On July 28, 2014, Linda Ronstadt appeared at the White House to receive a National Medal of Arts from President Barack Obama. The president revealed cheekily, “I had a little crush on her back in the day,” but there were many other reasons to celebrate the legendary folk-rock singer that day.

Two months prior, in April, Ronstadt had to miss her Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction. Because of her Parkinson’s, she was unable to travel to New York City for the ceremony. Ronstadt was diagnosed in 2013, four years after she performed live for the final time in 2009.

However, Linda Ronstadt didn’t miss this opportunity. A military aide and wheelchair assisted her as she received the honor from President Obama. She was praised for her “one-of-a-kind voice” and impact on the folk-rock genre. Additionally, she was honored for her influence on the music industry for women, as she helped pave the way for many contemporary artists.

Linda Ronstadt Received a National Medal of Arts Honor in 2014, Following Her Tribute at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

Linda Ronstadt had to miss her Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction. But her contemporaries and friends who had gathered in New York City still honored her legacy. While the induction ceremonies are usually held in Cleveland, Ohio, there have been 28 instances where the ceremony was held at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn. 2014 was one of those.

Glenn Frey of The Eagles, a close friend of Ronstadt, gave a heartwarming tribute. He spoke about how they first met, which included the fact that The Eagles most likely wouldn’t exist without her. Additionally, he included mentions of her chart-topping work in the 70s. Then, her musical experimentation in the 80s and beyond.

“She has been a shining example and a true inspiration to every woman who ever stood in front of a microphone and sang her heart out,” said Frey. “And through it all, she remains nothing but authentic. You see, Linda lives in a place where art trumps commerce, where self-exploration trumps self-exploitation, where hard work and integrity trump fame and failure. She never wanted to be a star, she just wanted to make good music.”

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