Linda Ronstadt

Heart Like a Wheel

First released1974

Heart Like a Wheel was recorded in 1974 at various Los Angeles studios, primarily at Capitol Studios and Record Plant, with producer Peter Asher overseeing the project. The album featured a collaborative approach with multiple session musicians and engineers, building on Ronstadt's transition toward the country-rock sound that had begun with her previous work. Asher's production emphasized a polished yet organic arrangement style, utilizing state-of-the-art analog recording techniques available in mid-1970s Los Angeles. The album's success was partly driven by the hit single "You're No Good," which became Ronstadt's first number-one single and helped establish her as a major commercial artist. The production reflected the broader mid-1970s shift in popular music toward cleaner, more radio-friendly pop-rock productions while maintaining strong country influences.