo siento mi vida"
In 1976, Linda Ronstadt collaborated with her father, Gilbert Ronstadt, to write and compose the traditional Mexican folk ballad "Lo siento mi vida". The song was included on her album "Hasten Down the Wind".
1977: Release of Simple Dreams
1977 saw the release of Linda Ronstadt's album 'Simple Dreams,' which would go on to become one of her biggest-selling studio albums.
1977: Release of "Simple Dreams" and Critical Acclaim
In 1977, Linda Ronstadt released her album "Simple Dreams," which achieved remarkable success, surpassing even her previous album, "Heart Like a Wheel." After holding the second position on the Billboard 200 chart for nine consecutive weeks behind Fleetwood Mac's "Rumors," "Simple Dreams" rose to claim the number one spot for five weeks straight. The album was a phenomenal hit, selling over 3.5 million copies in the U.S. alone within a year, a record-breaking achievement for a female artist. "Simple Dreams" generated a string of popular singles across various music charts, including the RIAA platinum-certified single "Blue Bayou"—a country-rock rendition of a Roy Orbison classic. Other hit singles included "It's So Easy" (originally sung by Buddy Holly), a cover of The Rolling Stones' "Tumbling Dice," and "Poor Poor Pitiful Me," a song penned by then-emerging songwriter Warren Zevon. The album received several Grammy Award nominations, including nominations for Record of the Year and Best Pop Vocal Performance/Female for "Blue Bayou." Additionally, the album's art director, Kosh, won a Grammy Award for Best Album Cover, marking the first of three Grammy Awards he would receive for designing Ronstadt's album covers. Furthermore, in late 1977, Ronstadt made history by becoming the first female recording artist to simultaneously have two songs in the top ten of the U.S. Billboard Hot 100. "Blue Bayou" secured the No. 3 spot, while "It's So Easy" reached No. 5.
1977: "Torchy Rock" Time Magazine Cover
In 1977, Linda Ronstadt's rising stardom landed her on the cover of Time magazine, a significant cultural milestone. However, the experience left her deeply disappointed with the projected image. The cover, featuring the headline "Torchy Rock," presented an image that Ronstadt felt did not represent her true self, particularly in an era where women in the music industry often faced dictates from men about their attire and musical style. Ronstadt expressed her dissatisfaction with the cover image, feeling that the photographer had imposed a specific look on her by insisting she wear a dress—an image she actively tried to avoid projecting.
1977: Controversial Rolling Stone Photoshoot
In 1977, Ronstadt's rising fame led to both acclaim and scrutiny, particularly regarding her public image. A series of photographs accompanying the Rolling Stone cover story, captured by Annie Leibovitz, sparked controversy. The photos, featuring Ronstadt in revealing attire, including a red slip, drew unexpected attention. Ronstadt later expressed feeling misled, stating that she hadn't anticipated the photos to be so revealing. According to Ronstadt, her manager, Peter Asher, intervened and asked Leibovitz to leave their house when she presented the photos before publication. Leibovitz, however, refused to grant veto power over the images, which included a particularly revealing shot of Ronstadt on a bed in her undergarments. Reflecting on the incident in a 1977 interview, Ronstadt explained, "Annie [Leibovitz] saw that picture as an exposé of my personality. She was right. But I wouldn't choose to show a picture like that to anybody who didn't know me personally, because only friends could get the other sides of me in balance."
1977: Performance at the World Series
In a testament to her soaring popularity in 1977, Ronstadt was invited by the Los Angeles Dodgers to perform the U.S. National Anthem at a significant sporting event—game three of the World Series against the New York Yankees.
1977: "Crazy" Hits Top 10
In early 1977, Ronstadt's interpretation of Willie Nelson's ballad "Crazy," included in her album "Hasten Down the Wind," climbed the charts to become a Top 10 Country hit.
July 21, 1978: Guest appearance with the Rolling Stones
On July 21, 1978, Ronstadt made a guest appearance onstage with the Rolling Stones in her hometown of Tucson, Arizona, where she sang "Tumbling Dice" with Mick Jagger.
October 1978: International Success of "Simple Dreams"
By October 1978, "Simple Dreams" had cemented its place as one of Ronstadt's top-selling albums globally, topping both the Australian and Canadian Pop and Country Albums charts. The album's success solidified Ronstadt's position as a leading figure in the music industry, leading Country Music magazine to declare her "easily the most successful female rock and roll and country star at this time." Notably, "Simple Dreams" propelled Ronstadt to become the most successful international female touring artist, culminating in a concert tour across Europe that same year.
1978: The Queens of Rock
Us Weekly recognized Ronstadt, Joni Mitchell, Stevie Nicks, and Carly Simon as "The Queens of Rock" in 1978, highlighting the growing influence of women in rock music.
1978: Concert footage in the drama FM
Ronstadt appeared as herself in concert footage for the 1978 drama film, FM.
