LOS ANGELES – Linda Ronstadt says she suffers from Parkinson’s disease and can no longer sing.

In an article posted online Friday, the 67-year-old music legend told AARP Magazine that she was diagnosed eight months ago and “can’t sing a note.”

Ronstadt says she began to show symptoms as long as eight years ago, but attributed her inability to sing then to a tick disease. When her hands began to tremble, Ronstadt said she thought the shaking was the result of a shoulder operation.

She said she was “completely shocked” when she finally saw a neurologist and was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.

“No one can sing with Parkinson’s disease,” Ronstadt told AARP music writer Alanna Nash. “No matter how hard you try.”

Ronstadt sold tens of millions of records starting in the 1970s with pop hits like “You’re No Good” and “When Will I Be Loved.” But she also segued into country, pop standards and other genres. She also was known for her romances with California Gov. Jerry Brown and filmmaker George Lucas.

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Ronstadt now uses poles to walk on uneven ground and a wheelchair when traveling.

Her autobiography will be released next month, but makes no mention of Parkinson’s or the loss of her voice, according to AARP.

Alec Baldwin, wife report new daughter is ‘perfect’

NEW YORK – Actor Alec Baldwin’s wife has given birth to a baby girl in New York.

Hilaria Baldwin tweeted the news from her verified Twitter account Friday night. She says that the family is overjoyed and that Carmen Gabriela “is absolutely perfect.” Publicist Matthew Hiltzik also confirmed the child’s birth.

The former “30 Rock” star already is the father of a 17-year-old daughter, Ireland, from his previous marriage to actress Kim Basinger.

Hilaria Baldwin is a special correspondent for the TV show “Extra.” The couple wed last June after a three-month engagement.

On her verified Twitter account, Ireland Baldwin welcomed her new sister into the world and linked to a blog post with 10 pieces of advice for the newborn.

– From news service reports


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