About the song
Linda Ronstadt’s rendition of “That’ll Be the Day” is a standout track from her 1976 Grammy Award-winning album, *Hasten Down the Wind*. Produced by Peter Asher and released by Asylum Records, this album not only showcased Ronstadt’s versatile vocal prowess but also solidified her status as a leading figure in the rock and country music scenes of the 1970s.
Originally a hit for Buddy Holly and the Crickets in 1957, “That’ll Be the Day” was reinterpreted by Ronstadt with her unique style. Her version brought a fresh, yet nostalgic feel to the classic song. The track became a significant hit, reaching number 11 on both the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 and the Cash Box Top 100 charts. Additionally, it climbed to number 27 on the Billboard Country Singles chart, reflecting its broad appeal across different music genres.
In Canada, Ronstadt’s version of “That’ll Be the Day” was even more successful, peaking at number 2 on the singles chart and becoming the 35th biggest hit of 1976. The song’s popularity also extended to the adult contemporary charts in both the United States and Canada, demonstrating its wide-ranging impact and Ronstadt’s cross-genre appeal.
“That’ll Be the Day” was later included on the album *Linda Ronstadt’s Greatest Hits* (1976), further cementing its status as one of her signature songs. The track’s enduring appeal was highlighted once again when it was featured on the 2011 tribute album, *Listen to Me: Buddy Holly*, which honored the legacy of the original artist.
*Hasten Down the Wind* was a pivotal album in Ronstadt’s career. It showcased her ability to infuse rock and country music with emotional depth and vocal strength. The album’s success, highlighted by the popularity of “That’ll Be the Day,” earned Ronstadt a Grammy Award and helped her achieve platinum status, signifying over a million copies sold.
For an older and educated audience, Linda Ronstadt’s interpretation of “That’ll Be the Day” is a beautiful blend of reverence for the original and her distinctive musical style. The song’s success across various charts underscores its timeless appeal and Ronstadt’s exceptional talent in bringing classic hits to new generations of listeners.
In revisiting “That’ll Be the Day,” one can appreciate Linda Ronstadt’s contribution to the preservation and evolution of classic rock and country music. Her ability to breathe new life into a beloved song while maintaining its original charm is a testament to her artistry and the lasting impact of her music.
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Lyrics
Well that’ll be the day
When you say goodbye
That’ll be the day
When you make me cry
You say you’re gonna leave
You know it’s a lie
Cause that’ll be the day that I dieWell that’ll be the day
When you say goodbye
That’ll be the day
When you make me cry
You say you’re gonna leave
You know it’s a lie
Cause that’ll be the day that I dieWell you gave me all your loving
And your turtle doving
All your hugs and kisses
And your money too
You know you love me baby
Still you tell me baby
That someday when I’ll be trueWell that’ll be the day
When you say goodbye
That’ll be the day
When you make me cry
You say you’re gonna leave me
You know it’s a lie
Cause that’ll be the day that I dieWhen Cupid shot his dart
He shot it at your heart
So if we ever part then I’ll be blue
You kiss and hold me
And you tell me boldy
Well that someday that I’ll be trueWell that’ll be the day
When you say goodbye
That’ll be the day
When you make me cry
You say you’re gonna leave me
You know it’s a lie
Cause that’ll be the day that I dieAh that’ll be the day wooh-ooh-ooh
That’ll be the day woo-ooh-ooh
That’ll be the day woo-ooh-ooh
That’ll be the day when I die