Live in Hollywood cover

Live in Hollywood

Linda Ronstadt · 2019

48 min · 13 tracks · country music

A vibrant showcase of classic rock and pop with country-inflected melodies delivered through Ronstadt's powerful vocals.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    I Can’t Let Go Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
  • →
    Blue Bayou — This track exemplifies Ronstadt's ability to convey deep emotion, transforming a simple melody into a haunting ballad that showcases her vocal range.
  • →
    You're No Good — Ronstadt's dynamic rendition infuses the song with urgency and attitude, making it a standout performance that highlights her powerful delivery.
  • →
    Desperado — The poignant interpretation of this classic reveals Ronstadt's ability to connect deeply with the audience, delivering an introspective and heartfelt performance.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

58 /100
Treeline
Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

Ronstadt's powerful vocals shine in this live setting, though the sequencing lacks a strong narrative arc.

What we noticed

  • Several tracks include instrumental breaks that showcase the accompanying musicians, adding texture to the live performance.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

running order, pacing, length

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

  • steady mid-tempo sing-alongs
  • nostalgic trip down memory lane
  • inviting vibe for gatherings
  • powerful vocals that captivate
  • for evening relaxation

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer fast-paced listening
  • seek experimental soundscapes

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Late Career Highlight — Showcases Ronstadt's enduring legacy and vocal prowess after health struggles.
Themes
Hollywood nostalgia· 1970s vocal power
Career context
Released in 2019, 'Live in Hollywood' captures Linda Ronstadt's enduring legacy as a live performer, following her career-ending struggles with health issues. This album serves as a poignant reminder of her influence on the music industry, showcasing performances from her prime years, particularly the late 1970s and early 1980s.
Stylistic neighbors
Emmylou Harris· Joni Mitchell· Carole King

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Just One Look

    The moment shifts from yearning to acceptance as the narrator reflects on fleeting romance while maintaining a hopeful tone throughout.

    This contrast between longing and hopefulness showcases the emotional complexity of relationships, highlighting Ronstadt's nuanced storytelling ability.

Tracklist

  • 1 I Can’t Let Go Start here 3:03
  • 2 It’s So Easy 2:47
  • 3 Willin’ 3:44
  • 4 Just One Look 3:16
  • 5 Blue Bayou 4:39
  • 6 Faithless Love 4:03
  • 7 Hurt So Bad 3:37
  • 8 Poor Poor Pitiful Me 4:01
  • 9 You’re No Good 6:23
  • 10 How Do I Make You 2:59
  • 11 Back in the U.S.A. 3:32
  • 12 Desperado 4:21
  • 13 Band Introductions 2:18

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata