Different Drum - Stone Poneys
"Different Drum" is a folk rock song by the American band Stone Poneys, featuring lead vocals by Linda Ronstadt. The song was written by Mike Nesmith of The Monkees and was released as a single in 1967. The theme of the song revolves around independence and individuality. The lyrics tell the story of a woman who is not interested in conforming to societal norms or following the expectations of others. She sings about wanting to march to the beat of her own "different drum" and not being swayed by outside influences. Musically, "Different Drum" features a catchy melody with a country-influenced arrangement. Linda Ronstadt's powerful vocals shine on this track, conveying a sense of defiance and determination. The song's instrumentation includes acoustic guitars, drums, and subtle harmonies that complement Ronstadt's emotive delivery. Notable facts about "Different Drum" include its success on the charts, reaching the top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song has since become a classic in the folk rock genre and is considered one of Linda Ronstadt's signature songs. It has been covered by numerous artists over the years, cementing its status as a timeless anthem of individuality and self-expression.
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.