Different Drum (1992 Digital Remaster) - Stone Poneys
"Different Drum" is a classic folk rock song by the American band Stone Poneys, featuring lead vocals by Linda Ronstadt. The song was originally written by Mike Nesmith of The Monkees, but the Stone Poneys' version became the most popular and enduring one. The track tells the story of a woman who is determined to live life on her own terms, even if it means going against societal expectations. The lyrics convey a sense of independence and defiance, with the protagonist declaring that she will march to the beat of a "different drum" and follow her own path. Musically, the song is characterized by its catchy melody, acoustic guitar-driven arrangement, and Ronstadt's powerful vocals. The harmonies provided by the band members complement Ronstadt's lead vocals, creating a rich and dynamic sound. "Different Drum" was a commercial success for the Stone Poneys, reaching the top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1967. The song has since become a beloved classic in the folk rock genre and is often cited as one of Ronstadt's signature songs. The 1992 digital remaster of the track enhances the overall sound quality, bringing out the nuances of the instrumentation and vocals. This version allows listeners to fully appreciate the beauty and timelessness of "Different Drum" and its enduring appeal.
Stone Poneys
The Stone Poneys were an American folk-rock trio formed in Los Angeles in 1965. The group consisted of Linda Ronstadt on vocals, Bobby Kimmel on rhythm guitar, and Kenny Edwards on lead guitar. The band's sound was a fusion of folk, rock, and country music, with Ronstadt's powerful vocals serving as the focal point of their sound. Linda Ronstadt had already established herself as a promising solo artist in the folk music scene before joining the Stone Poneys. Her exceptional vocal range and emotive delivery quickly garnered attention, and her collaboration with Kimmel and Edwards resulted in a unique and dynamic sound that set them apart from other bands of the era. The Stone Poneys achieved commercial success with their debut single, "Different Drum," written by Michael Nesmith of The Monkees. The song reached number 13 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1967 and propelled the band into the spotlight. They released two albums, "The Stone Poneys" and "Evergreen, Volume 2," before disbanding in 1968. While their time together was relatively short-lived, the Stone Poneys left a lasting impact on the music industry. Linda Ronstadt went on to have a highly successful solo career, becoming one of the best-selling female artists of all time. Her work with the Stone Poneys helped to establish her as a versatile and talented vocalist, paving the way for her future success. The Stone Poneys' blend of folk, rock, and country music also influenced a new generation of musicians and bands, helping to shape the sound of folk-rock in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Their music continues to be celebrated by fans and critics alike for its timeless quality and enduring appeal. Though they may have been a short-lived group, the Stone Poneys' impact on music is undeniable. Their innovative sound and the exceptional talent of Linda Ronstadt have cemented their place in music history, ensuring that they will be remembered as pioneers of the folk-rock genre.