Linda Ronstadt's 1983 Classic Album That Was Almost Canceled - "Too Hard"!

Linda Ronstadt almost abandoned the classic *What's New* (1983), her album of jazz standards with Nelson Riddle. After success in country-rock, she wanted to expand into jazz inspired by Ella Fitzgerald, Rosemary Clooney and Frank Sinatra. He brought in Riddle (who worked with Sinatra), but producer Peter Asher was reluctant. After recording the first three tracks, Ronstadt felt they weren't good enough. Asher said, "Forget it. It's not going to happen. It's too hard." The project was paused to release *Get Closer* (1982). Friends and musicians encouraged the return, and *What's New* finally came out in 1983, with concept intact. A courageous journey that proved the versatility of the Queen of Country-Rock! Credit: Far Out / Linda Ronstadt