Linda Ronstadt – It Doesn’t Matter Anymore

About the song

Linda Ronstadt’s “It Doesn’t Matter Anymore”: A Heartbreak Ballad with Timeless Appeal

Linda Ronstadt’s rendition of “It Doesn’t Matter Anymore” is a poignant and powerful ballad that transcends its origins as a 1950s rock and roll tune. Released in 1974 on her critically acclaimed album Heart Like a Wheel, Ronstadt’s version transformed the song into a timeless classic of heartbreak and acceptance.

A Legacy from Buddy Holly

The song was originally written and performed by Buddy Holly in 1958. Released just weeks before his tragic death in a plane crash, “It Doesn’t Matter Anymore” became a posthumous hit and a testament to Holly’s enduring influence.

Heartbreak with Dignity

The opening lines establish the tone of quiet despair: “I don’t think I can love you any more / Than I do right now, darling.” Despite the deep affection, the narrator acknowledges a shift in the relationship. The song explores the pain of heartbreak but avoids melodrama, instead opting for a dignified acceptance of the situation.

The Power of Vulnerability

Lines like “Don’t you try to stop me, if I turn and walk away / Though it breaks my heart to do it, the feeling just won’t stay” showcase the narrator’s vulnerability. They recognize the need to move on, even though it’s painful. This honesty resonates with anyone who has experienced the heartbreak of a lost love.

Effortless Vocals

Linda Ronstadt’s vocals are the centerpiece of the song. She delivers the lyrics with a breathtaking vulnerability and a touch of defiance. Her voice perfectly captures the emotional weight of the lyrics, conveying both sadness and strength.

A Signature Guitar Arrangement

One of Ronstadt’s significant contributions to the song is her signature guitar arrangement. The melancholic melody adds a new layer of depth and emotion to the song, further emphasizing the narrator’s heartache.

A Timeless Ballad

“It Doesn’t Matter Anymore” transcends the genre of pop ballad. The song’s universal themes of love, loss, and moving on resonate with listeners of all generations. Linda Ronstadt’s powerful vocals and heartfelt performance have ensured the song’s place as a classic of heartbreak and resilience.

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Lyrics

“It Doesn’t Matter Anymore”

 

There you go and baby here am I
Well you left me here so I could sit and cry
Golly gee what have you done to me
Well I guess it doesn’t matter anymore

Do you remember baby last September
How you held me tight each and every night
Oh baby how you drove me crazy
But I guess it doesn’t matter anymore

There’s no use in me a-crying
I’ve done everything now I’m sick of trying
I’ve thrown away my nights
Wasted all my days over you

Now you go your way baby and I’ll go mine
Now and forever till the end of time
I’ll find somebody new and baby
We’ll say we’re through
And you won’t matter anymore

There’s no use in me a-crying
I’ve done everything now I’m sick of trying
I’ve thrown away my nights
Wasted all my days over you

Now you go your way baby and I’ll go mine
Now and forever till the end of time
And I’ll find somebody new and baby
We’ll say we’re through
And you won’t matter anymore
No you won’t matter anymore
You won’t matter anymore