About the song
Linda Ronstadt, the songbird of the 70s, known for her crystalline vocals and genre-bending versatility, delivered a powerhouse performance with “Hurt So Bad.” Released in 1980 as part of her album Mad Love, this track showcased Ronstadt’s ability to infuse rock and roll with raw emotion and a touch of new wave sensibility. While she was already a celebrated artist with hits like “You’re No Good” and “When Will I Be Loved,” “Hurt So Bad” allowed Ronstadt to explore a new depth of vulnerability, solidifying her place as a true musical chameleon.
Originally penned by Teddy Randazzo, Bobby Weinstein, and Bobby Hart, the song had already seen success with Little Anthony and the Imperials in the 60s. However, Ronstadt breathed new life into the track, stripping away some of the doo-wop sweetness and injecting it with a yearning, almost desperate quality that resonated with audiences navigating the complexities of love and loss in the dawn of the 80s.
What makes Ronstadt’s rendition so captivating is the way she navigates the emotional landscape of the song. Her voice, a blend of power and fragility, perfectly captures the rawness of heartbreak. The soaring vocals, coupled with the driving rhythm section and Danny Kortchmar’s poignant guitar solo, create a sonic tapestry that is both melancholic and exhilarating.
“Hurt So Bad” is not merely a song; it’s an experience. It’s a testament to Ronstadt’s artistry, her ability to transcend genres and connect with listeners on a deeply personal level. As you delve into this timeless classic, prepare to be transported back to an era where raw emotion and musical virtuosity reigned supreme. Let the power of Ronstadt’s voice and the poignant lyrics wash over you, and rediscover the magic of a song that continues to resonate with music lovers across generations.
Video
Lyrics
I know you
Don’t know what I’m going through
Standing here looking at you
Well let me tell you that it hurts so bad
It makes me feel so sad
It makes me hurt so bad to see you again
Like needles and pins
People say, “You’ve been making out okay
He’s in love, don’t stand in his way”
Well let me tell you that it hurts so bad
It makes me feel so sad
It’s gonna hurt so bad if you walk away
Why don’t you stay and let me make it up to you?
I’ll do anything you want me to
You loved me before, please love me again
I can’t let you go back to her
Please don’t go
Please don’t go
Please don’t go
Please don’t go
Hurt so bad
Come back it hurts so bad
Don’t make it hurt so bad
I’m begging you please
Oh oh oh
Come back it hurts so bad
Come back it hurts so bad
I’m begging you please
Oh! No!
No!