Linda Ronstadt’s Underrated Gem: “Don’t Know Much” Falls Short of Her Own Expectations”_

_”Linda Ronstadt’s Underrated Gem: “Don’t Know Much” Falls Short of Her Own Expectations”_

Linda Ronstadt’s iconic duet with Aaron Neville, “Don’t Know Much,” may have reached the top of the charts, but the legendary singer never thought it measured up to her other classics ¹. Released in 1989, the song was a massive hit, topping the Irish Singles Chart and reaching the top 10 in several territories, including the US, where it peaked at number two on the Billboard Hot 100 ¹. Despite its success, Ronstadt believed it couldn’t compare to some of her other timeless hits.

The song, written by Barry Mann, Cynthia Weil, and Tom Snow, was originally recorded by Mann in 1980, but it was Ronstadt and Neville’s rendition that truly made it shine ¹. Their chemistry on the track earned them the 1990 Grammy Award for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal ¹. Ronstadt’s vocals, paired with Neville’s soulful voice, created a captivating ballad that resonated with listeners worldwide.

While “Don’t Know Much” may not have met Ronstadt’s lofty standards, its enduring popularity and critical acclaim suggest otherwise ¹. The song’s success can be attributed to the exceptional talent of its performers and the timeless quality of its songwriting. Whether or not Ronstadt considers it one of her best, “Don’t Know Much” remains an unforgettable addition to her impressive discography.