Full History Of Linda Ronstadt In Timeline From 1903

1903: Grandfather's streetcar contribution

In 1903, Federico José María Ronstadt, Linda's grandfather, delivered six mule-drawn streetcars to the city of Tucson, Arizona, contributing to the city's early mobility.

January 1946: University of Arizona published Canciones de mi Padre by Luisa Espinel

In January 1946, the University of Arizona published a booklet titled "Canciones de mi Padre" by Luisa Espinel, Linda Ronstadt's aunt, who was an international singer and had learned these songs from her father, Fred Ronstadt.

July 15, 1946: Linda Ronstadt's Birth

Linda Maria Ronstadt was born on July 15, 1946, in Tucson, Arizona. She was the third of four children born to Gilbert Ronstadt and Ruth Mary Copeman Ronstadt.

1953: Family Feature in Family Circle Magazine

In 1953, the Ronstadt family was featured in Family Circle magazine, showcasing their family life.

1963: "Heat Wave" original release by Martha and the Vandellas

In 1963, Martha and the Vandellas originally released the hit song "Heat Wave," which Linda Ronstadt later covered with a rock twist, achieving significant airplay and chart success in 1975.

1964: Move to Los Angeles and Meeting Bobby Kimmel

In 1964, Linda Ronstadt visited Bobby Kimmel in Los Angeles and decided to move there permanently to form a band with him.

1964: Move to Los Angeles

In 1964, after a semester at the University of Arizona, Linda Ronstadt, at the age of 18, decided to move to Los Angeles to pursue her musical aspirations.

1965: "I Knew You When" Released by Billy Joe Royal

In 1965, Billy Joe Royal had a hit with the song "I Knew You When", which Linda Ronstadt later covered on her "Get Closer" album in 1982.

1966: Signing with Capitol Records as The Stone Poneys

In the summer of 1966, Linda Ronstadt, along with Bobby Kimmel and Kenny Edwards, was signed by Nik Venet to Capitol Records as "the Stone Poneys".

1967: The Stone Poneys Album Releases

During 1967, the Stone Poneys released three albums in a 15 month period: "The Stone Poneys", "Evergreen, Volume 2", and "Linda Ronstadt, Stone Poneys and Friends, Vol. III".

1968: Ronstadt likens country music to "Mexican bluegrass"

In 1968, Linda Ronstadt characterized the fusion of country music and ranchera rhythms as similar to "Mexican bluegrass", integrating them into her rock 'n' roll and pop music, drawing from her Southwestern roots.

1969: Release of Hand Sown ... Home Grown

In 1969, Linda Ronstadt released "Hand Sown ... Home Grown", her first solo album, which has been described as the first alternative country record by a female recording artist.

1969: First Solo Album Release

In 1969, Linda Ronstadt released her first solo album, "Hand Sown ... Home Grown".

1969: Challenges as a "chick singer"

In a 1969 interview in Fusion magazine, Linda Ronstadt discussed the challenges of being a single "chick singer" with an all-male backup band, citing difficulties in getting a band due to ego problems.

March 1970: Release of "Silk Purse" album

In March 1970, Linda Ronstadt released her second solo album, "Silk Purse", which was recorded in Nashville and produced by Elliot Mazer. Despite Ronstadt's dissatisfaction with the album, it yielded her first solo hit, "Long, Long Time", and a Grammy nomination.

1970: Criticism for genre-crossing music

In 1970, Linda Ronstadt faced criticism from music "purists" due to her genre-crossing music, with perceptions varying across rock, folk, pop, and country audiences.

1971: Touring with the Eagles' future members

In 1971, Don Henley, Glenn Frey, Bernie Leadon, and Randy Meisner, who would later form the Eagles, toured with Linda Ronstadt for a short period and played on her self-titled third album. Also in 1971, Ronstadt began discussions with David Geffen about moving to Asylum Records.

1973: Beginning of "Don't Cry Now" Album Production

In 1973, Linda Ronstadt began working on her fourth solo album, "Don't Cry Now", co-producing tracks with John David "JD" Souther and later enlisting Peter Asher to help produce two songs.

1974: Interview with Crawdaddy

In 1974 Linda Ronstadt told Peter Knobler in Crawdaddy, "People are always taking advantage of you; everybody that's interested in you has got an angle."

1974: Heart Like a Wheel Included in Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Albums

In 1974, Heart Like a Wheel was included in Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Albums of All Time at number 164.

1974: Comments on Finding a Mate

In 1974, Linda Ronstadt commented on the challenges of finding an acceptable mate.

