The Freedom Found in Releasing a Broken Heart
Let’s turn our attention to a voice that could melt glaciers and break hearts with equal ease – the incomparable Linda Ronstadt. Her ability to inhabit a song, making it undeniably her own regardless of its origin, is legendary. From rock anthems to country ballads, her interpretations were always imbued with a rare blend of power and vulnerability. Today, we’re revisiting a classic tune that, in Ronstadt’s hands, transforms from a rockabilly hit into a poignant statement of emotional liberation: “It Doesn’t Matter Anymore.”
“It Doesn’t Matter Anymore” was originally a massive hit for Buddy Holly, who recorded it in 1958. However, Linda Ronstadt’s masterful rendition brought a fresh perspective to the song when she released her version in 1974. This track was a key highlight on her seminal album “Heart Like a Wheel.” This album was a monumental success for Ronstadt, soaring to number one on the Billboard 200 chart in the US and receiving widespread critical acclaim. While “It Doesn’t Matter Anymore” was not released as a primary single from “Heart Like a Wheel” (which featured smash hits like “You’re No Good” and “When Will I Be Loved”), its inclusion on such a hugely popular and influential album ensured it reached a vast audience. Its presence solidified Ronstadt’s reputation as an astute interpreter of classic material and a formidable force in the blossoming country-rock scene. The album’s success provided the perfect platform for this track to be rediscovered and appreciated by a new generation of listeners.
The story behind “It Doesn’t Matter Anymore” begins with its brilliant writer, Paul Anka. Anka penned the song specifically for Buddy Holly, who was initially hesitant to record it due to its more pop-oriented sound compared to his usual rock and roll style. Despite his reservations, Holly’s recording became a posthumous number one hit in the UK following his tragic death in 1959. For Linda Ronstadt to choose this song nearly two decades later was a testament to its timeless melody and lyrics. Ronstadt and her producer, Peter Asher, were meticulous in selecting material that not only showcased her vocal prowess but also allowed for profound emotional interpretation. Ronstadt’s version moved away from the upbeat, almost defiant swagger of Holly’s original, infusing it with a more nuanced, reflective quality that highlighted the underlying emotional journey of the lyrics. Her choice demonstrated her deep respect for classic songwriting while bringing her own unique, sophisticated sensibility to the fore.
The meaning of “It Doesn’t Matter Anymore” is a declaration of emotional freedom after a heartbreak, a defiant letting go of a past relationship’s pain. While it begins with the sting of being left, the song quickly transitions into a powerful affirmation of self-worth and resilience. The core message is that the betrayal or departure of a lover, while initially hurtful, ultimately ceases to hold power. Lines like “There you go, and here am I / Well, you left me here and you watched me cry / What makes you think that I can’t live without you?” perfectly capture this shift from sadness to empowered indifference. It’s a journey from vulnerability to a realization that one’s happiness is not dependent on another person’s presence or validation. For older listeners who have navigated the complexities of relationships and experienced their share of heartbreak, this song resonates deeply. It speaks to the universal process of healing, finding inner strength, and eventually reaching a point where the pain truly dissipates, leaving behind a sense of peace and independence.
Listening to “It Doesn’t Matter Anymore” as interpreted by Linda Ronstadt is a remarkably cathartic experience. Her voice, rich with a controlled intensity, imbues the song with a maturity and depth that goes beyond the original’s youthful exuberance. The arrangement on “Heart Like a Wheel” is polished yet organic, allowing her vocals to soar without being overwhelmed. The gentle sway of the rhythm and the subtle instrumentation create a supportive bed for Ronstadt’s powerful delivery, letting every nuance of emotional release shine through. It transports us back to a time when great singers could truly inhabit a song, making it feel entirely new while honoring its origins. This track stands as a testament to Ronstadt’s unparalleled artistry, transforming a beloved standard into a personal anthem of resilience and the quiet, triumphant liberation that comes from letting go.