1978: Release of "Living in the USA" and Record-Breaking Success
In 1978, Ronstadt further solidified her status as a music icon with her album "Living in the USA." This album marked her third time reaching the No. 1 spot on the Billboard Album Chart, matching Carole King's record set in 1974. The album's success was fueled by hit singles like "Ooo Baby Baby," which dominated all four major singles charts (Pop, AC, Country, R&B). "Living in the USA" achieved another historical milestone by becoming the first album in music history, across all artists and genres, to ship double platinum—over 2 million copies—in advance orders. The album's domestic sales ultimately reached an impressive 3 million copies.
1978: Trio's First Attempt at Collaboration
In 1978, Linda Ronstadt, Dolly Parton, and Emmylou Harris, all successful artists in their own right, made their first attempt to collaborate on a Trio album. However, due to conflicting schedules and individual career commitments, the project was put on hold.
1978: Highest-paid woman in rock
By the end of 1978, Ronstadt became the "highest-paid woman in rock", fueled by her consistent platinum album success and sold-out concerts in arenas and stadiums.
1978: Trio's Second Attempt at Collaboration
After their initial attempt to record together in 1978, the Trio, consisting of Linda Ronstadt, Dolly Parton, and Emmylou Harris, faced another setback in 1994 when their planned follow-up album was delayed indefinitely due to scheduling conflicts and personal commitments.
1978: Appearance in the Film "FM"
Adding to her achievements in 1978, Ronstadt was featured in the film "FM." The film's plot revolved around a group of disc jockeys who strive to broadcast a Ronstadt concert live without alerting a rival station. In the film, Ronstadt captivated audiences with performances of her hit songs "Poor, Poor Pitiful Me," "Love Me Tender," and "Tumbling Dice." Interestingly, Ronstadt's decision to record "Tumbling Dice" stemmed from an encounter with Mick Jagger, who, after attending one of her concerts, remarked backstage, "You do too many ballads, you should do more rock and roll songs."
April 1979: Newsweek Magazine Cover and Relationship with Jerry Brown
Linda Ronstadt's relationship with then-Governor of California Jerry Brown became a major media event in April 1979 when they were featured on the cover of Newsweek magazine, as well as Us Weekly and People magazine, highlighting the intersection of their personal and public lives.
1979: International tour and benefit concert
In 1979, Ronstadt embarked on an international tour, performing in arenas across Australia and Japan, including notable venues like the Melbourne Cricket Ground and the Budokan. She also participated in a benefit concert for musician Lowell George in Los Angeles.
1979: Continued success and record sales
In 1979, Ronstadt's record sales continued to reach new heights, solidifying her position as a top female artist. Her 1976 Greatest Hits album achieved remarkable longevity, selling consistently for 25 years and reaching seven-times platinum certification by 2001.
February 1980: Release of Mad Love album
Ronstadt released Mad Love, her seventh consecutive platinum-selling album, in February 1980. The rock-oriented album incorporated post-punk and new wave influences.
1980: Release of Greatest Hits, Volume 2
Ronstadt released Greatest Hits, Volume 2, which also achieved platinum certification.
1980: Grammy Award nomination and critical acclaim for Mad Love
Ronstadt's Mad Love album garnered significant success, entering the Billboard Album Chart in the Top Five upon its release. It featured hit singles such as "How Do I Make You" and "Hurt So Bad." The album earned Ronstadt a Grammy Award nomination for Best Rock Vocal Performance/Female.
1980: Broadway debut in The Pirates of Penzance
Ronstadt made her Broadway debut in 1980, starring as Mabel in Gilbert and Sullivan's The Pirates of Penzance in a New York Shakespeare Festival production.
January 8, 1981: Broadway run of The Pirates of Penzance
Ronstadt's run in The Pirates of Penzance, alongside Kevin Kline, continued on Broadway from January 8, 1981, to November 28, 1982.
1981: Ronstadt Records and Abandons "Keeping Out of Mischief"
In 1981, Linda Ronstadt collaborated with producer Jerry Wexler to record an album of pop standards titled "Keeping Out of Mischief." However, Ronstadt was dissatisfied with the results and made the difficult decision to scrap the project.
1981: Peter Ronstadt Becomes Chief of Police
Linda Ronstadt's brother, Peter Ronstadt, assumed the position of Tucson's chief of police in 1981.
November 25, 1982: "Happy Thanksgiving Day" concert broadcast
On November 25, 1982, Ronstadt performed a "Happy Thanksgiving Day" concert at the Reunion Arena in Dallas, which was broadcast live on NBC radio stations across the United States.
November 28, 1982: End of Broadway run for The Pirates of Penzance
Ronstadt's run in The Pirates of Penzance, alongside Kevin Kline, continued on Broadway from January 8, 1981, to November 28, 1982.
1982: Release of Get Closer album
Ronstadt released the album Get Closer in 1982, a diverse project that blended rock, country, and pop music. It marked a departure from her consistent platinum streak, peaking at number 31 on the Billboard Album Chart.