1974: Ronstadt's musical preferences

In 1974, author Katherine Orloff wrote in "Rock 'N' Roll Woman" that Linda Ronstadt's musical preferences leaned towards rhythm and blues, and she aimed to infuse soulfulness into her music by blending country and rock.

1974: Time Fades Away Tour and Meeting Emmylou Harris

In 1974, with the release of "Don't Cry Now", Linda Ronstadt opened for Neil Young's Time Fades Away tour. She also met Emmylou Harris, leading to frequent collaborations. Additionally, "Don't Cry Now" became Ronstadt's most successful album up to that time, selling 300,000 copies by the end of 1974.

1974: Equaling Carole King's Record

In 1978, Linda Ronstadt's achievement of a third number 1 album on the Billboard Album Chart equaled the record previously set by Carole King in 1974.

March 1975: Rolling Stone cover featuring Ronstadt

In March 1975, Linda Ronstadt appeared on the cover of Rolling Stone, marking the first of six covers shot by Annie Leibovitz, accompanied by an article discussing her struggles and experiences as a woman in rock and roll.

September 1975: "Prisoner in Disguise" album release

In September 1975, Linda Ronstadt's album "Prisoner in Disguise" was released, quickly reaching the Top Five on the Billboard Album Chart and selling over a million copies, becoming her second consecutive platinum album.

1975: Start of Platinum Album Streak

1975 marks the start of Linda Ronstadt's streak of platinum certified albums, which would continue until 1990, with Get Closer being the only album in between not to get the certification.

1975: Tour with Jackson Browne, the Eagles, and Toots and the Maytals

In 1975, Linda Ronstadt performed shows with Jackson Browne, the Eagles, and Toots and the Maytals, where she sang lead vocals on various songs and contributed to background vocals and instrumentals.

1975: Ronstadt's breakthrough year

In 1975, Linda Ronstadt, at age 29, experienced a breakthrough, marking a significant turning point in her music career after several years in the music scene.

1976: Appearance on Rolling Stone cover

In 1976, Linda Ronstadt appeared on the cover of Rolling Stone, which included revealing photos taken by Annie Leibovitz, leading to discomfort as Ronstadt felt the photos were too revealing.

1976: Top 3 Billboard Album Chart and Grammy Win

In 1976, Linda Ronstadt reached the Top 3 of Billboard's Album Chart and won her second Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance for her third consecutive platinum album, "Hasten Down the Wind".

1976: Ronstadt's version of Buddy Holly Song

In 1976, Linda Ronstadt recorded her version of Buddy Holly's "That'll Be The Day".

1976: Release of Greatest Hits

In 1976, Linda Ronstadt released Greatest Hits, which became her highest-selling album to date, certified for over seven million units sold as of 2001.

1976: "Greatest Hits" album release

In 1976, Linda Ronstadt's "Greatest Hits" album was released and continued to sell consistently for the next 25 years, eventually being certified seven-times platinum in 2001.

1976: Collaboration with her father on "Lo siento mi vida"

In 1976, Ronstadt collaborated with her father to write and compose a traditional Mexican folk ballad, "Lo siento mi vida," which she included on Hasten Down the Wind.

1976: Rolling Stone Interview

In a 1976 Rolling Stone interview with Cameron Crowe, Linda Ronstadt discussed the loneliness of being on the road and the challenges of being perceived as a "girl-singer".

1977: Release of Simple Dreams

In 1977, Linda Ronstadt released her album Simple Dreams. It became one of her biggest-selling studio albums, achieving certification for over three million copies sold.

1977: Singing the U.S. National Anthem at the World Series

In 1977, Linda Ronstadt was invited by the Los Angeles Dodgers to sing the U.S. National Anthem at game three of the World Series against the New York Yankees.

1977: "Simple Dreams" album success

In 1977, Linda Ronstadt's album "Simple Dreams" reached number 1 on the Billboard 200 chart for five consecutive weeks after spending nine weeks at number 2, selling over 3.5 million copies in the U.S. alone and spawning hit singles like "Blue Bayou" and "It's So Easy".

1977: Appearance on Time cover as "Torchy Rock"

In 1977, Linda Ronstadt's appearance on the cover of Time magazine under the banner "Torchy Rock" upset her because she felt the image projected a misrepresentation of herself and her stance as a female rock singer.

1977: Controversy over Rolling Stone Photographs

In 1977, controversy arose over a series of revealing photographs of Linda Ronstadt taken by Annie Leibovitz for Rolling Stone, which Ronstadt felt were an exposé of her personality and inappropriate for those who didn't know her personally.

