Music artists of today are usually inspired by those of yesterday. Every once in a while, some are given the opportunity to pay homage to their idols in an unforgettable way.
At the 2019 Kennedy Center Honors, Carrie Underwood performed a special tribute to Linda Ronstadt for her years of contributions to the music world.
By no surprise, the stage lit up that evening when Underwood sang two of Ronstadt’s hit songs, “Blue Bayou” and “When Will I Be Loved,” with the legendary artist watching from the crowd.
The 42nd event took place at the Kennedy Center Opera House located in Washington, D.C. In addition to Ronstadt, some of the other honorees included Sally Field, Sesame Street, Earth, Wind & Fire, and Michael Tilson Thomas.
As part of Ronstadt’s tribute, Underwood grabbed ahold of the microphone wearing a silvery dress. Photos of the “Queen of Rock” filled a screen behind the country artist during her performance.
Linda Ronstadt’s made great achievements over the years as a country/pop singer – with her career first skyrocketing in the 1970s. She’s been the recipient of many awards, including 10 Grammys.
According to Biography, Ronstadt has sold over 100 million records across the globe. In 2014, she was inducted into the famous Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
To celebrate Ronstadt at the Kennedy Center Honors, Underwood, who’s also a multi-Grammy Award-winning artist, began with a rendition of the song “Blue Bayou.”
The tune was penned by Roy Orbison and Joe Melson. It was first released on Orbison’s album in 1963, however, Ronstadt also created a version that became a big success for her in 1977.
Underwood had everyone in the crowd captivated as she sang “Blue Bayou” with her beautiful vocals. Ronstadt, herself, was one of the attendees who watched on in awe.
After delivering a sultry rendition, Underwood switched over to another epic song, “When Will I Be Loved,” kicking up the vibe.
During Underwood’s upbeat performance broadcast by CBS, other celebrities can be seen in the audience such as the Jonas Brothers and actress Rita Wilson. Ronstadt is filmed with a huge smile on her face.
Everyone clapped along as Underwood brought down the house with her cover of “When Will I Be Loved.” The track was originally recorded by The Everly Brothers in 1960, yet, according to Songfacts, Ronstadt’s 1974 version became a more popular hit.
Carrie Underwood took to social media after the event to express herself. On Twitter, the country star wrote:
I was so honored to finally meet the phenomenal #LindaRonstadt, a true artist and versatile vocalist who excelled at performing all kinds of music. I hope I made you proud, Linda. 💕#KCHonors #BlueBayou #WhenWillIBeLoved #Inspired — Carrie Underwood (@carrieunderwood) December 14, 2019
Within a week, the moving performance has been viewed more than 120,000 times on CBS’s YouTube channel.
It’s received positive comments like:
“Wonderful performance complimenting the lovely one of a kind Linda Ronstadt!!! Some of my best years in life are entangled with this lady’s beautiful voice. Not everyone can hit those notes, awesome job and what an honor to witness.”
Another person wrote:
“Oh my gosh, very touching. During Blue Bayou, Linda looks like she’s ready to cry. Carrie did an incredible job. Always my favorite song by Linda Ronstadt and a very emotional song. Loved it.”
You can watch Carrie Underwood honor Linda Ronstadt for yourself below!
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