1982: Death of Ruth Mary Copeman Ronstadt
Ruth Mary Copeman Ronstadt, Linda Ronstadt's mother, passed away in 1982.
September 1983: "What's New" Released to Critical Acclaim
"What's New," the first album in Linda Ronstadt's collaboration with Nelson Riddle, was released in September 1983 and quickly garnered critical acclaim. The album's unexpected success challenged conventional notions of genre and revitalized interest in the Great American Songbook.
1983: Film adaptation of The Pirates of Penzance
Ronstadt starred in the film version of The Pirates of Penzance in 1983. Her performance earned her a Golden Globe nomination.
1983: Last Country Chart Appearance Before Comeback
Prior to the release of "Walk On" from her 1995 album, Linda Ronstadt's last appearance on the Country Singles chart was in 1983.
1983: Ronstadt's Continued Success in the 1980s
Linda Ronstadt's music career continued to thrive in the 1980s, with her albums achieving significant commercial success and critical acclaim. Between 1983 and 1990, she released multiple platinum-selling albums, solidifying her status as a top-selling artist.
1983: Relationship with Jim Carrey
Linda Ronstadt dated comedian Jim Carrey for eight months in 1983.
1983: "What's New" Revitalizes the Great American Songbook
Linda Ronstadt's 1983 album "What's New," recorded with Nelson Riddle, marked a significant moment in music history as it successfully reintroduced the Great American Songbook to a wider audience. The album's popularity helped to bridge the gap between generations and rekindle appreciation for classic pop standards.
1983: Success of "Easy For You To Say"
In the spring of 1983, Ronstadt's rendition of the Jimmy Webb song "Easy For You To Say" became a surprise Top 10 Adult Contemporary hit.
1983: Release of What's New
In 1983, Linda Ronstadt released her album 'What's New,' which achieved significant commercial success and became one of her best-selling albums.
1983: Ronstadt Collaborates with Nelson Riddle on "What's New"
In 1983, Linda Ronstadt embarked on a groundbreaking collaboration with renowned conductor Nelson Riddle to record a trilogy of traditional pop albums, breathing new life into the Great American Songbook. The first installment, "What's New," was released in 1983.
1983: Ronstadt's Estimated Worth Reaches $40 Million
By 1983, Linda Ronstadt had amassed an estimated net worth of over $40 million, primarily from her successful music career, including record sales, concerts, and merchandise.
1984: Ronstadt and Riddle Embark on World Tour
Following the success of their collaborative albums, Linda Ronstadt and Nelson Riddle embarked on a world tour in 1984, captivating audiences with live performances of their interpretations of classic pop standards. The tour included shows at renowned venues such as Carnegie Hall, Radio City Music Hall, and Pine Knob.
1984: Ronstadt Releases "Lush Life" with Nelson Riddle
In 1984, Linda Ronstadt and Nelson Riddle continued their successful partnership with the release of their second album together, "Lush Life," further exploring the Great American Songbook with their unique blend of pop and orchestral arrangements.
1984: Performance in La bohème
In 1984, Ronstadt fulfilled a childhood dream by playing the role of Mimi in Puccini's opera La bohème at Joseph Papp's Public Theater. Despite her enthusiasm, the production was a critical and commercial disappointment.
April 1985: Ronstadt Discusses Abandoned Pop Standards Album
In April 1985, Ronstadt discussed an abandoned album of pop standards she had been working on with producer Jerry Wexler. Despite her initial enthusiasm for the project, Ronstadt expressed disappointment with the outcome and ultimately decided to shelve it.
January 1986: Trio Reunites to Record Album
In January 1986, after nearly a decade of anticipation, Linda Ronstadt, Dolly Parton, and Emmylou Harris reunited in the studio to begin recording their highly anticipated Trio album.
1986: Ronstadt Faces Criticism for Sun City Performance
In 1986, Linda Ronstadt faced criticism for performing at Sun City, a South African resort, despite the cultural boycott against apartheid. Her decision sparked controversy and drew criticism from those who supported the boycott.
1986: Ronstadt Releases "For Sentimental Reasons" with Nelson Riddle
In 1986, Linda Ronstadt and Nelson Riddle completed their trilogy of traditional pop albums with the release of "For Sentimental Reasons," concluding their exploration of the Great American Songbook with a collection of timeless classics.
March 1987: "Trio" Album Released to Critical and Commercial Success
After much anticipation, the Trio album, featuring Linda Ronstadt, Dolly Parton, and Emmylou Harris, was released in March 1987. The album was a massive success, topping the Billboard Country Albums chart for five weeks and achieving platinum-selling status.
1987: Release of Canciones de Mi Padre
In 1987, Linda Ronstadt released "Canciones de Mi Padre," an album of traditional Mexican folk songs. The album showcased her family's musical heritage and featured arrangements by mariachi musician Rubén Fuentes.