1977: "Crazy" becomes a Top 10 Country hit

In early 1977, Linda Ronstadt's interpretation of Willie Nelson's ballad "Crazy" became a Top 10 Country hit, further showcasing her versatility and appeal across genres.

July 21, 1978: Guest appearance with The Rolling Stones

On July 21, 1978, Linda Ronstadt made a guest appearance onstage with the Rolling Stones at the Tucson Community Center in her hometown of Tucson, where she sang "Tumbling Dice" with Mick Jagger.

October 1978: Ronstadt solidified as most successful female rock and roll and country star

In October 1978, Country Music magazine highlighted that Linda Ronstadt's album, "Simple Dreams," solidified her status as "easily the most successful female rock and roll and country star at this time."

1978: Ronstadt becomes the "highest-paid woman in rock"

By the end of 1978, Linda Ronstadt solidified her role as one of rock and pop's most successful solo female acts and became the "highest-paid woman in rock", earning over $12 million in that year alone.

1978: "Living in the USA" album success

In 1978, Linda Ronstadt achieved a third number 1 album on the Billboard Album Chart with "Living in the USA," which was the first album in music history to ship double-platinum and achieved a major hit single with "Ooo Baby Baby."

1978: Linda Ronstadt Makes Film Appearance in FM

In 1978, Linda Ronstadt appeared as herself in the drama FM, performing concert footage.

1978: Appearance in the film FM

In 1978, Linda Ronstadt was featured in the film FM, where she performed "Poor, Poor Pitiful Me", "Love Me Tender", and "Tumbling Dice", and the plot centered around broadcasting her concert live.

1978: Initial Trio Album Attempt with Parton and Harris

In 1978, Linda Ronstadt, Dolly Parton, and Emmylou Harris first attempted to collaborate on a Trio album, but the project did not pan out due to scheduling conflicts and individual career priorities.

1978: Rolling Stone declares Ronstadt "America's best-known female rock singer"

In 1978, Rolling Stone declared Linda Ronstadt "by far America's best-known female rock singer".

1978: Ronstadt, Mitchell, Nicks, and Simon dubbed "The Queens of Rock"

In 1978, Us Weekly reported that Linda Ronstadt, Joni Mitchell, Stevie Nicks, and Carly Simon had become "The Queens of Rock," signifying the increasing prominence of women in the music industry.

April 1979: Newsweek Cover with Jerry Brown

In April 1979, Linda Ronstadt and then-Governor of California Jerry Brown appeared on the cover of Newsweek magazine, as well as the covers of Us Weekly and People magazine.

1979: Multiple certifications for albums

By 1979, Linda Ronstadt had earned eight gold, six platinum, and four multi-platinum certifications for her albums, marking an unprecedented achievement at the time.

1979: International tour and benefit concert participation

In 1979, Linda Ronstadt embarked on an international tour, performing in arenas across Australia and Japan, and also participated in a benefit concert for her friend Lowell George in Los Angeles.

February 1980: "Mad Love" album release

In February 1980, Linda Ronstadt released "Mad Love", her seventh consecutive platinum-selling album, featuring a straightforward rock and roll sound with post-punk and new wave influences.

1980: "Greatest Hits, Volume 2" released and certified platinum

In 1980, Linda Ronstadt released "Greatest Hits, Volume 2", which was subsequently certified platinum, adding to her collection of successful albums.

1980: Mad Love Album Success and Grammy Nomination

In 1980, Linda Ronstadt's album "Mad Love" achieved significant success, entering the Billboard Album Chart in the Top Five during its first week and climbing to the number 3 position, while also earning Ronstadt a Grammy Award nomination for Best Rock Vocal Performance/Female.

1980: Rehearsals for The Pirates of Penzance

In the summer of 1980, Linda Ronstadt began rehearsals for her first lead in a Broadway musical, Joseph Papp's production of Gilbert and Sullivan's "The Pirates of Penzance," alongside Kevin Kline. Ronstadt felt it was a natural fit for her, referencing her grandfather's musical background.

January 8, 1981: The Pirates of Penzance Opens on Broadway

On January 8, 1981, "The Pirates of Penzance" opened on Broadway to great success after a limited engagement in Central Park, running until November 28, 1982. The musical garnered critical acclaim for Ronstadt's performance.

1981: Keeping Out of Mischief Album Scrapped

In 1981, Linda Ronstadt produced and recorded an album of pop standards titled "Keeping Out of Mischief" with Jerry Wexler. However, she scrapped the project due to her dissatisfaction with the result.

1981: Brother Peter Becomes Tucson Police Chief

In 1981, Linda Ronstadt's brother, Peter, became the chief of police in Tucson, Arizona.

