About the song
Linda Ronstadt, a vocal powerhouse and iconic figure in the American music scene, released “Long Long Time” in 1970 as part of her self-titled album. This poignant ballad, penned by Gary White and Mike Nesmith, quickly became a signature song for Ronstadt, showcasing her soulful voice and emotional depth.
“Long Long Time” is a timeless piece of music that resonates with listeners across generations. Its melancholic melody, coupled with Ronstadt’s heartfelt delivery, evokes a sense of longing and nostalgia. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a lost love, expressing the enduring pain of separation and the hope for reconciliation.
Ronstadt’s vocal performance is particularly noteworthy in this song. Her voice, rich and expressive, conveys the depth of emotion behind the lyrics. She effortlessly navigates the song’s dynamic range, from tender whispers to soaring crescendos, capturing the listener’s attention and drawing them into the emotional narrative.
The simplicity of the arrangement, featuring acoustic guitar and Ronstadt’s vocals, allows the song’s emotional core to shine through. The sparse instrumentation creates a sense of intimacy, inviting the listener to connect on a personal level with the song’s message.
“Long Long Time” remains a beloved classic, a testament to Linda Ronstadt’s enduring talent and the timeless appeal of heartfelt songwriting. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the song’s ability to touch the hearts of listeners and evoke a sense of longing and nostalgia.
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Lyrics
Love will abide
Take things in stride
Sounds like good advice
But there’s no one at my side
And time washes clean love’s wounds unseen
That’s what someone told me
But I don’t know what it means
‘Cause I’ve done everything I know
To try and make you mine
And I think I’m gonna love you
For a long long time
Caught in my fears
Blinking back the tears
I can’t say you hurt me
When you never let me near
And I never drew one response from you
All the while you fell all over girls you never knew
‘Cause I’ve done everything I know
To try and make you mine
And I think it’s gonna hurt me
For a long long time
Wait for the day you’ll go away
Knowing that you warned me
Of the price I’d have to pay
And life’s full of flaws
Who knows the cause?
Living in the memory of a love that never was
‘Cause I’ve done everything I know
To try and change your mind
And I think I’m gonna miss you
For a long long time
‘Cause I’ve done everything I know
To try and make you mine
And I think I’m gonna love you
For a long long time