Linda Ronstadt, a powerhouse vocalist known for her versatility across genres like rock, country, light opera, and Latin music, delivered a captivating rendition of Buddy Holly’s classic “That’ll Be the Day” in 1976. Already a well-established artist by this point, Ronstadt had been steadily building her career since the late 1960s, showcasing her incredible vocal range and interpretive skills. Her ability to imbue familiar songs with fresh emotion and a contemporary edge became her signature. While Ronstadt herself has amassed a staggering array of awards throughout her career, including 11 Grammy Awards, two Academy of Country Music Awards, and an Emmy Award, her version of “That’ll Be the Day” contributed significantly to her chart success in the mid-70s.
Ronstadt’s version, infused with a rock-tinged arrangement and her signature soaring vocals, reached number 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, solidifying its place as one of her many iconic hits. The song, originally written by Buddy Holly, Jerry Allison, and Norman Petty, speaks to the confident declaration of independence following a romantic rejection. The narrator, stung by a lover’s doubt, vows to move on and prove them wrong. “That’ll be the day, when you say that you’re gonna leave me” suggests an unwavering belief in their own future success and a touch of defiant optimism.
Audience reception to Ronstadt’s “That’ll Be the Day” was overwhelmingly positive. Critics lauded her powerful vocals and the song’s energetic arrangement, noting how she transformed a classic into a rock-infused anthem. Fans particularly appreciated the song’s relatable theme of overcoming heartbreak and the sheer vibrancy of Ronstadt’s performance. The track became a staple on radio stations and a crowd-pleaser at her concerts, demonstrating her ability to connect with audiences on a deeply emotional level while delivering a memorable and undeniably catchy tune.