November 25, 1982: "Happy Thanksgiving Day" Concert Broadcast

On November 25, 1982, Linda Ronstadt held her "Happy Thanksgiving Day" concert at the Reunion Arena in Dallas, which was broadcast live via satellite to NBC radio stations across the United States.

November 28, 1982: The Pirates of Penzance Closes on Broadway

On November 28, 1982, The Pirates of Penzance closed on Broadway after a successful run that began on January 8, 1981.

1982: Release of Get Closer Album

In 1982, Linda Ronstadt released the album "Get Closer", a mix of rock, country, and pop. While not officially certified platinum between 1975 and 1990, it still produced Top 40 hits and earned Ronstadt two Grammy nominations.

September 1983: Release of What's New Album

In September 1983, Linda Ronstadt released "What's New," her album with Nelson Riddle, which faced some initial skepticism but became a major hit, spending 81 weeks on the Billboard Album Chart and earning a Grammy nomination.

1983: Ronstadt's Estimated Worth

By 1983, Linda Ronstadt's estimated worth was over $40 million, primarily from record sales, concerts, and merchandising.

1983: Continued Platinum Album Success

From 1983 to 1990, Linda Ronstadt continued her streak of platinum albums, further solidifying her success and impact in the music industry.

1983: Collaboration with Nelson Riddle Begins

In 1983, Linda Ronstadt began collaborating with conductor Nelson Riddle, embarking on an unorthodox approach to recording traditional pop albums from the Great American Songbook.

1983: Dated Jim Carrey

In 1983, Linda Ronstadt dated comedian Jim Carrey for eight months.

1983: Release of What's New

In 1983, Linda Ronstadt released her album What's New, which became one of her biggest-selling studio albums to date and was certified by the Recording Industry Association of America for over three million copies sold.

1983: What's New Rehabilitates Nelson Riddle's Career

In 1983, Linda Ronstadt's album "What's New" helped rehabilitate Nelson Riddle's career, bringing his work to a younger audience and marking the best attempt to revive American pop standards before Beatlemania.

1983: Film version of The Pirates of Penzance

In 1983, Ronstadt starred alongside Kevin Kline and Angela Lansbury in the film version of "The Pirates of Penzance", earning a Golden Globe nomination. It was her only acting role in a motion picture.

1983: "Easy For You To Say" Top 10 Hit

In the spring of 1983, Linda Ronstadt's recording of the Jimmy Webb song "Easy For You To Say" became a Top 10 Adult Contemporary hit.

1983: Start of Additional Platinum Albums

Starting in 1983 through 1990, Linda Ronstadt achieved six additional platinum albums, solidifying her commercial and critical success.

1984: Ronstadt and Riddle Concert Tour

In 1984, Linda Ronstadt and Nelson Riddle performed songs from their albums live in concert halls across Australia, Japan, and the United States, including multi-night performances at Carnegie Hall, Radio City Music Hall, and Pine Knob.

1984: Release of Lush Life Album

In 1984, Linda Ronstadt released Lush Life, her second album with Nelson Riddle. By 2010 the album had sold 1.7 million copies in the U.S.

1984: Ronstadt's La bohème Production

In 1984, Linda Ronstadt starred in a production of La bohème at Joseph Papp's Public Theater, fulfilling a childhood dream. However, the production was a critical and commercial failure, closing after only a few nights.

April 1985: DownBeat Interview on Pop Standards Album

In an April 1985 interview with DownBeat, Linda Ronstadt discussed the appeal of pop standards music and credited Jerry Wexler for encouraging her to pursue that type of album, despite Elektra's initial reluctance.

January 1986: Trio Album Recording Begins

In January 1986, Linda Ronstadt, Dolly Parton, and Emmylou Harris began recording their Trio album in the studio.

1986: Release of For Sentimental Reasons Album

In 1986, Linda Ronstadt released For Sentimental Reasons, her third album with Nelson Riddle. By 2010 the album had sold 1.3 million copies in the U.S.

1986: Criticism for Graceland album

In 1986, Paul Simon was criticised for including Linda Ronstadt on his album "Graceland", recorded in South Africa, but defended her stating her intention was never to support the government there.

March 1987: Release of Trio Album

In March 1987, Linda Ronstadt, Dolly Parton, and Emmylou Harris released the "Trio" album, which became a major hit, holding the number 1 position on Billboard's Country Albums chart and winning a Grammy Award.

1987: Release of Canciones de Mi Padre Album

In 1987, Linda Ronstadt released "Canciones de Mi Padre", an album of traditional Mexican folk songs.

