Though she came close in her long-term relationships, Linda Ronstadt never tied the knot. One of her most notable romances was with Jerry Brown, a bachelor politician who believed that being married to a celebrity might damage his chances in running for office. As one of the most successful singers of the '70s, Ronstadt didn’t just top the charts and sell out arenas—she also became a cultural icon and sex symbol, ensuring her personal life was subject to much scrutiny by the media. Over five decades after she hit the scene, the You’re No Good singer still captures attention.
The Unconventional Romance Between Linda Ronstadt and Jerry Brown
The romance between California Governor Jerry Brown and Linda Ronstadt was unconventional from the start. Brown, the son of two-term Governor Pat Brown, had originally wanted to become a Catholic priest but instead ended up single and living on Wonderland Ave in Laurel Canyon, at the height of its 1970s rock era, while running for office. Meanwhile, Ronstadt was at the top of her career with her album “Heart Like a Wheel” and its first single You're No Good sitting at number one.
The couple met at Lucy’s El Adobe restaurant, near the Paramount studio lot where both were regulars. The intensely private pair initially shied away from the media, but their combined notoriety made it very difficult to stay under the radar for long. After winning his second term, Brown and Ronstadt made their first big media splash when she accompanied him on a trip to Africa in 1979. Thinking they could avoid the press, they were instead besieged by reporters.
A Benefit Show for Jerry Brown
37 years ago, Linda Ronstadt hosted a benefit show for Jerry Brown at San Diego Sports Arena. Linda performed alongside rock bands like Chicago, creating a memorable night filled with music and political fervor. This event highlighted the deep bond shared by Ronstadt and Brown, as well as their mutual commitment to supporting causes they believed in.
Ronstadt's Memoir: Reflections on Love and Career
Linda Ronstadt’s new memoir, Simple Dreams, recounts her decades-long career in music and chronicles her current battle with Parkinson’s disease. In the book, she reflects candidly on her relationship with Jerry Brown. She writes, Jerry Brown and I had a lot of fun for many years. He was smart and funny, not interested in drinking or drugs, and lived his life carefully, with a great deal of discipline. However, she acknowledges that neither of them ever thought about sharing each other's lives permanently. I would have found his life too restrictive, and he would have found mine entirely chaotic, she adds.
Why Linda Ronstadt Never Married
Discover Linda Ronstadt's love life and her choice to stay single. From George Lucas to Jerry Brown, Ronstadt has been linked to several high-profile figures throughout her life. Yet, despite these relationships, she chose to remain unmarried. In her own words, Ronstadt explains why marriage wasn't right for her, emphasizing her dedication to her craft and the unique lifestyle that came with it.
Legacy and Influence
Even today, Linda Ronstadt remains an influential figure in the world of music. Her contributions to rock and roll during the '70s helped shape the genre, while her personal experiences offer insight into the challenges faced by women in the industry. Whether through her music, activism, or relationships, Ronstadt continues to inspire fans around the globe.
In reflecting on her time with Jerry Brown, Ronstadt highlights the complexities of maintaining a relationship amidst fame and public scrutiny. Their story serves as a reminder of the importance of authenticity and understanding in any partnership, regardless of external pressures.
As we look back on this iconic era, it becomes clear that both Ronstadt and Brown left lasting impressions—not only on each other but on the world itself.
