Linda Ronstadt Prisoner in Disguise LP

Prisoner in Disguise is the sixth solo studio album by Linda Ronstadt, released in September 1975. It followed her breakthrough success with Heart Like a Wheel and helped establish her as one of the leading voices in 1970s country-rock. Produced by Peter Asher, the album combines country, rock, folk, and pop influences while showcasing Ronstadt's exceptional ability to reinterpret songs from a wide range of songwriters. Rather than relying on original material, Ronstadt assembled an eclectic collection of songs by writers including Neil Young, J. D. Souther, James Taylor, Lowell George, Jimmy Cliff, and Dolly Parton. Highlights include "Love Is a Rose," "Heat Wave," "Many Rivers to Cross," "Tracks of My Tears," and her early recording of "I Will Always Love You." The album's sound is more varied than Heart Like a Wheel. It moves from the country flavor of "Love Is a Rose" and the title track to the Motown-inspired energy of "Heat Wave," the gospel-soul intensity of "Many Rivers to Cross," and the tenderness of "The Sweetest Gift," a duet with Emmylou Harris. The supporting musicians included future stars and respected session players such as Andrew Gold, J. D. Souther, and James Taylor.