1987: Release of "Somewhere Out There"

In 1987, Ronstadt returned to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart with "Somewhere Out There", a duet with James Ingram featured in the animated film "An American Tail", which won a Grammy Award for Song of the Year.

1988: End of Engagement with George Lucas

In 1988, Linda Ronstadt ended her engagement to Star Wars director and creator George Lucas, which began at the end of 1983.

1988: Broadway Return with Canciones De Mi Padre

In 1988, Linda Ronstadt returned to Broadway for a limited engagement in a musical show adaptation of her album "Canciones De Mi Padre – A Romantic Evening in Old Mexico."

1989: Release of Cry Like A Rainstorm, Howl Like The Wind

In 1989, Linda Ronstadt released Cry Like A Rainstorm, Howl Like The Wind, which became one of her biggest-selling studio albums to date. It was certified by the Recording Industry Association of America for over three million copies sold.

1989: Duets with Aaron Neville

In 1989, Ronstadt included New Orleans soul singer Aaron Neville on several of the album's songs, including the duets "Don't Know Much" and "All My Life", both of which were long-running number 1 Adult Contemporary hits and earned several Grammy Award nominations.

December 1990: Adoption of Daughter

In December 1990, Linda Ronstadt adopted an infant daughter, Mary Clementine Ronstadt.

December 1990: Participation in John Lennon's 50th birthday concert

In December 1990, Ronstadt participated in a concert held at the Tokyo Dome to commemorate John Lennon's 50th birthday and to raise awareness of environmental issues.

1990: Continued Platinum Album Success

From 1983 to 1990, Linda Ronstadt continued her streak of platinum albums, further solidifying her success and impact in the music industry.

1990: Grammy Award for Best Pop Vocal Performance

In 1990, Ronstadt and Aaron Neville won the Best Pop Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal Grammy Award. It was also Ronstadt's last known live Grammy Award appearance when she and Neville performed "Don't Know Much" together on the telecast.

1990: End of Platinum Album Streak

Linda Ronstadt's streak of platinum certified albums, which started in 1975, ended in 1990, Get Closer being the only album in between not to get the certification.

1990: End of Additional Platinum Albums

Linda Ronstadt's successful run of additional platinum albums ended in 1990, with six being released since 1983.

1991: Brother Peter's Tenure Ends as Tucson Police Chief

In 1991, Peter Ronstadt's tenure as the chief of police in Tucson ended.

1991: Acted in La Pastorela

In 1991, Ronstadt played the lead role of archangel San Miguel in "La Pastorela, or A Shephard's Tale", a musical filmed at San Juan Bautista and directed by Luis Valdez.

1991: Release of Mas Canciones

In 1991, Ronstadt released "Mas Canciones," a follow-up to "Canciones De Mi Padre", and won a Grammy Award for Best Mexican/Mexican-American Album for it.

1991: Release of "Dreams to Dream"

In 1991, Steven Spielberg asked Ronstadt to record the theme song "Dreams to Dream" for the animated sequel "An American Tail: Fievel Goes West".

1991: Dedication of Transit Terminal to Grandfather

In 1991, the City of Tucson opened its central transit terminal on March 16 and dedicated it to Linda Ronstadt's grandfather, Federico José María Ronstadt, recognizing his contributions to the city.

1993: Release of Winter Light album

In 1993, Ronstadt released the highly acclaimed "Winter Light" album, which included New Age arrangements and the self-penned title track, but became her first commercial failure since 1972.

1994: Adoption of Son

In 1994, Linda Ronstadt adopted a baby boy, Carlos Ronstadt.

1994: Trio II Album Recorded

In 1994, Linda Ronstadt, Dolly Parton and Emmylou Harris originally recorded the Trio II Album, which they would end up releasing in 1999.

1994: Aborted Trio Follow-Up Recording

In 1994, Linda Ronstadt, Dolly Parton, and Emmylou Harris recorded a follow-up to Trio, but conflicting schedules delayed the release. Ronstadt eventually released some of the recordings on her 1995 album "Feels Like Home".

1995: Feels Like Home Album Release

In 1995, Linda Ronstadt released her album "Feels Like Home", which included recordings from the aborted Trio follow-up from 1994.

1995: Release of Feels Like Home album

In 1995, Ronstadt released "Feels Like Home", a return to country-rock, including her version of Tom Petty's "The Waiting".

1996: Release of Dedicated to the One I Love

In 1996, Ronstadt released "Dedicated to the One I Love", an album of classic rock and roll songs reinvented as lullabies, which won the Grammy Award for Best Musical Album for Children.

