Today’s song is a duet by Linda Ronstadt and Aaron Neville from her 1989 album Cry Like a Rainstorm, Howl Like the Wind. Written by Tom Snow and the husband-and-wife songwriting duo Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil, this version became a massive hit. The album was certified triple platinum in the U.S. and won multiple Grammy Awards, with this song even earning a nomination for Song of the Year.
One of the things I love most about this track is the unique blend of these two incredible voices. Both Linda Ronstadt and Aaron Neville have such distinctive vocal styles that they’re instantly recognizable. Linda was one of the most versatile singers of her time, effortlessly moving between country ballads, ’60s rock, ’70s pop, classical music, adult contemporary in the ’80s and ’90s, and even mariachi—honoring the songs her father sang to her as a child. Aaron Neville, who began his career in the 1960s, later helped form the R&B group The Neville Brothers with his siblings in the mid-’70s. His signature tone adds emotion and depth to this duet, making it all the more powerful.
The song’s lyrics get me every time: “I don’t know much, but I know I love you. That may be all I need to know.”
I hope you enjoy this incredible tune!
Musicians on the Track:
- Linda Ronstadt, Aaron Neville – Vocals, vocal harmonies
- Don Grolnick – Acoustic piano
- Michael Landau – Electric guitar
- Leland Sklar – Bass
- Carlos Vega – Drums
- Michael Fisher – Percussion
- The Skywalker Symphony Orchestra – Arranged by David Campbell; Concertmaster: Pavel Farkas
Song: “Don’t Know Much”
Artist: Linda Ronstadt & Aaron Neville
Album: Cry Like a Rainstorm, Howl Like the Wind
Year: 1989
Look at this face
I know the years are showing
Look at this life
I still don’t know where it’s going
I don’t know much
But I know I love you
And that may be
All I need to know
Look at these eyes
They’ve never seen what mattered
Look at these dreams
So beaten and so battered
Look at this man
So blessed with inspiration
Look at this soul
Still searching for salvation
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My name is Michael Sanchez and I’m an avid record collector and obscure song searcher. My goal is to post (hopefully) one song a day that’s been on my stereo/turntable frequently. If you don’t like the song… too bad 🙂 You can just wait for the next one. All the info I find is from wikipedia/youtube/interviews/news articles/personal stories I’ve heard/random googling. Sorry if there are any mistakes.
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