About the song
Linda Ronstadt’s rendition of “Desperado” is a classic piece of music that has resonated with audiences for decades. This haunting ballad, penned by Don Henley and Glenn Frey of the Eagles, was originally featured on Ronstadt’s 1973 album, Don’t Cry Now. Her soulful vocals and the song’s evocative lyrics have solidified its place in the annals of country rock.
The song tells the tale of a weary gunslinger, a “desperado” who has lived a life on the edge. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man haunted by his past and uncertain about his future. Henley’s lyrics are filled with imagery of the American West, conjuring up visions of dusty towns, lonely highways, and the harsh realities of life on the frontier.
Ronstadt’s interpretation of “Desperado” is particularly noteworthy. Her voice is both powerful and delicate, perfectly capturing the song’s melancholic tone. The arrangement, featuring a simple piano accompaniment, allows Ronstadt’s vocals to take center stage, emphasizing the song’s emotional depth. The combination of Ronstadt’s expressive delivery and the song’s poignant lyrics creates a truly unforgettable listening experience.
One of the reasons why “Desperado” has endured for so long is its universal themes. The song explores the human condition, touching on issues such as loneliness, regret, and the search for meaning. The “desperado” can be seen as a metaphor for anyone who has ever felt lost or alone. These timeless themes have allowed the song to connect with listeners from different generations and walks of life.
The song’s popularity has also been helped by its numerous covers and appearances in film and television. Artists as diverse as Neil Young, The Eagles, and The War on Drugs have all recorded their own versions of “Desperado.” The song has also been featured in several films and TV shows, further solidifying its status as a cultural touchstone.
In conclusion, Linda Ronstadt’s “Desperado” is a masterpiece of country rock. The song’s timeless themes, combined with Ronstadt’s soulful vocals, have made it a beloved classic. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Ronstadt or new to her music, “Desperado” is a must-listen.
Video
Lyrics
Desperado, why don’t you come to your senses?
You been out ridin’ fences for so long now
Oh, you’re a hard one
But I know that you’ve got your reasons
These things that are pleasin’ you
Can hurt you somehow
Don’t you draw the queen of diamonds, boy
She’ll beat you if she’s able
Know the queen of hearts is always your best bet
Well, it seems to me, some fine things
Have been laid upon your table
But you only want the things that you can’t get
Desperado, you know you ain’t gettin’ no younger
Your pain and your hunger, drivin’ you home
And freedom, oh freedom
Well, that’s just some people talkin’
Your prison is walking
Through this world all alone
And don’t your feet get cold in the winter time?
The sky won’t snow, and the sun won’t shine
It’s hard to tell the night-time from the day
You’re losin’ all your highs and lows
Ain’t it funny how the feelin’ goes away?
Desperado, why don’t you come to your senses?
Come down from your fences, open the gate
It may be rainin’, but there’s a rainbow above you
You better let somebody love you (let somebody love you)
Let somebody love you, before it’s too late