1997: Moved Back to Tucson

In 1997, Linda Ronstadt sold her home in San Francisco and moved back to her hometown of Tucson, Arizona, to raise her two children.

1998: Release of We Ran

In 1998, Ronstadt released "We Ran", her first album in over two years, which harkened back to her country-rock and folk-rock heyday but was a commercial failure.

1998: Ronstadt discusses her musical influences in an interview

In a 1998 interview at her Tucson home, Linda Ronstadt discussed the influences of mariachi music from her father's side and Nelson Riddle's arrangements from her mother's side on her musical style, emphasizing the need to reconcile both aspects to define her identity.

1999: Produced Grammy Award-winning Trio II

In 1999, Linda Ronstadt produced the Grammy Award-winning Trio II.

1999: VH1's 100 Greatest Women of Rock & Roll

In 1999, Linda Ronstadt ranked number 21 in VH1's 100 Greatest Women of Rock & Roll.

1999: Release of Trio II Album

In 1999, Linda Ronstadt, Dolly Parton, and Emmylou Harris released the "Trio II" album, which was originally recorded in 1994. The album was certified Gold and won a Grammy Award.

1999: Performance at Staples Center's New Year's Eve celebration

In 1999, Ronstadt performed with the Eagles and Jackson Browne at Staples Center's New Year's Eve celebration.

1999: Release of Western Wall: The Tucson Sessions

In 1999, Ronstadt released "Western Wall: The Tucson Sessions," a folk-rock project with Emmylou Harris, which earned a Grammy nomination and made the Top 10 of Billboard's Country Albums chart.

2000: Reduced Activity Due to Voice Deterioration

After 2000, Linda Ronstadt reduced her activity as she felt her singing voice deteriorating.

2000: Praise for Wes Jackson

In 2000, Linda Ronstadt stated that "the work (Wes Jackson)'s doing right now is the most important work there is in the (United States)".

2000: Release of A Merry Little Christmas

In 2000, Ronstadt completed her Elektra/Asylum contract with the release of "A Merry Little Christmas", her first holiday collection, which includes a rare duet with Rosemary Clooney.

2001: Greatest Hits Certified

As of 2001, Linda Ronstadt's 1976 compilation album Greatest Hits was certified for over seven million units sold.

2001: Canciones de Mi Padre certified double-platinum

In 2001, "Canciones de Mi Padre" was certified double-platinum by the RIAA for shipments of over 2 million copies in the United States, becoming the best-selling non-English-language album in U.S. music history.

2001: "Greatest Hits" certified seven-times platinum

In 2001, Linda Ronstadt's 1976 "Greatest Hits" album was certified seven-times platinum by the RIAA, reflecting over seven million U.S. copies sold.

2001: RIAA Certification

In 2001, Linda Ronstadt's U.S. album sales were certified by the Recording Industry Association of America at over 30 million albums sold.

2002: The Very Best Of Linda Ronstadt Included in Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Albums

In 2002, The Very Best Of Linda Ronstadt was included in Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Albums of All Time at number 324.

July 17, 2004: Fahrenheit 9/11 Dedication

On July 17, 2004, Linda Ronstadt praised Fahrenheit 9/11, Michael Moore's documentary film about the Iraq War, and dedicated the song "Desperado" to Moore during a performance in Las Vegas, leading to mixed reactions from the audience.

2004: Recognition of Ronstadt's vocal talent

In 2004, Christopher Loudon of Jazz Times wrote that Linda Ronstadt possesses "arguably the most sterling set of pipes of her generation,", highlighting her exceptional vocal abilities.

2004: Ronstadt discusses Time cover image on CBS This Morning

In 2004, Linda Ronstadt discussed her discomfort with the image portrayed on the 1977 Time magazine cover during an interview on CBS This Morning, stating that the image was not a true representation of her.

2004: Release of Hummin' to Myself Album

In 2004, Linda Ronstadt released "Hummin' to Myself," her album for Verve Records, marking her return to traditional jazz with an intimate jazz combo. It reached number 2 on Billboard's Top Jazz Albums chart.

2004: Final Solo Album Release

In 2004, Linda Ronstadt released her final solo album.

2004: Wrote Foreword to Book

In 2004, Linda Ronstadt wrote the foreword to the book The NPR Curious Listener's Guide to American Folk Music.

2004: Cancellation of Engagements

In 2004, following the Aladdin incident where Linda Ronstadt praised Michael Moore, many friends of Ronstadt's, including the Eagles, immediately cancelled their engagements at the Aladdin.

2005: Wrote Introduction to Book

In 2005, Linda Ronstadt wrote the introduction to the book Classic Ferrington Guitars.

