Bonnie Raitt is an American blues and roots rock singer-songwriter and guitarist, born on November 8, 1949, in Burbank, California. She is renowned for her distinctive voice, slide guitar playing, and heartfelt songwriting. Raitt’s music often blends elements of blues, rock, folk, and country, creating a unique and soulful sound.
Raitt began her music career in the late 1960s and gained recognition for her blues-influenced style and powerful live performances. She released her self-titled debut album in 1971, but it wasn’t until the release of her fourth album, “Give It Up” (1972), that she started to achieve commercial success.
In the late 1980s and early 1990s, Raitt experienced a resurgence in her career with a string of critically acclaimed albums, including “Nick of Time” (1989), “Luck of the Draw” (1991), and “Longing in Their Hearts” (1994). These albums produced several hit singles, including “Something to Talk About,” “Love Sneakin’ Up on You,” and “I Can’t Make You Love Me,” which became signature songs for Raitt.
Throughout her career, Raitt has received numerous accolades, including ten Grammy Awards. She is admired for her soulful vocals, exceptional guitar skills, and socially conscious songwriting. Raitt is also known for her activism and advocacy work, particularly in environmental and social justice causes.
With a career spanning over five decades, Bonnie Raitt remains a beloved figure in the music industry and continues to tour and record new music. Her contributions to blues, rock, and roots music have earned her a permanent place in the hearts of music lovers worldwide.
1. “I Can’t Make You Love Me”
“I Can’t Make You Love Me” is a poignant ballad performed by Bonnie Raitt. The song was written by Mike Reid and Allen Shamblin and was included on Raitt’s Grammy-winning album “Luck of the Draw,” released in 1991.
“I Can’t Make You Love Me” is known for its emotive lyrics and Raitt’s soulful delivery, which perfectly captures the pain of unrequited love. The song’s narrator expresses vulnerability and resignation, acknowledging that despite their feelings, they cannot force someone else to reciprocate.
Upon its release, “I Can’t Make You Love Me” became one of Raitt’s most acclaimed and commercially successful songs. It received widespread critical praise and earned Raitt a Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance.
Over the years, “I Can’t Make You Love Me” has been covered by numerous artists from various genres, further solidifying its status as a timeless classic. The song’s emotional depth and universal themes continue to resonate with listeners, making it a standout track in Raitt’s extensive catalog.
2. “Something to Talk About”
“Something to Talk About” is a song performed by Bonnie Raitt. It was released in 1991 as the lead single from her album of the same name.
“Something to Talk About” is a blues-rock song with elements of country and pop. The song’s lyrics explore themes of gossip and speculation surrounding a romantic relationship, with the narrator expressing amusement at the rumors and innuendo.
The song’s catchy melody, soulful vocals, and memorable guitar riff contributed to its commercial success. “Something to Talk About” reached the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and also charted well in several other countries.
The song earned Bonnie Raitt a Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance in 1992, further cementing its status as one of her signature songs. “Something to Talk About” remains a classic of the blues-rock genre and continues to receive airplay on radio stations worldwide.
3. “Love Sneakin’ Up on You”
“Love Sneakin’ Up on You” is a song by Bonnie Raitt from her 1994 album “Longing in Their Hearts.”
“Love Sneakin’ Up on You” is a blues-rock song with a catchy groove and soulful vocals. The song’s lyrics describe the unexpected nature of falling in love, with the narrator expressing surprise and delight at the suddenness of romantic feelings.
The song’s upbeat tempo, lively instrumentation, and infectious melody contributed to its commercial success. “Love Sneakin’ Up on You” reached the top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and also charted well in other countries.
The song earned Bonnie Raitt a Grammy Award for Best Female Rock Vocal Performance in 1995, further solidifying its status as one of her signature songs. “Love Sneakin’ Up on You” remains a fan favorite and a staple of Raitt’s live performances, showcasing her talent as both a vocalist and a guitarist in the blues-rock genre.
4. “Thing Called Love”
“Thing Called Love” is a blues-rock song performed by Bonnie Raitt, released in 1989 as part of her Grammy-winning album “Nick of Time.” The song was written by John Hiatt, a prolific singer-songwriter known for his soulful and rootsy compositions.
“Thing Called Love” is characterized by its energetic rhythm, catchy guitar riffs, and Raitt’s powerful vocals. The song’s lyrics explore the complexities of love and relationships, with Raitt singing about the ups and downs of romantic entanglements and the enduring hope that love brings.
Upon its release, “Thing Called Love” became one of Raitt’s most successful songs, receiving significant airplay on radio stations and earning critical acclaim for its infectious energy and bluesy vibe. It helped propel “Nick of Time” to commercial success and won Raitt a Grammy Award for Best Female Rock Vocal Performance.
“Thing Called Love” has since become a staple of Raitt’s live performances and a fan favorite among audiences worldwide. Its irresistible groove and relatable lyrics continue to make it a standout track in Raitt’s illustrious career and a beloved classic in the blues-rock genre.
5. “Nick of Time”
“Nick of Time” is a song by Bonnie Raitt from her Grammy-winning album of the same name, released in 1989.
“Nick of Time” is a soulful ballad characterized by its introspective lyrics and heartfelt vocals. The song reflects on the passage of time and the realization of life’s impermanence, with the narrator expressing a desire to make the most of the present moment before it’s too late.
