Album Info
| Artist: | Linda Ronstadt & The Nelson Riddle Orchestra |
| Album: | What's New |
| Released: | Australia, Sept 1983 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | What's New | 3:55 |
| Written-By - Bob Haggart, Johnny Burke | ||
| A2 | I've Got A Crush On You | 3:28 |
| Trumpet, Soloist - Anthony Terran | ||
| Written-By - George Gershwin, Ira Gershwin | ||
| A3 | Guess I'll Hang My Tears Out To Dry | 4:13 |
| Written-By - Sammy Cahn & Jules Styne | ||
| A4 | Crazy He Calls Me | 3:33 |
| Saxophone, Soloist - Plas Johnson | ||
| Written-By - Carl Sigman, Sidney Keith Russell | ||
| A5 | Someone To Watch Over Me | 4:09 |
| Bass - James Hughart | ||
| Guitar - Dennis Budimir | ||
| Written-By - George Gershwin, Ira Gershwin | ||
| B1 | I Don't Stand A Ghost Of A Chance With You | 4:06 |
| Saxophone, Soloist - Bob Cooper | ||
| Written-By - Bing Crosby, Ned Washington, Victor Young | ||
| B2 | What'll I Do | 4:06 |
| Bass - James Hughart | ||
| Guitar - Dennis Budimir | ||
| Saxophone, Soloist - Bob Cooper | ||
| Written-By - Irving Berlin | ||
| B3 | Lover Man (Oh Where Can You Be) | 4:18 |
| Trombone, Soloist - Chauncey Welsch | ||
| Written-By - Jimmy Davis, Jimmy Sherman, Roger "Ram" Ramirez | ||
| B4 | Good-bye | 4:47 |
| Written-By - Gordon Jenkins |
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Description
Linda Ronstadt's album "What's New," released on September 24, 1983, is a stunning collaboration with the legendary Nelson Riddle Orchestra that beautifully marries pop and orchestral arrangements with Ronstadt's powerful vocals. This album is not just a collection of songs; it’s a heartfelt homage to the classic standards of the Great American Songbook, and it showcases Ronstadt's ability to breathe new life into timeless music.
From the moment you press play, you’re enveloped in lush orchestration and Ronstadt's rich, emotive voice. The album opens with the title track, "What's New," a hauntingly beautiful ballad that sets the tone for the entire record. Ronstadt's interpretation of this classic is both nostalgic and fresh, capturing the essence of longing and love that the lyrics convey. The arrangement by Riddle, who was known for his work with Frank Sinatra and Ella Fitzgerald, adds a layer of sophistication that elevates the listening experience.
One of the standout tracks on the album is "Someone to Watch Over Me." Ronstadt's delivery is simply exquisite, and you can feel the depth of emotion in every note. The orchestration complements her voice perfectly, creating a dreamy atmosphere that transports you to another time. Critics have praised her ability to convey vulnerability and strength simultaneously, and this track is a prime example of that talent.
The album also features other classics like "I Don't Stand a Ghost of a Chance with You" and "I've Got a Crush on You," both of which showcase Ronstadt's versatility as an artist. She effortlessly navigates the emotional landscapes of these songs, making them her own while respecting their origins. The production quality is top-notch, with Riddle's arrangements providing a lush backdrop that enhances Ronstadt's vocal prowess.
"What's New" was not only a commercial success but also received critical acclaim. It was nominated for several Grammy Awards, including Best Pop Vocal Performance, Female, and Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album. The album reached No. 3 on the Billboard 200 chart and was certified Platinum by the RIAA, a testament to its widespread appeal and Ronstadt's star power.
The collaboration between Ronstadt and Riddle is particularly noteworthy, as it marked a significant moment in both of their careers. Riddle, who had been a prominent figure in the music industry for decades, found a new audience through this partnership, while Ronstadt was able to explore a different musical direction that showcased her vocal range and artistry. Their chemistry is palpable throughout the album, and it’s clear that both artists were deeply invested in the project.
Interestingly, Ronstadt has mentioned in interviews that she grew up listening to the standards that Riddle had arranged, which made this collaboration feel like a natural progression in her career. She has expressed her admiration for Riddle, calling him a genius and noting how his arrangements brought out the best in her voice. This mutual respect and admiration shine through in the final product, making "What's New" a truly special album.
The album's cultural significance cannot be overstated. At a time when pop music was dominated by synthesizers and new wave sounds, Ronstadt's return to classic standards was a refreshing change. It paved the way for a resurgence of interest in traditional pop music and inspired a new generation of artists to explore the genre. Ronstadt's ability to connect with the emotional core of these songs resonated with listeners, proving that great music is timeless.
In conclusion, "What's New" is a remarkable album that showcases Linda Ronstadt at her best, supported by the brilliant arrangements of Nelson Riddle. It’s a beautiful blend of nostalgia and artistry that continues to resonate with fans old and new. Whether you’re a longtime admirer of Ronstadt or just discovering her music, this album is a must-listen. It’s a testament to the power of great songwriting and the magic that happens when talented artists come together to create something truly special.