1987: Release of Canciones De Mi Padre
In 1987, Linda Ronstadt released 'Canciones De Mi Padre,' an album entirely in Spanish, which achieved groundbreaking success as the best-selling non-English-language album in American music history.
1987: Release of "Somewhere Out There" and Chart Success
Linda Ronstadt returned to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1987 with the single "Somewhere Out There," a duet with James Ingram from the animated film "An American Tail." The song peaked at number 2 and earned a Grammy Award for Song of the Year.
1988: Return to Broadway with Canciones De Mi Padre
In 1988, Ronstadt returned to Broadway for a limited run of a musical show adapted from her album Canciones De Mi Padre – A Romantic Evening in Old Mexico, which celebrated her Mexican heritage.
1988: End of Engagement with George Lucas
Linda Ronstadt's engagement to 'Star Wars' director George Lucas ended in 1988 after five years.
1989: Release of Cry Like A Rainstorm, Howl Like The Wind
In 1989, Linda Ronstadt released the album "Cry Like A Rainstorm, Howl Like The Wind," which became one of her most successful albums both critically and commercially. It reached number 7 on the Billboard chart and achieved triple-platinum certification.
1989: Collaboration with Aaron Neville and Grammy Wins
Linda Ronstadt collaborated with Aaron Neville on the duets "Don't Know Much" and "All My Life" from her album "Cry Like a Rainstorm, Howl Like the Wind." The songs were major hits in 1989, topping the Adult Contemporary chart and earning Grammy Awards for Best Pop Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal.
1989: Release of Cry Like a Rainstorm, Howl Like the Wind
Linda Ronstadt's album 'Cry Like a Rainstorm, Howl Like the Wind' was released in 1989, marking another milestone in her career with its impressive sales figures.
December 1990: John Lennon Tribute Concert
In December 1990, Linda Ronstadt participated in a concert at the Tokyo Dome commemorating John Lennon's 50th birthday and raising awareness for environmental issues. The concert featured a diverse lineup of artists and resulted in the album "Happy Birthday, John."
December 1990: Adoption of Mary Clementine Ronstadt
In December 1990, Linda Ronstadt adopted her first child, a daughter named Mary Clementine Ronstadt, marking a significant life change as she embraced motherhood.
1990: Performance with Aaron Neville at the Grammy Awards
Linda Ronstadt and Aaron Neville performed their hit duet "Don't Know Much" at the 1990 Grammy Awards ceremony.
1990: Ronstadt's Continued Success in the 1980s
Linda Ronstadt's music career continued to thrive in the 1980s, with her albums achieving significant commercial success and critical acclaim. Between 1983 and 1990, she released multiple platinum-selling albums, solidifying her status as a top-selling artist.
1990: End of consistent platinum streak
Get Closer remained her only album between 1975 and 1990 not to be certified platinum.
1991: Ronstadt Stars in La Pastorela
In 1991, Linda Ronstadt starred as the archangel San Miguel in "La Pastorela, or A Shephard's Tale," a musical filmed at San Juan Bautista and directed by Luis Valdez. The production aired as part of the PBS Great Performances series.
1991: Peter Ronstadt Steps Down as Chief of Police
In 1991, Peter Ronstadt concluded his tenure as Tucson's chief of police.
1991: Release of "Dreams to Dream"
Linda Ronstadt recorded "Dreams to Dream," the theme song for the animated film "An American Tail: Fievel Goes West." The song became an Adult Contemporary hit for Ronstadt in 1991.
1991: Release of Mas Canciones and Grammy Win
Linda Ronstadt released "Mas Canciones" in 1991, a follow-up to her successful album "Canciones de Mi Padre". The album earned her a Grammy Award for Best Mexican/Mexican-American Album.
1991: Tucson Transit Terminal Dedication
On March 16, 1991, the City of Tucson inaugurated its central transit terminal and dedicated it to Linda Ronstadt's grandfather, Federico José María Ronstadt, a prominent local businessman and pioneer.
1993: Release of "Winter Light" and Lo Nuestro Award Nominations
In 1993, Linda Ronstadt released her album "Winter Light," which featured New Age arrangements and marked her first commercial setback since 1972. The same year, she received three Lo Nuestro Award nominations, including Female Regional Mexican Artist of the Year and Female Tropical/Salsa Artist of the Year.
1994: Trio II Album Recording
Linda Ronstadt, Dolly Parton, and Emmylou Harris recorded "Trio II" in 1994.
1994: Trio Records Follow-Up Album
In 1994, Linda Ronstadt, Dolly Parton, and Emmylou Harris reunited once again to record a follow-up to their successful Trio album.
1994: Adoption of Carlos Ronstadt
Linda Ronstadt expanded her family in 1994 when she adopted her second child, a son named Carlos Ronstadt.
1995: Death of Gilbert Ronstadt
Gilbert Ronstadt, Linda Ronstadt's father, passed away in 1995.
