Sunday Evening with Linda Ronstadt

I have no problem admitting I am almost addicted to her music. Back in the 70s, I couldn't stop listening to her, and now 30-some years later, I still have the same problem. Her voice is just exquisite, and she sings some of the most amazing songs. So as I was listening to music so I could post a birthday wish to the equally gorgeous TrannyBeth yesterday, I kept coming back to Linda. And I decided to not fight the feeling, and go with a post on Sunday, too. And it starts with a great cover of a Motown song, Hurt So Bad. 15 years earlier, the song was a hit for Little Anthony & the Imperials.



The next track is another hit from 1965, this one courtesy of Smokey Robinson & the Miracles. Tracks of my Tears is just a beautiful song, and Linda infuses the pop nugget with just the right amount of heartache.



Before Ronstadt became a household name herself, she often played with other California acts, including The Eagles. She also toured with The Doors, Neil Young, and Jackson Browne, among many of the top music acts of the time. It is only natural she would cover Desperado, a song she often sang backup on with the Eagles.

Anthony Callea's Valentine

I love me some Anthony Callea, and have oft said he has the voice of an angel. He is adorable, hot, sexy, out and proud, and so freakin' talented. As I announced a bit ago, Anthony is opening for Whitney Houston on the Australian leg of her World Tour. It seems whenever pop stars go down under, they want Anthony by their side. Ask Celine, and now Whitney. I just wish one of them would being him back to the States so I could hear that delicious voice live. Like, for instance, this performance of Hurt So Bad from his self-titled debut. The song is sexy and smooth, and he sings it pitch-perfect.



Also from the debut, Per Sempre is a gorgeous song Anthony takes to a different place with the acoustic guitar accompaniment. And when he sings in Italian, it takes my breath away.



On his more recent release, A New Chapter, Anthony has a stronger song, like on the song Hearbeat. All about the love, Anthony combines a sexiness with a sweetness, keeping this song playing on my iPod.



The first CD is available on iTunes, although the second is not. Both can be purchased on Amazon, but are considered imports. I have ordered the live DVD and can't wait for it to arrive. I look at the DVD as my way of seeing him live, since I don't see myself flying to Australia any time soon. But if you like what you hear, buy it and you won't regret it for a moment. For more information about Anthony, you can check his website.