(Up To My Neck In) High Muddy Water - Feat. Linda Ronstadt - Stone Poneys
"(Up To My Neck In) High Muddy Water" is a folk-rock track by the American band Stone Poneys, featuring the iconic vocals of Linda Ronstadt. The song was released in 1967 as part of their self-titled album. The track tells the story of someone who finds themselves in a difficult situation, feeling overwhelmed and trapped in high muddy water. The lyrics describe the struggle of trying to keep their head above water and navigate through the challenges they face. The song's theme of perseverance and resilience resonated with listeners and became a popular track for the band. Musically, the song is characterized by its catchy melody, driven by acoustic guitar and Ronstadt's powerful vocals. The harmonies created by the band members add depth to the track, creating a rich and immersive listening experience. The instrumentation is simple yet effective, allowing Ronstadt's vocals to shine through and convey the emotions of the song. Notable for its poignant lyrics and strong vocal performance by Linda Ronstadt, "(Up To My Neck In) High Muddy Water" remains a standout track in Stone Poneys' discography. The song showcases the band's ability to blend folk and rock influences seamlessly, creating a timeless piece of music that continues to resonate with audiences decades after its release.
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.