Is Hasten Down the Wind a good place to start with Linda Ronstadt?

Yes, Hasten Down the Wind is recommended as a starting point for new Linda Ronstadt listeners. A blend of introspective lyrics and lush melodies, enveloping the listener in a warm tapestry of country and folk influences. Released in 1976, Hasten Down the Wind marked Linda Ronstadt's first collaboration with producer Peter Asher, showcasing her ascent as a leading figure in country rock. Following her successful album, Heart Like a Wheel, this record further solidified her artistic identity and commercial viability in a rapidly changing music landscape.

Who is Hasten Down the Wind for?

Hasten Down the Wind works well if you're into introspective late-night reflections, emotional storytelling journeys and warm, soothing background ambiance.

How many songs are on Hasten Down the Wind?

Hasten Down the Wind has 12 tracks, running approximately 41 minutes.

Released 50 years ago

Hasten Down the Wind

Linda Ronstadt · 1976

41 min · 12 tracks · country music

A blend of introspective lyrics and lush melodies, enveloping the listener in a warm tapestry of country and folk influences.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Lose Again Start here — The opening track sets the tone with its haunting melody and reflective lyrics about heartbreak, showcasing Ronstadt's ability to convey deep emotion through her voice.
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Crazy — Originally written by Willie Nelson, Ronstadt’s rendition highlights her interpretive skills, transforming the song into a poignant ballad that resonates with vulnerability.
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Hasten Down the Wind — The title track features delicate instrumentation and an introspective narrative, encapsulating themes of longing and acceptance that permeate the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong songwriting and production, but its appeal remains largely within its genre.

What we noticed

The first three tracks feature a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the fourth track introduces a faster tempo with a rock influence.
Several tracks incorporate lush string arrangements that complement Ronstadt's vocal delivery, enhancing the emotional weight of the lyrics.
The album closes with two ballads that gradually lower the energy, creating a reflective atmosphere as it concludes.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

introspective late-night reflections
emotional storytelling journeys
warm, soothing background ambiance
steady, contemplative pacing

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Established Ronstadt's reputation in country rock and achieved significant commercial success.
Themes: heartbreak ballads· California sunsets· introspective narratives
Career context: Released in 1976, Hasten Down the Wind marked Linda Ronstadt's first collaboration with producer Peter Asher, showcasing her ascent as a leading figure in country rock. Following her successful album, Heart Like a Wheel, this record further solidified her artistic identity and commercial viability in a rapidly changing music landscape.
Stylistic neighbors: Emmylou Harris· Joni Mitchell· Carole King