Bonnie Raitt is an acclaimed American blues and slide guitar player, singer, and songwriter, born in 1949. She gained prominence in the 1970s for her unique blend of blues, rock, and folk music, coupled with her distinctive slide guitar playing and soulful vocals. Raitt’s career spans several decades, marked by numerous Grammy Awards and critical acclaim for albums like “Nick of Time” and “Luck of the Draw.” Known for her emotive voice and socially conscious lyrics, Raitt’s music often explores themes of love, heartache, and social justice. She continues to be a respected figure in the music industry, celebrated for her musical integrity and contributions to American roots music.
1. Angel from Montgomery
“Angel from Montgomery” is a poignant song written by John Prine, but it’s closely associated with Bonnie Raitt due to her soulful rendition. The song reflects on themes of longing, regret, and the search for meaning in life. It tells the story of a woman who feels trapped in a mundane existence and yearns for a way out, expressing a deep sense of yearning and introspection. Raitt’s emotive vocals and expressive guitar playing bring a heartfelt depth to the song, making it a standout in her repertoire and a favorite among fans of folk and Americana music.
2. Runaway
This song is from Bonnie Raitt’s album “Sweet Forgiveness,” released in 1977. It’s a catchy and bluesy track that showcases Raitt’s soulful vocals and slide guitar skills. “Runaway” became a fan favorite for its infectious rhythm and energetic performance, demonstrating Raitt’s ability to blend rock, blues, and folk influences into her own distinctive style.
3. Love Me Like a Man
“Love Me Like a Man” is a blues song written by Chris Smither and performed by Bonnie Raitt. It was included on her 1972 album “Give It Up.” The song’s lyrics express a desire for a partner who is strong and honest, able to love deeply and passionately. Raitt’s soulful vocals and bluesy guitar playing give the song a raw and emotional edge, typical of her early work. “Love Me Like a Man” has become one of Raitt’s signature songs, showcasing her powerful voice and skillful guitar playing.
4. I Can’t Make You Love Me
“I Can’t Make You Love Me” is a soulful ballad written by Mike Reid and Allen Shamblin, and popularized by Bonnie Raitt on her 1991 album “Luck of the Draw.” The song is renowned for its poignant lyrics, which convey the heartache of unrequited love and the acceptance of a relationship’s end. Raitt’s emotive delivery, coupled with the song’s minimalist arrangement, creates a powerful and haunting atmosphere. “I Can’t Make You Love Me” has since become a classic, covered by numerous artists across different genres, and is celebrated for its emotional depth and universal themes of love and loss.
5. Something to Talk About
“Something to Talk About” – This upbeat and catchy track was released in 1991 as part of her album “Luck of the Draw.” It became one of her biggest hits, known for its infectious melody, bluesy guitar riffs, and Raitt’s soulful vocals. The song explores themes of gossip and speculation surrounding romantic relationships, with Raitt’s spirited performance making it a favorite among fans of rock, blues, and pop music.
6. Love Sneakin’ Up On You
“Love Sneakin’ Up On You” is a lively blues-rock song by Bonnie Raitt, released in 1994 on her album “Longing in Their Hearts.” The track features Raitt’s signature slide guitar playing and soulful vocals, along with a catchy melody and upbeat rhythm. The lyrics speak of unexpected love and the joy it brings, with Raitt’s vocals expressing a sense of excitement and liberation. “Love Sneakin’ Up On You” was a commercial success, earning Raitt a Grammy Award for Best Female Rock Vocal Performance in 1995. The song’s infectious energy and Raitt’s masterful performance make it a standout track in her discography.
7. Nick of Time
“Nick of Time” is a Grammy-winning album by Bonnie Raitt, released in 1989. The title track, “Nick of Time,” is a poignant ballad that reflects on life, aging, and finding love at a critical moment. Raitt’s heartfelt vocals and soulful guitar playing define the album, which marked a comeback in her career and garnered widespread acclaim. The album explores themes of personal growth, resilience, and emotional vulnerability, resonating with listeners for its sincerity and musical craftsmanship. “Nick of Time” remains a milestone in Raitt’s career, earning her multiple Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year.
8. Have a Heart -Thing Called Love
“Have a Heart” and “Thing Called Love” are both popular songs by Bonnie Raitt. “Have a Heart” is a blues-rock song from her 1989 album “Nick of Time.” The song features Raitt’s soulful vocals and slide guitar playing, with lyrics that express vulnerability and longing in a relationship.
“Thing Called Love” is another blues-rock song, this time from Raitt’s 1989 album “Nick of Time.” The song has a more upbeat and lively feel compared to “Have a Heart,” with a strong rhythm and catchy chorus. The lyrics of “Thing Called Love” celebrate the power of love and its ability to bring joy and fulfillment.
Both songs were well-received by critics and fans alike, and they helped to solidify Bonnie Raitt’s reputation as a talented singer-songwriter and musician in the blues-rock genre.
9. Love Letter
“Love Letter” is a song by Bonnie Raitt, featured on her album “Nick of Time” released in 1989. The track is a soulful ballad that showcases Raitt’s emotive vocals and blues-infused guitar style. “Love Letter” explores themes of love, longing, and heartache, with lyrics that convey deep emotion and introspection. The song’s melodic hooks and Raitt’s heartfelt delivery make it a standout in her repertoire, resonating with listeners for its raw honesty and musical depth. “Love Letter” exemplifies Raitt’s ability to blend blues, rock, and folk influences into a compelling narrative that speaks to the complexities of romantic relationships.
10. Let’s Give Them Something to Talk About
“Let’s Give Them Something to Talk About” is a lively country-pop song by Bonnie Raitt, released in 1991 on her album “Luck of the Draw.” The song features a catchy melody, upbeat tempo, and Raitt’s soulful vocals. The lyrics playfully suggest starting a romantic relationship that would give people something to gossip about, highlighting the excitement and spontaneity of new love. “Let’s Give Them Something to Talk About” became one of Raitt’s biggest hits, reaching the top 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and earning her a Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance. The song’s catchy chorus and relatable theme have made it a favorite among fans of Raitt’s music.