Bonnie Raitt is an American blues singer, guitarist, and songwriter, known for her distinctive voice, slide guitar playing, and heartfelt interpretations of blues, rock, and folk music.
Born on November 8, 1949, in Burbank, California, Raitt grew up in a musical family and began playing guitar at a young age. She was heavily influenced by blues and roots music, and her early performances included appearances at folk festivals and coffeehouses.
Raitt released her debut album, “Bonnie Raitt,” in 1971, showcasing her unique blend of blues, rock, and folk styles. Despite critical acclaim, the album didn’t achieve commercial success. However, she continued to refine her sound and build a loyal fan base through her dynamic live performances.
It was not until her sixth album, “Nick of Time,” released in 1989, that Raitt achieved widespread commercial success. The album, which featured hits like “Thing Called Love” and “Have a Heart,” earned Raitt four Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year.
Throughout her career, Raitt has released numerous acclaimed albums and won multiple Grammy Awards. She is known for her soulful vocals, passionate performances, and socially conscious songwriting. Raitt’s music often addresses themes of love, heartache, resilience, and social justice.
In addition to her musical career, Raitt is also known for her activism and philanthropy. She has been involved in various environmental and social causes, including advocating for the rights of Indigenous peoples and promoting sustainability.
Bonnie Raitt’s impact on American music and culture is profound, and she remains a revered figure in the world of blues and roots music. Her powerful voice, virtuosic guitar playing, and authentic songwriting continue to inspire generations of musicians and fans alike.
1. I Can’t Make You Love Me
“I Can’t Make You Love Me” is a song performed by Bonnie Raitt, released in 1991 on her album “Luck of the Draw.” The song was written by Mike Reid and Allen Shamblin.
“I Can’t Make You Love Me” is a soulful ballad that explores the pain of unrequited love and the acceptance of the reality that one cannot force someone to love them. Bonnie Raitt’s emotive vocal delivery, combined with the song’s poignant lyrics and haunting melody, has made it one of her signature songs.
The song received widespread critical acclaim and commercial success, earning Raitt a Grammy nomination for Record of the Year. “I Can’t Make You Love Me” has since become a classic in the pop and blues genres, and it has been covered by numerous artists across various musical styles.
Raitt’s heartfelt rendition of “I Can’t Make You Love Me” remains a standout moment in her career, showcasing her powerful vocal abilities and emotional depth as an artist. The song continues to resonate with listeners around the world, striking a chord with anyone who has experienced the pain of unrequited love.
2. Something to Talk About
“Something to Talk About” is a song performed by Bonnie Raitt, released in 1991 on her album “Luck of the Draw.” The song was written by Canadian singer-songwriter Shirley Eikhard.
“Something to Talk About” is an upbeat blues-rock song with catchy guitar riffs and a memorable chorus. The lyrics revolve around the idea of gossip and speculation in a small town, with the narrator challenging the rumors and expressing a desire for honesty and transparency in a relationship.
The song became one of Bonnie Raitt’s most successful singles, reaching high chart positions in the United States and earning her a Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance. Its catchy melody and relatable lyrics made it a hit on mainstream radio and helped solidify Raitt’s status as a versatile and talented artist.
“Something to Talk About” remains a staple of Bonnie Raitt’s live performances and continues to be celebrated as one of her signature songs. Its infectious energy and empowering message have resonated with listeners for decades, making it a standout moment in Raitt’s extensive discography.
3. Love Sneakin’ Up on You
“Love Sneakin’ Up on You” is a song performed by Bonnie Raitt, released in 1994 on her album “Longing in Their Hearts.” The song was written by Tom Snow and Jimmy Scott.
“Love Sneakin’ Up on You” is an upbeat blues-rock song with a catchy groove and infectious rhythm. The lyrics tell the story of unexpected love and attraction catching the narrator off guard, with Raitt’s signature soulful vocals delivering the message with authenticity and passion.
The song was a commercial success, reaching high chart positions in the United States and earning Raitt a Grammy Award for Best Female Rock Vocal Performance. Its catchy melody, energetic instrumentation, and empowering lyrics made it a hit on mainstream radio and a fan favorite in Raitt’s extensive catalog.
“Love Sneakin’ Up on You” remains a staple of Bonnie Raitt’s live performances and continues to be celebrated as one of her signature songs. Its infectious energy and feel-good vibe make it a standout moment on the “Longing in Their Hearts” album and a beloved track among fans of Raitt’s blues-rock sound.
4. Thing Called Love
“Thing Called Love” is a song performed by Bonnie Raitt, released in 1989 on her album “Nick of Time.” The song was written by John Hiatt, who originally recorded it for his 1987 album “Bring the Family.”
“Thing Called Love” is an energetic blues-rock song with a catchy rhythm and infectious guitar riffs. The lyrics explore the complexities of love, with Raitt’s soulful vocals conveying both longing and defiance as she sings about the ups and downs of romantic relationships.
The song was a commercial success, reaching high chart positions in the United States and earning Raitt a Grammy Award for Best Female Rock Vocal Performance. Its catchy melody, energetic instrumentation, and empowering lyrics made it a hit on mainstream radio and a fan favorite in Raitt’s extensive catalog.