The song’s emotional depth and relatable themes resonated with audiences, and it became one of Bonnie Raitt’s most successful songs. “Nick of Time” earned Raitt three Grammy Awards in 1990, including Album of the Year, Record of the Year, and Best Female Pop Vocal Performance.
“Nick of Time” remains a fan favorite and a staple of Raitt’s live performances. Its poignant lyrics and soulful melody continue to captivate listeners, solidifying its place as one of Raitt’s signature songs and a classic in the singer-songwriter genre.
6. “Love Letter”
“Love Letter” is a bluesy rock song performed by Bonnie Raitt, released in 2002 as part of her album “Silver Lining.” The song was written by Bonnie Hayes, a singer-songwriter known for her contributions to the rock and pop music scene.
“Love Letter” features Raitt’s soulful vocals and gritty guitar playing, accompanied by a groovy rhythm section and bluesy instrumentation. The song’s lyrics depict a heartfelt message of love and longing, with Raitt singing about the desire to reconnect with a lost love and express affection through a written letter.
Upon its release, “Love Letter” received positive reviews from critics and fans alike, praising Raitt’s emotive performance and the song’s infectious melody. Although it didn’t achieve the same commercial success as some of Raitt’s earlier hits, “Love Letter” remains a standout track in her discography, showcasing her enduring talent and versatility as a blues-rock artist.
With its soulful vocals, heartfelt lyrics, and bluesy instrumentation, “Love Letter” continues to resonate with listeners, reaffirming Bonnie Raitt’s status as one of the most respected and influential figures in contemporary blues and rock music.
7. “Have a Heart”
“Have a Heart” is a song by Bonnie Raitt from her Grammy-winning album “Nick of Time,” released in 1989.
“Have a Heart” is a blues-rock song with a catchy rhythm and soulful vocals. The song’s lyrics explore themes of love and forgiveness, with the narrator pleading for understanding and empathy from their partner.
The song’s infectious groove and heartfelt lyrics resonated with audiences, and it became one of Bonnie Raitt’s most successful songs. “Have a Heart” received critical acclaim and earned Raitt a Grammy Award for Best Female Rock Vocal Performance in 1990.
“Have a Heart” remains a fan favorite and a staple of Raitt’s live performances. Its memorable melody and powerful vocal delivery showcase Raitt’s talent as both a singer and a guitarist in the blues-rock genre.
8. “Let’s Give Them Something to Talk About”
“Let’s Give Them Something to Talk About” is a blues-rock song performed by Bonnie Raitt, released in 1991 as part of her Grammy-winning album “Luck of the Draw.” The song was written by Shirley Eikhard, a Canadian singer-songwriter known for her contributions to the pop and country music genres.
“Let’s Give Them Something to Talk About” features Raitt’s soulful vocals and signature slide guitar playing, accompanied by a catchy melody and upbeat rhythm section. The song’s lyrics explore the excitement and anticipation of embarking on a new romantic relationship, with Raitt singing about the thrill of sparking gossip and speculation among friends and acquaintances.
Upon its release, “Let’s Give Them Something to Talk About” became one of Raitt’s most successful songs, receiving significant airplay on radio stations and earning critical acclaim for its infectious energy and catchy hooks. It helped propel “Luck of the Draw” to commercial success and won Raitt a Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance.
“Let’s Give Them Something to Talk About” remains one of Raitt’s most beloved and enduring songs, a staple of her live performances and a fan favorite among audiences worldwide. Its infectious melody, heartfelt lyrics, and soulful vocals continue to resonate with listeners, making it a timeless classic in the blues-rock genre.
9. “Angel from Montgomery”
“Angel from Montgomery” is a song written by American singer-songwriter John Prine. It was first released on his self-titled debut album in 1971.
“Angel from Montgomery” is a folk-country song that tells the story of a woman who feels trapped in a mundane and unfulfilling life. The narrator expresses a longing to escape her circumstances and dreams of a better life, imagining herself as an “angel” who can fly away from her troubles.
The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including Bonnie Raitt, whose rendition is perhaps the most well-known. Raitt’s version of “Angel from Montgomery” was included on her 1974 album “Streetlights” and helped to popularize the song.
Raitt’s soulful and emotive vocal delivery, combined with her bluesy guitar playing, brought a new depth and resonance to the song. Her version of “Angel from Montgomery” became a signature song for her and remains one of her most beloved recordings.
“Angel from Montgomery” has since become a classic of the folk and country genres and has been covered by countless artists across various musical styles. Its poignant lyrics and timeless melody continue to resonate with listeners, making it a staple of Americana music.
10. “Love Me Like a Man”
“Love Me Like a Man” is a blues song written by Chris Smither. It was first released on his 1970 album “Don’t It Drag On.”
Bonnie Raitt recorded a cover version of “Love Me Like a Man” for her 1972 album “Give It Up.” Raitt’s rendition of the song helped to popularize it and became one of her signature songs.
“Love Me Like a Man” is characterized by its raw and soulful vocals, as well as its bluesy guitar riff. The song’s lyrics express a desire for a partner who can provide love and companionship in a mature and fulfilling way.
Raitt’s powerful and emotive performance, combined with her skillful slide guitar playing, brought new life to the song and helped to establish her as a leading figure in the blues-rock genre.
“Love Me Like a Man” remains a fan favorite and a staple of Raitt’s live performances. Its timeless lyrics and infectious groove continue to resonate with audiences, making it a classic of the blues and rock repertoire.
Edward Tomlin 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.
