About the song
Linda Ronstadt’s Timeless Ballad: “Long Long Time”
Linda Ronstadt, a name synonymous with the golden age of rock and pop, has left an indelible mark on the music industry. Among her vast repertoire of hits, “Long Long Time” stands as a particularly poignant and enduring ballad. Released in 1970 as part of her album Silk Purse, this song has resonated with audiences for decades, touching upon themes of love, loss, and the passage of time.
A Heartfelt Exploration of Love and Loss
“Long Long Time” is more than just a beautiful melody; it’s a deep dive into the complexities of human emotions. The lyrics, penned by Gary B. White, paint a vivid picture of a love that is both consuming and unrequited. Ronstadt’s soulful vocals convey a sense of longing and heartache that is both relatable and universal. The song’s narrative follows the protagonist as they grapple with the realization that their love is one-sided. The refrain, “I think I’m gonna love you for a long long time,” is both a declaration of devotion and a poignant acknowledgement of the pain that comes with unrequited love.
A Timeless Classic
What sets “Long Long Time” apart from other love songs is its timeless quality. The themes explored in the song are universal, making it relatable to listeners of all ages and backgrounds. The music itself is a perfect blend of country and folk, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Ronstadt’s smooth and powerful vocals complement the music beautifully, elevating the song to a truly iconic status.
A Cultural Impact
“Long Long Time” has had a significant cultural impact, transcending generations. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, each adding their own unique interpretation to the classic. In recent years, the song has gained renewed popularity thanks in part to its use in the popular video game The Last of Us. This has introduced a new generation of listeners to the beauty and simplicity of this timeless ballad.
Conclusion
“Long Long Time” is a testament to Linda Ronstadt’s enduring talent as a singer and songwriter. This heartfelt ballad continues to resonate with audiences today, proving that great music is timeless. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Ronstadt or discovering her music for the first time, “Long Long Time” is a must-listen.
Video
Lyrics
Love will abide
Take things in stride
Sounds like good advice
But there’s no one at my side
And time washes clean love’s wounds unseen
That’s what someone told me
But I don’t know what it means
‘Cause I’ve done everything I know
To try and make you mine
And I think I’m gonna love you
For a long long time
Caught in my fears
Blinking back the tears
I can’t say you hurt me
When you never let me near
And I never drew one response from you
All the while you fell all over girls you never knew
‘Cause I’ve done everything I know
To try and make you mine
And I think it’s gonna hurt me
For a long long time
Wait for the day you’ll go away
Knowing that you warned me
Of the price I’d have to pay
And life’s full of flaws
Who knows the cause?
Living in the memory of a love that never was
‘Cause I’ve done everything I know
To try and change your mind
And I think I’m gonna miss you
For a long long time
‘Cause I’ve done everything I know
To try and make you mine
And I think I’m gonna love you
For a long long time