Debbie Rider-Singer, Songwriter, Linda Ronstadt Tribute Artist

https://www.rockatnight.com/2021/07/former-singer-with-lynyrd-skynyrd-debbie-rider-performs-linda-ronstadt-hits-in-jacksonville/The request was to reach out to the incredibly talented Debbie Rider. As a singer- song writer and veteran of the music world, Debbie has won awards in music, been a character voice actress, featured in jingles and was a backup singer for Lynyrd Skynyrd from 1989 – 1992.

Debbie has been working with some of the finest musicians here in the First Coast to bring to audiences a recreation of Linda Ronstadt’s career bending, LIVE for radio broadcast recorded in 1974 at My Father’s Place in Roselyn, New York. On July 15, 2021 she performed every song in the same order as the broadcast, complete with Linda’s commentary and banter with the audience. What else was significant about that date? Well, it was Linda Ronstadt’s birthday! 

Full of fans anticipating this glorious production from the year before, Debbie came on stage dressed as the 1974 Linda belting out familiar songs from the album “Heart Like a Wheel”. With favorites such as “You’re No Good”, “When Will I be Loved” and “You Can Close Your Eyes”, she sang with such emotion and care for the original recording and her audience appreciated it. Her second set was another treat. Debbie shed the Linda of ’74 and brought us a few years ahead in time to give us “Blue Bayou”, “Just One Look” complete with backup singers, and everyone’s favorite “That’ll Be the Day”.

Getting to cover this show was a huge treat! The music we listen to today is inspired by the powerful women in the industry who paved the way. It’s hard to believe that the incredible Linda Ronstadt just celebrated her 75th birthday and we thank Debbie Rider for the production of such a beautiful homage. If you missed the show, you can catch Debbie Rider again in upcoming shows!