2006: Final Collaborative Album Release

In 2006, Linda Ronstadt released her final collaborative album.

2006: Release of Adieu False Heart

In 2006, Ronstadt teamed with Ann Savoy to record "Adieu False Heart" as the ZoZo Sisters, an album of roots music, but it was a commercial failure.

2006: Comments on George Bush

In 2006, at a concert in Canada, Linda Ronstadt criticized George Bush, stating she was "embarrassed George Bush (was) from the United States." Her remarks drew international headlines.

2006: Continued Support for Moore

Throughout her 2004 and 2006 summer concerts across North America, Linda Ronstadt continued to express her praise for Michael Moore and his film, despite mixed public response.

August 14, 2007: Comments on Outspoken Views

On August 14, 2007, Linda Ronstadt commented on all her well-publicized, outspoken views, in particular the Aladdin incident, noting, "If I had it to do over I would be much more gracious to everyone ... you can be as outspoken as you want if you are very, very respectful. Show some grace".

August 2007: Dedication to Wes Jackson

In August 2007, Linda Ronstadt dedicated the rock anthem "Desperado" to Wes Jackson, whom she admires, at a concert in Kansas City, Kansas.

August 2007: Headlined Newport Folk Festival

In August 2007, Ronstadt headlined the Newport Folk Festival, incorporating jazz, rock, and folk music into her repertoire; it was one of her final concerts.

September 23, 2007: Inducted into Arizona Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame

On September 23, 2007, Linda Ronstadt was inducted into the Arizona Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame, along with Stevie Nicks, Buck Owens, and filmmaker Steven Spielberg.

2007: Criticism of Tucson City Council

In 2007, Linda Ronstadt drew criticism and praise from Tucsonans for commenting that local city council's failings, developers' strip mall mentality, greed and growing dust problem had rendered the city unrecognizable and poorly developed.

2007: Contribution to We All Love Ella

In 2007, Ronstadt contributed the track "Miss Otis Regrets" to the compilation album "We All Love Ella: Celebrating the First Lady of Song", a tribute to Ella Fitzgerald.

2007: Ronstadt reflects on singing with Aaron Neville

In 2007, Ronstadt reflected on singing with Aaron Neville and stated that she could get things out of her voice that she couldn't do by herself.

August 17, 2008: Received Trailblazer Award

On August 17, 2008, Linda Ronstadt received a tribute by various artists and was honored with the Trailblazer Award, presented to her by Plácido Domingo at the 2008 ALMA Awards.

2008: Appointed Artistic Director

In 2008, Linda Ronstadt was appointed artistic director of the San José Mariachi and Mexican Heritage Festival.

2008: Deletion of We Ran album

In 2008, the album "We Ran" was deleted.

March 31, 2009: Testimony to Congress

On March 31, 2009, Linda Ronstadt spoke to the United States Congress House Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior, Environment & Related Agencies, attempting to convince lawmakers to budget $200 million in the 2010 fiscal year for the National Endowment of the Arts.

May 2009: Honorary Doctorate

In May 2009, Linda Ronstadt received an honorary doctorate of music degree from the Berklee College of Music for her achievements and influence in music and her contributions to American and international culture.

August 2009: Champions Gay Rights

In August 2009, Linda Ronstadt championed gay rights and same-sex marriage, stating "homophobia is anti-family values. Period, end of story."

2009: Final Live Concert

In 2009, Linda Ronstadt performed her final live concert.

2009: Martin Guitar Model

In 2009, the Martin Guitar Company created a 00-42 model Linda Ronstadt Limited Edition acoustic guitar, and Linda Ronstadt appointed the Land Institute as recipient of all proceeds from her signature guitar.

January 16, 2010: National Day of Action

On January 16, 2010, Linda Ronstadt converged with thousands of other activists in a "National Day of Action". Ronstadt stated that her "dog in the fight" – as a native Arizonan and coming from a law enforcement family – was the treatment of illegal aliens and Arizona's enforcement of its illegal immigrant law.

April 29, 2010: Campaign Against Arizona's Illegal Immigration Law

On April 29, 2010, Linda Ronstadt began a campaign, including joining a lawsuit, against Arizona's new illegal-immigration law SB 1070 calling it a "devastating blow to law enforcement ... the police don't protect us in a democracy with brute force", something she said she learned from her brother, Peter, who was Chief of Police in Tucson.

2010: Sales Figures for Hummin' to Myself

As of 2010, Linda Ronstadt's album "Hummin' To Myself" had sold over 75,000 copies in the U.S., achieving some critical acclaim.

