Heart Like a Wheel
Linda Ronstadt · 1974
31 min · 10 tracks · country music
A blend of poignant ballads and upbeat melodies, showcasing Ronstadt's powerful vocal delivery across a mix of genres.
Top tracks — play these first
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You’re No Good Start here — The opening track features an infectious rhythm and showcases Ronstadt's emotive vocal style, setting the tone for the entire album.
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Faithless Love — This track highlights Ronstadt's ability to convey deep emotion through her voice, paired with poignant lyrics about heartbreak.
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When Will I Be Loved? — A cover of The Everly Brothers' classic, this song underscores Ronstadt's knack for infusing traditional songs with fresh energy and her unique vocal interpretation.
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The Dark End of the Street — This rendition of the soul classic showcases Ronstadt's versatility and ability to infuse vulnerability into her performances.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album effectively blends genres while showcasing Ronstadt's vocal strengths and maintaining a cohesive flow.
What we noticed
- Several tracks feature prominent backing harmonies that enhance Ronstadt's lead vocals, particularly in the choruses.
- The sequencing alternates between faster and slower tempos, creating a dynamic flow that maintains listener interest throughout.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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7/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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6/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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8/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Significant within its genre. 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
- steady, consistent energy levels
- heartfelt emotional reflections
- short, engaging listening sessions
- contemplative late-night vibes
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Breakthrough — This album established Ronstadt's reputation as a mainstream pop star.
- Themes
- heartbreak ballads· California country sound
- Career context
- Released on November 1, 1974, 'Heart Like a Wheel' marked Linda Ronstadt's transition from a folk-rock artist to a mainstream pop star. This album followed her breakthrough success with the self-titled release in 1970 and solidified her status as one of the leading female vocalists of the decade.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Emmylou Harris· Joni Mitchell· Carole King
Tracklist
- 1 You’re No Good Start here 3:44
- 2 It Doesn’t Matter Anymore 3:26
- 3 Faithless Love 3:15
- 4 The Dark End of the Street 3:55
- 5 Heart Like a Wheel 3:10
- 6 When Will I Be Loved? 2:04
- 7 Willin’ 3:02
- 8 I Can’t Help It (If I’m Still in Love with You) 2:46
- 9 Keep Me From Blowing Away 3:10
- 10 You Can Close Your Eyes 3:08
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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