About the song
“Lotta Love,” originally written and recorded by Neil Young for his 1978 album Comes a Time, took on a new life through Nicolette Larson’s iconic cover version released the same year. Larson’s rendition of the song soared to success, peaking at No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and topping the Easy Listening chart, making it a standout hit of 1979. The song’s popularity extended internationally, charting in Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, solidifying its status as a beloved soft rock classic.
The backstory of how Larson came to record “Lotta Love” adds an intriguing layer to its history. Linda Ronstadt, who had previously sung backing vocals for Young alongside Larson, suggested Larson record the song. As a gesture of gratitude, Larson’s producer reportedly installed a top-of-the-line sound system in Ronstadt’s Mercedes convertible. However, Larson recalled a different origin for the song, stating that Neil Young himself offered her the song after she discovered it on a tape in his car, underscoring the personal connection between Larson and Young during their musical collaboration.
Neil Young’s original version with Crazy Horse, recorded in 1976, showcased a more stripped-down, melancholic tone compared to Larson’s upbeat and polished rendition. Larson’s version, produced by Ted Templeman for her self-titled album “Nicolette,” featured lush arrangements including strings by Jimmie Haskell and a memorable soft rock horn riff, enhancing the song’s optimistic and groovy feel. Larson described “Lotta Love” as a positive song with a rhythmic groove that resonated widely, offering listeners a welcome break from the prevailing darker themes in music at the time.
The single release of “Lotta Love,” accompanied by an extended disco version remix, aimed to capitalize on its popularity across different musical landscapes. While the extended disco version did not significantly impact the club scene, it highlighted Larson’s versatility and the song’s enduring appeal in diverse musical contexts.
Overall, “Lotta Love” remains a testament to the songwriting prowess of Neil Young and the interpretative skill of Nicolette Larson, capturing the essence of love and optimism through its timeless melody and heartfelt lyrics. Its success both commercially and critically solidifies its place in the pantheon of classic soft rock hits, continuing to captivate audiences with its infectious charm and musical elegance.
Video
Lyrics
Lotta Love
Nicolette Larson
(Neil Young)
INTRO: La La La La La La La La La
Ooh, Ooh
It’s gonna take a lotta love
To change the way things are.
It’s gonna take a lotta love
Or we won’t get too far
So if you look in my direction
And we don’t see eye to eye,
My heart needs protection and so do I.
It’s gonna take a lotta love
To get us through the night.
It’s gonna take a lotta love
To make things work out right.
So if you are out there waitin’
I hope you show up soon,
‘Cause my heart needs relaxing not solitude
Gotta lotta love
Gotta lotta love
La La La La La La La La La
Ooh, Ooh
It’s gonna take a lotta love
To change the way things are.
It’s gonna take a lotta love
Or we won’t get too far.
It’s gonna take a lotta love
To change the way things are.
It’s gonna take a lotta love
Or we won’t get too far
Or we won’t get too far
(Repeat to fade)