Linda Ronstadt

I continue to love Linda.  She may not have strictly adhered to the styles that the songs she sang demanded, but her intelligence, sheer vocal chops and adventurous spirit made her compelling, anyway.  I saw her perform, either at the Hollywood Bowl or the Greek Theater in L.A., in her famous trio with Emmylou Harris and Dolly Parton.  Outstanding.

i got a mint OP of Trio and it is stunning:-) 

I'm not a fan of all of her work (for instance, the Riddle standards) but I have absolutely loved her voice for 50 years or more.  I had the pleasure of seeing/hearing her open for Neil Young in the early 70's and also witnessed a rather impromptu one-off performance where she was backed by Commander Cody and the Lost Planet Airmen around the same time.  Besides being my favorite female soloist, she's also great in duo situations, such as with Paul Simon ("Under African Skies") or Los Lobos' David Hidalgo ("El Chubasco").

Sorry to be contrarian, but I am a big Linda fan. I have many of her records and CDs, including the Nelson Riddle LP trio.  I amazed by her vocal range and diversity.  I love her personal musical variations of old standards from whatever era.  In particular, I love her Livin' in The USA LP album where she was roller skating in shorty-shorts.  She was adorable back then.  

Just my opinion of course.

You aren't a contrarian because it seems you agree with everyone else.