1995: Ronstadt Releases "Feels Like Home"
In 1995, Linda Ronstadt released her album "Feels Like Home," which included some of the recordings initially intended for the Trio's follow-up album. Ronstadt took charge of production and reworked the material after Parton's request to have her vocals removed from the project.
1995: Release of "Feels Like Home" and Country Music Comeback
In 1995, Ronstadt released "Feels Like Home," an album that marked her return to country-rock and included a popular cover of Tom Petty's "The Waiting." This album performed better than "Winter Light" and brought her back to the Country Singles chart for the first time since 1983.
1996: Release of "Dedicated to the One I Love" and Grammy Win
In 1996, Linda Ronstadt released "Dedicated to the One I Love," an album of lullabies adapted from classic rock and roll songs. This album was a commercial success and earned Ronstadt a Grammy Award for Best Musical Album for Children.
1997: Move to Tucson, Arizona
In 1997, Linda Ronstadt decided to move back to her hometown of Tucson, Arizona, to provide a different environment for raising her two children.
1998: Release of "We Ran"
In 1998, Ronstadt released "We Ran," an album that revisited her country-rock and folk-rock roots. Despite receiving positive reviews from critics, the album was a commercial failure.
1998: Ronstadt Discusses Her Musical Heritage
In a 1998 interview in her Tucson home, Linda Ronstadt opened up about her musical heritage, highlighting the influence of her father's love for Mariachi music and her mother's affinity for Nelson Riddle's arrangements, underlining the profound impact of family on her artistic journey.
1999: Production of Trio II and Grammy Win
Linda Ronstadt produced the album 'Trio II' in 1999. The album won a Grammy Award, adding to Ronstadt's accolades for her work behind the scenes.
1999: New Year's Eve Performance at Staples Center
To celebrate the end of the millennium, Ronstadt performed alongside the Eagles and Jackson Browne at the Staples Center on New Year's Eve in 1999. The concert was intended as a major event to mark the transition to the year 2000.
1999: Release of "Western Wall: The Tucson Sessions" and Grammy Nomination
In 1999, Ronstadt released "Western Wall: The Tucson Sessions," a collaborative folk-rock album with Emmylou Harris. The album was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Folk Album and charted in the top 10 of Billboard's Country Albums chart.
1999: VH1's 100 Greatest Women of Rock & Roll
In 1999, Linda Ronstadt was ranked number 21 on VH1's list of the '100 Greatest Women of Rock & Roll,' recognizing her influence and impact on the genre.
1999: Trio II Album Release and Grammy Win
In 1999, Linda Ronstadt, Dolly Parton, and Emmylou Harris released their collaborative album "Trio II," which had been recorded in 1994. The album featured a popular cover of Neil Young's "After The Gold Rush" and achieved Gold certification. It also earned the trio a Grammy Award for Best Country Collaboration with Vocals.
2000: Reduced Musical Activity
Around 2000, Linda Ronstadt began to reduce her musical activity due to her declining singing voice.
2000: Release of "A Merry Little Christmas" and Departure from Elektra/Asylum
In 2000, Linda Ronstadt concluded her contract with Elektra/Asylum by releasing "A Merry Little Christmas," her debut holiday album, marking the end of a long professional relationship with the record label.
2000: Ronstadt Voices Strong Support for Sustainable Agriculture Pioneer Wes Jackson
In 2000, Linda Ronstadt expressed her deep admiration for the work of Wes Jackson, a pioneer in sustainable agriculture, emphasizing the significance of his efforts in the United States.
2001: RIAA Certification and Sales Figures
As of 2001, the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) had certified Linda Ronstadt's U.S. album sales at over 30 million, while other sources estimated her total sales to be even higher.
2001: Greatest Hits Sales Milestone
By 2001, Linda Ronstadt's 'Greatest Hits' compilation album had sold over seven million units, solidifying its status as a major commercial success.
2001: Canciones de Mi Padre Achieves Double Platinum Certification
In 2001, "Canciones de Mi Padre" was certified double-platinum by the RIAA, signifying shipments of over 2 million copies in the United States. This achievement made it the best-selling non-English-language album in U.S. music history.
2001: Greatest Hits album certified seven-times platinum
In 2001, Ronstadt's 1976 Greatest Hits album was certified seven-times platinum by the RIAA.
2002: The Very Best Of Linda Ronstadt Release and Recognition
The year 2002 saw the release of Linda Ronstadt's compilation album 'The Very Best Of Linda Ronstadt,' which earned recognition by being included in Rolling Stone's '500 Greatest Albums of All Time.'
July 17, 2004: Performance and Political Statement in Las Vegas
On July 17, 2004, Linda Ronstadt sparked controversy during a concert in Las Vegas when she praised Michael Moore's documentary 'Fahrenheit 9/11' and dedicated a song to him. The incident highlighted Ronstadt's willingness to express her political views and sparked mixed reactions from the audience.