“Thing Called Love” remains one of Bonnie Raitt’s most popular and enduring songs. Its infectious energy and relatable lyrics continue to resonate with listeners, making it a standout moment on the “Nick of Time” album and a beloved track among fans of Raitt’s blues-rock sound.
5. Nick of Time
“Nick of Time” is a song performed by Bonnie Raitt, released in 1989 on her album of the same name, “Nick of Time.” The song was written by Bonnie Raitt and was also the title track of the album.
“Nick of Time” is a reflective and introspective ballad, featuring Raitt’s soulful vocals accompanied by gentle acoustic guitar and piano arrangements. The lyrics explore themes of aging, mortality, and the passage of time, with Raitt expressing a sense of urgency and appreciation for life’s fleeting moments.
The song was a critical and commercial success, earning Raitt a Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance. Its heartfelt lyrics, emotive vocal delivery, and stripped-down instrumentation resonated with listeners, making it a standout track on the “Nick of Time” album.
“Nick of Time” remains one of Bonnie Raitt’s most beloved and enduring songs. Its timeless message and universal themes continue to resonate with audiences, solidifying its status as a classic in Raitt’s extensive catalog.
6. Angel from Montgomery
“Angel from Montgomery” is a song written by American singer-songwriter John Prine. It was first released on his 1971 self-titled debut album. However, Bonnie Raitt’s cover of “Angel from Montgomery” on her 1974 album “Streetlights” brought the song to greater prominence.
Bonnie Raitt’s rendition of “Angel from Montgomery” is a heartfelt and soulful interpretation of Prine’s original. With her distinctive voice and emotive delivery, Raitt captures the essence of the song’s protagonist, a woman yearning for a better life and reflecting on her hopes and regrets.
“Angel from Montgomery” has become one of Bonnie Raitt’s signature songs and is often considered one of the greatest country-folk songs ever written. Its poignant lyrics, evocative melody, and Raitt’s soulful performance have resonated with listeners for decades, making it a timeless classic in the folk and Americana genres.
7. You
“You” is a song by Bonnie Raitt, released on her 1994 album “Longing in Their Hearts.” The song was written by Bonnie Raitt and Was (Not Was) member David Was.
“You” is a soulful and introspective ballad that showcases Raitt’s emotive vocals and poignant songwriting. The lyrics express vulnerability and longing as the narrator reflects on the complexities of love and relationships. The song’s melody is accompanied by bluesy guitar riffs and subtle instrumentation, creating a melancholic yet beautiful atmosphere.
Although “You” wasn’t released as a single, it received critical acclaim and became a fan favorite from the album. Raitt’s heartfelt delivery and the song’s evocative lyrics have resonated with listeners, making it a standout track in her discography.
8. Have a Heart
“Have a Heart” is a song performed by Bonnie Raitt, released in 1989 on her album “Nick of Time.” The song was written by Bonnie Hayes.
“Have a Heart” is a blues-rock ballad featuring Raitt’s soulful vocals and powerful guitar playing. The song’s lyrics convey a message of empathy and understanding, urging someone to show compassion and kindness to another who is hurting.
The song was a commercial success, reaching high chart positions in the United States and earning Raitt a Grammy Award for Best Female Rock Vocal Performance. Its catchy melody, emotive delivery, and empowering message made it a hit on mainstream radio and a fan favorite in Raitt’s extensive catalog.
“Have a Heart” remains one of Bonnie Raitt’s most beloved and enduring songs. Its timeless appeal and universal message of compassion continue to resonate with listeners, making it a standout moment on the “Nick of Time” album and a beloved track among fans of Raitt’s blues-rock sound.
9. Love Letter
“Love Letter” is a song performed by Bonnie Raitt, released in 1998 on her album “Fundamental.” The song was written by Bonnie Hayes and Paul Kelly.
“Love Letter” is a blues-infused rock song featuring Raitt’s soulful vocals and gritty guitar playing. The song’s lyrics depict a heartfelt plea from the narrator to their lover, expressing a desire to reconcile and reconnect after a period of separation and heartache.
While “Love Letter” didn’t achieve the same level of commercial success as some of Raitt’s earlier hits, it received positive reviews from critics and remains a fan favorite among followers of her music. Raitt’s emotive delivery and the song’s infectious groove make it a standout track on the “Fundamental” album.
10. Love Me Like a Man
“Love Me Like a Man” is a blues song performed by Bonnie Raitt, originally written by Chris Smither. It was included on Raitt’s 1972 album “Give It Up.”
In “Love Me Like a Man,” Raitt delivers a powerful and assertive vocal performance, accompanied by bluesy guitar licks and a driving rhythm. The song’s lyrics explore themes of desire, independence, and equality in relationships, with Raitt demanding to be loved and treated with respect “like a man.”
Raitt’s rendition of “Love Me Like a Man” became one of her signature songs, showcasing her exceptional skill as a blues guitarist and her ability to infuse soul and emotion into her performances. The song has been praised for its authenticity and has become a staple of Raitt’s live shows throughout her career.