Texas-based singer-songwriter Ronda Ray has taken music enthusiasts on an enchanting journey by fearlessly embracing one of her all-time favorite songs, “Gold Dust Woman,” originally performed by the legendary Stevie Nicks and Fleetwood Mac. In her latest musical endeavor, Ray ventures into the revered classic, infusing it with her unique style and heartfelt passion.
“Gold Dust Woman” has always held a mysterious allure, and Ronda Ray relishes the challenge of uncovering its deeper meaning. “You could spend a lifetime trying to figure out what ‘Gold Dust Woman’ is really about, which is exactly how long I believe the journey toward self-honesty takes,” Ray explains, her voice brimming with excitement. “It’s really fun to disappear into this song.”
With a reputation for both captivating original compositions and compelling cover performances, Ray enjoys paying tribute to the rock icons and anthems that have inspired her throughout her musical career. Among them, “Gold Dust Woman” occupies a special place at the top of her list. “This particular song is a gem in rock history,” she gushes. “And there are so many artists who’ve inspired me, like The Pretenders, Joan Jett, Heart, and The Foo Fighters.”
Stevie Nicks, the enchanting voice behind the original rendition, stands as a true hero in the music industry for Ray. Thus, when selecting songs to cover, Ronda meticulously seeks pieces that have left an indelible mark on the genre. “Gold Dust Woman” is an emotional tapestry that resonates deeply with her, making it a natural choice for her musical exploration. However, Ray isn’t content with merely replicating the iconic track; instead, she seeks to reinvent it, weaving her influences and style into its fabric.
Venturing into the heart of the Texas desert, Ronda Ray and her team embarked on a transformative recording experience at Sonic Ranch in Tornillo, Texas. The result of their immersive efforts is her newest album, aptly titled “Walking Away.” Nestled among a collection of songs encompassing rock, soul, and bluesy ballads, “Gold Dust Woman” shines as a standout track, radiating the raw emotions and creativity that define Ronda Ray’s musical expression.
Reflecting on the creative process, Ronda shares, “We really got out of the box on this one. My first record was good, but it was very safe. I like to see how far we can push the limits, so we can create something familiar but different. We did that on this song and the album.”
With “Walking Away,” Ronda Ray continues to carve her path as a gifted artist who celebrates the legacy of rock while crafting her own distinct sound. Her cover of “Gold Dust Woman” is a testament to her artistic prowess, honoring the past while fearlessly embracing the future. As the album captivates audiences with its fresh and evocative offerings, Ronda Ray’s star continues to rise in the music world, leaving fans eagerly awaiting her next musical endeavor.
