Few artists have managed to blend blues, rock, and soul as seamlessly as Bonnie Raitt. With a career spanning over five decades, Raitt has become a musical icon, known for her smoky vocals, masterful slide guitar, and songs that cut straight to the heart. Whether she’s belting out a bluesy anthem or delivering a tender ballad, Raitt’s music resonates with a raw authenticity that has captivated audiences around the world. Her ability to convey deep emotion through her music has earned her a place among the greats, and her songs have become timeless classics that continue to inspire new generations of listeners.
In this article, we’re diving into the top 10 most popular Bonnie Raitt songs of all time—tracks that have not only defined her storied career but have also left an indelible mark on the music industry. From chart-topping hits to soulful deep cuts, these songs showcase the best of Raitt’s artistry, highlighting her unique ability to blend heartfelt lyrics with unforgettable melodies. So, whether you’re a long-time fan or new to her music, join us as we celebrate the songs that have made Bonnie Raitt a legend in the world of music.
1. “I Can’t Make You Love Me” (1991)
Released in 1991 as part of the album Luck of the Draw, “I Can’t Make You Love Me” is one of Bonnie Raitt’s most poignant and emotionally resonant songs. Written by Mike Reid and Allen Shamblin, the track showcases Raitt’s ability to convey deep, aching vulnerability with her soulful voice. The song’s simple piano arrangement allows Raitt’s raw emotion to shine through, making it a heartbreaking ballad about unrequited love. The lyrics capture the pain of accepting that love cannot be forced, and Raitt’s delivery makes it feel like a deeply personal confession. This song has since become an anthem for anyone who has ever faced the sorrow of loving someone who doesn’t love them back.
2. “Something to Talk About” (1991)
From the opening guitar riff, “Something to Talk About” exudes a playful confidence that immediately draws listeners in. Released in 1991 on the Luck of the Draw album, this track became one of Bonnie Raitt’s most recognizable hits, earning her widespread acclaim and a Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance. Written by Shirley Eikhard, the song’s lyrics cleverly address the rumors and gossip that often surround relationships, flipping the narrative with a carefree attitude. Raitt’s raspy, blues-infused vocals paired with the upbeat, infectious groove make this song irresistible, inviting listeners to embrace the fun in life’s unpredictability.
3. “Nick of Time” (1989)
The title track of Bonnie Raitt’s 1989 album, “Nick of Time,” is a reflective and introspective piece that struck a chord with listeners upon its release. Written by Raitt herself, the song delves into themes of aging, love, and self-realization. The lyrics poetically explore the passage of time and the importance of seizing moments before they slip away. Raitt’s warm, bluesy voice carries the weight of these themes with grace, making it a deeply relatable anthem. The success of “Nick of Time” marked a significant comeback for Raitt, earning her a Grammy Award for Album of the Year and solidifying her place as a leading voice in contemporary music.
4. “Love Sneakin’ Up on You” (1994)
“Love Sneakin’ Up on You” is a high-energy, infectious track from Bonnie Raitt’s 1994 album Longing in Their Hearts. Co-written by Raitt and George Marinelli, the song features a driving beat and a catchy chorus that instantly hooks listeners. The lyrics playfully describe how love can catch you off guard, sneaking up when you least expect it. Raitt’s signature slide guitar work adds an extra layer of excitement, complementing her powerful vocal performance. This song became a radio favorite, showcasing Raitt’s ability to blend rock, blues, and pop into a sound that’s both timeless and irresistible.
5. “Angel from Montgomery” (1974)
Originally written by John Prine, “Angel from Montgomery” became one of Bonnie Raitt’s most beloved songs after she included it on her 1974 album Streetlights. Raitt’s version of this folk-country ballad brings a haunting sense of longing and despair, perfectly capturing the spirit of a woman yearning for escape from her mundane life. Her soulful interpretation and emotive delivery give the song new life, transforming it into a timeless classic. The storytelling in “Angel from Montgomery” resonates deeply with listeners, and Raitt’s heartfelt performance ensures the song remains a staple in her live performances to this day.
6. “Not the Only One” (1991)
“Not the Only One” is a tender, introspective track from Bonnie Raitt’s 1991 album Luck of the Draw. Written by Paul Brady, the song explores the complexities of love and the realization that one’s feelings are shared by others. With a laid-back, acoustic vibe, Raitt’s soothing vocals guide the listener through the emotional landscape of the lyrics. The song’s gentle melody and heartfelt delivery make it a standout track on the album, showcasing Raitt’s ability to convey deep emotion with subtlety and grace. “Not the Only One” is a beautiful reminder that love, in all its forms, is a shared human experience.
7. “Have a Heart” (1989)
“Have a Heart” is a soulful, blues-driven track from Bonnie Raitt’s breakthrough 1989 album Nick of Time. Written by Bonnie Hayes, this song features a groovy bassline and infectious rhythm that perfectly complement Raitt’s powerful, emotive vocals. The lyrics tell the story of a woman demanding respect and honesty in a relationship, exuding both strength and vulnerability. Raitt’s performance on “Have a Heart” is both fierce and tender, capturing the complexities of love and self-worth. The song became a fan favorite, further establishing Raitt as a leading voice in contemporary blues and rock.
8. “Runaway” (1974)
Bonnie Raitt’s 1974 cover of Del Shannon’s hit “Runaway” brings a fresh, bluesy twist to the classic tune. Featured on her album Streetlights, Raitt’s version is slower and more groove-oriented, with her signature slide guitar adding a new dimension to the song. Her vocals are both sultry and haunting, giving a sense of urgency and longing to the lyrics about lost love. This cover demonstrates Raitt’s ability to reinterpret and breathe new life into existing songs, making them her own. “Runaway” remains one of Raitt’s most popular covers, showcasing her deep connection to the roots of American music.
9. “Thing Called Love” (1989)
“Thing Called Love,” originally written by John Hiatt, became one of Bonnie Raitt’s standout tracks after she recorded it for her 1989 album Nick of Time. With its catchy, blues-rock vibe and Raitt’s confident vocal delivery, the song quickly became a fan favorite. The lyrics, full of playful defiance, explore the unpredictable nature of love and relationships. Raitt’s rendition is full of energy and attitude, with her slide guitar adding an extra layer of grit. “Thing Called Love” helped propel Nick of Time to massive success, solidifying Raitt’s comeback and re-establishing her as a major force in music.
10. “One Belief Away” (1998)
Released as part of Bonnie Raitt’s 1998 album Fundamental, “One Belief Away” is a blues-infused track that showcases Raitt’s versatility as an artist. Co-written by Raitt, Paul Brady, and Dillon O’Brian, the song blends elements of blues, rock, and world music, creating a unique sound that stands out in her discography. The lyrics explore themes of faith, love, and self-discovery, with Raitt’s soulful voice conveying both strength and vulnerability. The track’s rhythmic groove and layered instrumentation make it an engaging listen, reflecting Raitt’s continued evolution as an artist who is unafraid to push boundaries and explore new musical landscapes.
Samuel Moore is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