2004: Ronstadt Praises Michael Moore, Sparks Controversy
In 2004, Linda Ronstadt sparked controversy by praising filmmaker Michael Moore and his documentary "Fahrenheit 9/11" during a concert at the Aladdin Casino in Las Vegas. This led to her being banned from the venue and sparked a debate about freedom of speech for entertainers.
2004: Final Solo Album
Linda Ronstadt released her final solo album in 2004, marking a significant moment in her career.
2004: Praise from Jazz Times
In 2004, Christopher Loudon of Jazz Times praised Linda Ronstadt, stating that she possessed "arguably the most sterling set of pipes of her generation."
2004: Ronstadt Releases Jazz Album "Hummin' to Myself"
In 2004, Linda Ronstadt released "Hummin' to Myself," a jazz album that marked her return to the genre after her previous collaborations with Jerry Wexler and Nelson Riddle.
2004: Ronstadt Authors Foreword for "The NPR Curious Listener's Guide to American Folk Music"
In 2004, Linda Ronstadt contributed the foreword to the book "The NPR Curious Listener's Guide to American Folk Music," sharing her knowledge and passion for the genre.
2004: Reflection on Time Magazine Cover
In a 2004 interview on CBS This Morning, Ronstadt reiterated her discomfort with the Time cover, stating that the portrayed image was not an accurate reflection of her and that she would not have chosen to pose in that manner. Ronstadt's manager, Peter Asher, defended her stance, highlighting her independent spirit and determination, stating, "Anyone who's met Linda for 10 seconds will know that I couldn't possibly have been her Svengali. She's an extremely determined woman, in every area. To me, she was everything that feminism's about." Asher pointed out that the qualities Ronstadt possessed were often perceived negatively in women during that time, while men with the same traits were seen as assertive and bold. Throughout her career, Ronstadt had relentlessly fought for recognition as a solo female artist in the male-dominated world of rock music, and the image projected on the Time cover seemed to undermine her efforts.
2005: Ronstadt Pens Introduction to "Classic Ferrington Guitars"
Linda Ronstadt wrote the introduction to the 2005 book "Classic Ferrington Guitars." This book focused on luthier Danny Ferrington and the bespoke guitars he made for Ronstadt and other renowned musicians like Elvis Costello, Ry Cooder, and Kurt Cobain.
2006: Ronstadt Continues Support for Michael Moore, Faces Backlash
Despite facing criticism and backlash for her 2004 comments praising Michael Moore, Linda Ronstadt continued to voice her support for him during her 2006 North American concert tour.
2006: Ronstadt Criticizes President George W. Bush in Canada
During a 2006 concert in Canada, Linda Ronstadt publicly criticized then-President George W. Bush, calling him "an idiot" and "enormously incompetent" for his handling of domestic and international affairs, particularly the Iraq War. Her comments sparked international attention.
2006: Final Collaborative Album
In 2006, Linda Ronstadt released her last collaborative album, signifying the closing of a chapter in her musical journey.
2006: Release of "Adieu False Heart" and Final Tour
In 2006, Ronstadt, performing as part of a duo called the ZoZo Sisters, released the album "Adieu False Heart." The album, a fusion of pop, Cajun, and early 20th-century music, achieved limited commercial success. This marked Ronstadt's final tour before she retired from singing due to the effects of a degenerative neurological condition that was later identified as progressive supranuclear palsy.
August 14, 2007: Ronstadt Reflects on Outspoken Views, Urges for Grace
In an interview on August 14, 2007, Linda Ronstadt reflected on her history of making bold political statements, particularly the 2004 incident involving Michael Moore. She acknowledged that she could have been more respectful in her delivery while encouraging others to express their views with grace.
August 2007: Newport Folk Festival Debut and Final Performances
Ronstadt made her first appearance at the Newport Folk Festival in August 2007, showcasing a diverse setlist that included jazz, rock, and folk music. These performances marked some of her final concerts before her retirement.
August 2007: Ronstadt Dedicates "Desperado" to Wes Jackson at Kansas City Concert
During an August 2007 concert in Kansas City, Kansas, Linda Ronstadt dedicated her performance of the song "Desperado" to Wes Jackson, a pioneer in sustainable agriculture, highlighting her support for his work.
September 23, 2007: Ronstadt Inducted into Arizona Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame
On September 23, 2007, Linda Ronstadt was inducted into the Arizona Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame alongside Stevie Nicks, Buck Owens, and filmmaker Steven Spielberg.
2007: Contribution to Ella Fitzgerald Tribute Album
Ronstadt participated in "We All Love Ella: Celebrating the First Lady of Song," a tribute album honoring jazz icon Ella Fitzgerald, by performing "Miss Otis Regrets" in 2007.