2010: Sales figures for What's New, Lush Life and For Sentimental Reasons

By 2010, Linda Ronstadt's albums with Nelson Riddle, including "What's New", "Lush Life", and "For Sentimental Reasons", had collectively sold nearly seven million copies in the U.S.

2010: Advocated for NEA Funding

In 2010, Linda Ronstadt attempted to convince lawmakers to budget $200 million in the 2010 fiscal year for the National Endowment of the Arts.

2010: Collaboration with The Chieftains

In 2010, Ronstadt contributed the arrangement and lead vocal to "A La Orilla de un Palmar" on The Chieftains' studio album "San Patricio".

September 6, 2011: Release of Buddy Holly Tribute CD

On September 6, 2011, the tribute CD "Listen to Me: Buddy Holly" was released, which included Linda Ronstadt's 1976 version of Buddy Holly's "That'll Be The Day".

2011: Retirement Announcement and Diagnosis

In 2011, Linda Ronstadt announced her retirement and revealed she could no longer sing due to a degenerative condition, initially diagnosed as Parkinson's disease but later determined to be progressive supranuclear palsy.

2011: Latin Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award

In 2011, Linda Ronstadt was awarded the Latin Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award by the Latin Recording Academy, recognizing her significant contributions to music.

2011: Announcement of Retirement

In 2011, Ronstadt announced her retirement in an interview with the Arizona Daily Star.

2011: Retirement

Linda Ronstadt continued to tour, collaborate, and record albums until her retirement in 2011.

December 2012: Diagnosis of Parkinson's disease

In December 2012, Linda Ronstadt was initially diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, which was later re-evaluated as progressive supranuclear palsy and caused her to lose her singing ability.

2012: The Very Best Of Linda Ronstadt's Ranking Increased

In 2012, Rolling Stone revised their list of the 500 Greatest Albums of All Time and kept only the compilation album The Very Best Of Linda Ronstadt, but raised it to the place once occupied by Heart Like a Wheel.

August 2013: Parkinson's Disease Diagnosis

In August 2013, Linda Ronstadt revealed she was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, leaving her unable to sing due to loss of muscular control.

August 2013: Revelation of Parkinson's Disease Diagnosis

In August 2013, Ronstadt revealed to Alanna Nash that she had Parkinson's disease and could no longer sing.

September 2013: Publication of Autobiography

In September 2013, Linda Ronstadt published her autobiography, "Simple Dreams: A Musical Memoir."

2013: Sales of Canciones De Mi Padre

As of 2013, Linda Ronstadt's 1987 all-Spanish album Canciones De Mi Padre had sold over 2 1/2 million U.S. copies.

2013: Published Autobiography

In 2013, Linda Ronstadt published her autobiography, Simple Dreams: A Musical Memoir, as well as the Spanish version, Sueños Sencillos – Memorias Musicales.

April 10, 2014: Induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

On April 10, 2014, Ronstadt was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

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 place as a legendary figure in rock music history.

July 28, 2014: National Medal of Arts and Humanities

On July 28, 2014, Linda Ronstadt was awarded the National Medal of Arts and Humanities, recognizing her significant contributions to American arts and culture.

December 2016: Western Wall sales figures updated

As of December 2016, "Western Wall: The Tucson Sessions" has sold 223,255 copies per Nielsen SoundScan.

2016: Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award

In 2016, Linda Ronstadt received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award from the Recording Academy, honoring her enduring impact and achievements in the music industry.

February 2019: Release of first official live album

In February 2019, Linda Ronstadt's first official live album, a partial soundtrack from a 1980 HBO special, was released.

July 2019: Selected as a Kennedy Center Honoree

In July 2019, Ronstadt was selected as a Kennedy Center Honoree.

2019: Ronstadt's Chart Successes as of 2019

As of 2019, Ronstadt had earned significant chart success, including number-one pop and country albums, top-ten pop albums, and charting pop albums, along with numerous hit singles across various Billboard charts.

2019: Hollywood Walk of Fame Star and Kennedy Center Honors

In 2019, Linda Ronstadt received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame jointly with Dolly Parton and Emmylou Harris for their work as the group Trio. In the same year, she was also among the honorees who received the Kennedy Center Honors for lifetime artistic achievements.

2019: Documentary Release

In 2019, a documentary based on Linda Ronstadt's memoirs, titled "Linda Ronstadt: The Sound of My Voice," was released.

2019: Revised Diagnosis

In late 2019, it was reported that Linda Ronstadt's doctors had revised their diagnosis to progressive supranuclear palsy, a degenerative disease commonly mistaken for Parkinson's.