Album: Lush Life

Introduction
Lush Life is an album by American vocalist Linda Ronstadt, released in 1984. Produced by legendary producer and artist Peter Asher, the album is the second in a trilogy of jazz-influenced records by Ronstadt, which began with 1983's What's New and concluded with 1986's For Sentimental Reasons. In Lush Life, Ronstadt continues to explore her interest in The Great American Songbook, showcasing a selection of ageless jazz and traditional pop standards, managed by renowned arrangers Nelson Riddle and Billy Strayhorn.

Background and Recording
Linda Ronstadt had built a successful profession in the 1970s as a pop and rock singer, charting many hit songs and getting widespread recognition for her effective voice. However, she had grown weary of contemporary pop music and decided to start a brand-new musical instructions in the early 1980s. Inspired by her early direct exposure to jazz and timeless American requirements, Ronstadt partnered with Peter Asher for a series of albums revisiting these classic tunes.

The previous album, What's New, was favored by both fans and critics and effectively presented a brand-new generation of music fans to the terrific world of The Great American Songbook. Motivated by the action, Ronstadt dove even deeper into the jazz and pop standards for Lush Life, enlisting the legendary Nelson Riddle to set up and conduct the orchestral accompaniment. Riddle, known for his deal with renowned artists like Frank Sinatra and Ella Fitzgerald, brought his distinct touch to these classic tunes, producing a lavish and sentimental soundscape.

Album Content
Lush Life consists of 10 tracks, all of which highlight Ronstadt's exceptional vocal abilities and adaptability. The album opens with "When I Fall in Love", a sluggish, romantic ballad showcasing Ronstadt's ability to communicate feeling and vulnerability with her voice. Other highlights on the album include "Skylark", a wistful and dreamy performance of the Hoagy Carmichael and Johnny Mercer timeless, and "Falling in Love Again", a sultry homage to Marlene Dietrich's signature tune.

The title track, "Lush Life", is a complex and poignant tune by Billy Strayhorn, including reflective lyrics that check out styles of solitude and unrequited love. Ronstadt provides a stunning performance of this detailed and difficult piece, additional proving her expertise as a vocalist. The album closes with a heart-wrenching rendition of "You Go to My Head", leaving the listener longing for more.

Reception and Legacy
Upon its release, Lush Life got combined reviews from critics. While some applauded Ronstadt's enthusiastic effort to tackle these classic tunes and her partnership with Nelson Riddle, others felt that her pop background made her interpretations do not have the emotional depth typically related to the jazz genre. Nonetheless, the album was a business success, making a Gold certification from the RIAA and strengthening Ronstadt's place as a leading interpreter of The Great American Songbook.

In the years since its release, Lush Life has continued to be celebrated for its masterful union of Ronstadt's powerful voice, Riddle's skillful plans, and the timeless appeal of the featured tunes. The album stays a fascinating listening experience that goes beyond genre borders, offering listeners with a glimpse of the golden age of jazz and American music.