2007: Ronstadt Criticizes Tucson's Urban Development
In 2007, while residing in San Francisco but maintaining a home in Tucson, Linda Ronstadt openly criticized the city's urban development, blaming the city council, developers, and a growing dust problem for negatively impacting the city's character. This critique garnered mixed reactions from Tucson residents.
2007: Ronstadt Reflects on Collaborations
In 2007, Linda Ronstadt reflected on her musical collaborations, noting that singing with other artists allowed her to explore different vocal capabilities.
August 17, 2008: Ronstadt Receives Trailblazer Award at ALMA Awards
Linda Ronstadt received the Trailblazer Award at the 2008 ALMA Awards on August 17, 2008. The award was presented to her by Plácido Domingo, and the ceremony featured tributes from artists such as BeBe Winans and Wynonna Judd. The event was later broadcasted on ABC.
2008: Ronstadt Appointed Artistic Director of San José Mariachi and Mexican Heritage Festival
In 2008, Linda Ronstadt took on the role of artistic director for the San José Mariachi and Mexican Heritage Festival.
2008: Deletion of "We Ran"
By 2008, "We Ran," which had been a commercial disappointment, was removed from sale, making it the poorest-selling studio album in Ronstadt's Elektra/Asylum catalog.
March 31, 2009: Ronstadt Testifies Before Congress for Arts Funding
On March 31, 2009, Linda Ronstadt provided compelling testimony to the United States Congress House Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior, Environment & Related Agencies. Her plea urged lawmakers to allocate $200 million to the National Endowment of the Arts in the 2010 fiscal year.
May 2009: Ronstadt Receives Honorary Doctorate from Berklee College of Music
In May 2009, the Berklee College of Music recognized Linda Ronstadt's remarkable career by awarding her an honorary doctorate of music degree. This prestigious honor acknowledged her impact on the music industry, her dedication to the art of singing, and her contributions to American and international culture.
August 2009: Ronstadt Champions Gay Rights and Same-Sex Marriage
In August 2009, Linda Ronstadt gave an interview where she strongly advocated for gay rights and same-sex marriage. She labeled homophobia as being against family values, further solidifying her stance on social justice issues.
2009: Final Live Concert
Linda Ronstadt gave her final live concert performance in 2009, leaving a lasting impact on her devoted fans.
2009: Martin Guitar Company Limited Edition Guitar
The Martin Guitar Company released a limited-edition acoustic guitar in honor of Linda Ronstadt in 2009. The 'Linda Ronstadt Limited Edition' guitar benefited the Land Institute, a non-profit organization supported by Ronstadt.
January 16, 2010: Ronstadt Joins "National Day of Action" Protesting Arizona's Immigration Law
On January 16, 2010, Linda Ronstadt participated in a "National Day of Action" to protest Arizona's controversial immigration law, SB 1070. Citing her family's law enforcement background in Arizona, she specifically criticized the law's impact on the treatment of illegal immigrants and the actions of Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio.
April 29, 2010: Ronstadt Campaigns Against Arizona Immigration Law SB 1070
Beginning on April 29, 2010, Linda Ronstadt joined a lawsuit and actively campaigned against Arizona's controversial immigration law, SB 1070. She argued that the law was detrimental to law enforcement and undermined democratic principles. She drew from her brother Peter's experience as Tucson's Chief of Police to support her argument.
2010: Ronstadt's Triology of Traditional Pop Albums Achieves Multi-Million Sales
By 2010, the trio of traditional pop albums Ronstadt recorded with Nelson Riddle, including "What's New" (1983), "Lush Life" (1984), and "For Sentimental Reasons" (1986), had achieved combined sales of nearly seven million copies in the United States alone, solidifying their enduring popularity.
2010: Ronstadt's Advocacy for Arts Funding Gains Recognition
Linda Ronstadt's impassioned testimony before Congress in 2009, advocating for increased funding for the National Endowment of the Arts in the 2010 fiscal year, was widely praised and recognized for its impact.
2010: Collaboration with The Chieftains
In 2010, Ronstadt collaborated with the Irish folk group The Chieftains on their album "San Patricio (with Ry Cooder)," arranging and singing lead vocals on the track "A La Orilla de un Palmar." This marked her last commercially available recording as a lead vocalist.
2010: "Hummin' to Myself" Achieves Critical Acclaim
By 2010, "Hummin' to Myself," Linda Ronstadt's 2004 jazz album, had sold over 75,000 copies in the United States and garnered critical acclaim within the jazz community, solidifying her versatility as an artist.
September 6, 2011: Ronstadt Featured on Buddy Holly Tribute Album
Released on September 6, 2011, the tribute album "Listen to Me: Buddy Holly" included Ronstadt's 1976 rendition of "That'll Be The Day."
2011: Retirement from Music
Citing health reasons, Linda Ronstadt officially announced her retirement from music in 2011.
2011: Retirement Announcement
Linda Ronstadt announced her retirement from music in 2011 during an interview with the Arizona Daily Star.
