Introduction
" Get Closer" is the eleventh studio album by Linda Ronstadt, an American vocalist, and songwriter who enjoyed her most substantial business success in the late 1970s and early 1980s. The album was released in September 1982 by Asylum Records. Produced by Peter Asher, "Get Closer" consists of numerous tracks that include Ronstadt exploring numerous music designs, including rock, pop, and country. Although not as commercially successful as some of her previous albums, "Get Closer" garnered vital praise for its wide variety of categories, singing efficiencies, and vibrant tune choices.
Album Background
Following the success of her previous albums, like "Heart Like a Wheel", "Simple Dreams", and "Mad Love", Linda Ronstadt decided to continue pressing her limits by exploring various music styles. She worked together with manufacturer Peter Asher and various artists, including J.D. Souther, James Taylor, and Dolly Parton, to create a varied album. "Get Closer" consists of reimagined covers of classic songs in addition to brand-new tracks written by prominent songwriters.
Track Listing and Notable Songs
" Get Closer" includes 10 tracks that cover a range of musical styles. Some of the most noteworthy songs consist of:
1. "Get Closer:" The album's upbeat and energetic title track, composed by Washington native Jonathan Carroll, showcases Ronstadt's effective vocals and the skills of her support artists.
2. "The Moon Is a Harsh Mistress:" Originally written by popular songwriter Jimmy Webb, this enchanting ballad functions Ronstadt's singing range and her psychological analysis of the poetic lyrics.
3. "I Knew You When:" A cover of the Billy Joe Royal 1965 hit, Ronstadt's variation successfully fuses pop and rock components, providing a fresh take on an old classic.
4. "Easy for You to Say:" Written by acclaimed author Randy Newman, this song acts as an example of Ronstadt's ability to make a tune her own. Her plaintive singing method blends effortlessly with the track's smooth orchestration.
5. "Sometimes You Just Can't Win:" A conventional country ballad originally performed by George Jones, Ronstadt's cover includes her distinct singing stylings and a supporting efficiency by nation legend Dolly Parton.
Industrial Performance and Critical Reception
While "Get Closer" did not attain the level of industrial success that a few of Ronstadt's past albums obtained, it still managed to reach No. 31 on the Billboard 200 chart. The title track ended up being a Top 40 hit, reaching No. 29 on the Billboard Hot 100, while "I Knew You When" peaked at No. 37.
Critically, "Get Closer" got typically favorable evaluations for its exploration of numerous music styles and Ronstadt's strong singing efficiencies. Numerous critics at the time valued her desire to experiment and diversify her sound, even if it suggested possibly alienating some fans. Music reporter Stephen Thomas Erlewine, writing for AllMusic, applauded the album as being "rich, precise, and expertly crafted".
Legacy
"Get Closer" is a necessary entry in Linda Ronstadt's storied profession, as it showcases her unique skill in analyzing a vast array of music and highlights her impressive singing range. The album, while maybe not her most commercially successful, is a testimony to her skills as a flexible singer efficient in tackling multiple music genres. To this day, "Get Closer" stays a cherished record amongst her fans and a wonderful example of the artistry and depth that identified Ronstadt's career.
Artist: Linda Ronstadt
Linda Ronstadt, born July 15, 1946 in Tucson, Arizona. Journey through her chart-topping career and inspiring activism.
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