As a songwriter, Karla Bonoff's songs have been interpreted by other artists. In particular fellow Californian Linda Ronstadt has successfully recorded a number of her songs, including, Someone To Lay Down Beside Me, Trouble Again, All My Life, Falling Star and Goodbye My Friend, helping to introduce Bonoff to a larger audience.
Bonoff sang background vocals for Ronstadt and Wendy Waldman before releasing her debut album in 1977. Although known primarily as a songwriter, her performances have appeared on numerous movie soundtracks, and she enjoys a dedicated cult following.