2011: Latin Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award
Linda Ronstadt received the Latin Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2011, a testament to her impact on Latin music.
2011: Retirement and End of an Era
Linda Ronstadt's retirement in 2011 marked the end of an era for the music industry, leaving behind a legacy of groundbreaking achievements and a lasting impact on the role of women in music.
December 2012: Parkinson's Disease Diagnosis
In December 2012, Linda Ronstadt was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, a diagnosis that was later revised to progressive supranuclear palsy. This diagnosis affected her ability to sing.
2012: Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Albums of All Time Revision
In 2012, Rolling Stone magazine revised their '500 Greatest Albums of All Time' list, keeping Linda Ronstadt's 'The Very Best Of' compilation and raising its ranking on the list.
August 2013: Parkinson's Disease Diagnosis
In August 2013, Linda Ronstadt publicly announced that she had been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease eight months prior. The diagnosis had a significant impact on her singing career due to the loss of muscular control often associated with the disease.
August 2013: Public Disclosure of Parkinson's Disease
Ronstadt disclosed her Parkinson's disease diagnosis to the public in August 2013, revealing that it had robbed her of her singing voice. The diagnosis was later revised to progressive supranuclear palsy.
September 2013: Release of "Simple Dreams: A Musical Memoir"
Linda Ronstadt published her autobiography, "Simple Dreams: A Musical Memoir," in September 2013, offering insights into her life and career.
2013: Canciones De Mi Padre Sales Milestone
By 2013, 'Canciones De Mi Padre' had sold over 21.5 million copies in the U.S., solidifying its place as a landmark achievement in music history.
2013: Publication of 'Simple Dreams: A Musical Memoir'
Linda Ronstadt's autobiography, 'Simple Dreams: A Musical Memoir,' was published in 2013, offering fans and readers a personal account of her life and career.
April 10, 2014: Induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
Linda Ronstadt was honored with induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on April 10, 2014.
April 2014: Induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
In April 2014, Linda Ronstadt was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, solidifying her legacy as a rock music icon.
July 28, 2014: National Medal of Arts and Humanities
Linda Ronstadt was awarded the National Medal of Arts and Humanities on July 28, 2014, recognizing her significant contributions to American culture.
December 2016: Continued Success of "Western Wall: The Tucson Sessions"
By December 2016, "Western Wall: The Tucson Sessions," Ronstadt's folk-rock collaboration with Emmylou Harris, had sold over 223,255 copies, according to Nielsen SoundScan, and remained available for purchase.
2016: Lifetime Achievement Grammy Award
Linda Ronstadt was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Grammy Award by The National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences in 2016, recognizing her significant contributions to the music industry.
2016: Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award
In 2016, Linda Ronstadt's illustrious career was honored with the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.
February 2019: Release of live album
A live album of Ronstadt's performance promoting Mad Love was released in February 2019.
July 2019: Kennedy Center Honoree
In July 2019, Linda Ronstadt received the prestigious Kennedy Center Honor in recognition of her significant contributions to American culture.
2019: Release of "Linda Ronstadt: The Sound of My Voice"
A documentary film based on Linda Ronstadt's life and career, titled "Linda Ronstadt: The Sound of My Voice," was released in 2019.
2019: Recognition of Ronstadt's Influence
By 2019, publications like Rolling Stone acknowledged Linda Ronstadt's substantial influence on music, crediting her with popularizing the works of artists like Buddy Holly, Chuck Berry, and Elvis Costello to a new generation.
2019: Revised Diagnosis: Progressive Supranuclear Palsy
In late 2019, Linda Ronstadt's doctors revised her diagnosis from Parkinson's disease to progressive supranuclear palsy, a degenerative illness that shares similar symptoms with Parkinson's and often leads to misdiagnosis.
2019: Kennedy Center Honors and Hollywood Walk of Fame Star
Linda Ronstadt received the Kennedy Center Honors for lifetime artistic achievements in 2019. That same year, she also received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame alongside Dolly Parton and Emmylou Harris for their work as the group Trio.
December 2020: Canciones de Mi Padre Inducted into Grammy Hall of Fame
In December 2020, Linda Ronstadt's album "Canciones de Mi Padre" was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame.
May 7, 2022: Tucson Music Hall Renamed in Ronstadt's Honor
On May 7, 2022, as a tribute to her legacy, the Tucson Music Hall at the Tucson Convention Center was renamed The Linda Ronstadt Music Hall during the International Mariachi Conference.
2022: Publication of Memoir "Feels Like Home: A Song for the Sonoran Borderlands"
Linda Ronstadt's memoir, titled "Feels Like Home: A Song for the Sonoran Borderlands," was published in 2022.
2023: Rolling Stone's 200 Greatest Singers of All Time
Linda Ronstadt was ranked number 47 on Rolling Stone's '200 Greatest Singers of All Time' list in 2023, cementing her legacy as one of the most remarkable vocalists in music history.