About the song
Now, “How Do I Make You” is a song that truly captures the essence of yearning and desire. Released in 1980 as part of her album Mad Love, it showcases Ronstadt’s incredible vocal prowess and her ability to infuse raw emotion into every note. This wasn’t a typical Ronstadt ballad; it had an edge, a rock-infused passion that resonated with a generation navigating the complexities of love and longing.
The song, penned by the talented Billy Steinberg, explores that universal quest to connect with someone on a deeper level. It’s about that burning question we all have when we fall for someone: how do we truly reach them, how do we make them see and feel the depth of our emotions? Ronstadt’s delivery is nothing short of breathtaking. Her voice soars and aches with a vulnerability that’s both powerful and heartbreaking. You can almost feel the desperation, the longing in every line as she pleads, “How do I make you want me?”
What’s fascinating about “How Do I Make You” is its musical arrangement. It’s a beautiful blend of soft rock and new wave influences, with a driving beat that pulls you in. The song features prominent electric guitar riffs and synthesizers, creating a soundscape that was quite different from Ronstadt’s earlier, more country-folk-oriented work. This departure showcased her versatility as an artist and her willingness to experiment with new sounds.
“How Do I Make You” resonated with audiences, climbing the charts and becoming one of Ronstadt’s most beloved hits. It captured the spirit of the time, a period marked by both romanticism and a touch of angst. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its raw honesty and relatability. Who hasn’t felt that yearning to connect with someone on a soul-deep level?
Whether you’re a longtime fan of Linda Ronstadt or new to her music, “How Do I Make You” is a song that deserves a place in your heart. It’s a reminder of the power of love, longing, and the timeless quest to truly be seen and understood.
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Lyrics
You’re a doll
Your eyes see all
And how do I make you
How do I make you
How do I make you
want to see me?
You’re so young
But your feelings are deep
And how do I make you
How do I make you
How do I make you feel for me
You put your head on my pillow
And you’re fast asleep
And how do I make you
How do I make you
How do I make you
Dream about me?
Ooh, ooh, baby
The world’s a wall of ice
You’re gonna need someone
To treat you warm
And keep you nice
I like the way you dance
The way you spin
And how do I make you
How do I make you
How do I make you
Spin for me?
You put your head on my pillow
And you’re fast asleep
And how do I make you
How do I make you
How do I make you
Dream about me?
Dream about me?