Few artists have left as indelible a mark on the world of music as Bonnie Raitt. With a soulful blend of blues, rock, folk, and country, Raitt’s unmistakable voice and masterful slide guitar playing have earned her a place among music’s all-time greats. Over the course of her legendary career, she has delivered a string of timeless hits that resonate across generations, captivating fans with her raw emotion, poignant lyrics, and effortless musicianship. From heart-wrenching ballads to electrifying anthems, Bonnie Raitt’s music has a unique way of speaking directly to the soul, making her songs universally beloved.
In this article, we take a journey through her most iconic tracks, celebrating the Top 10 most popular Bonnie Raitt songs of all time. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering her brilliance for the first time, these selections highlight the very best of what she has to offer — songs that have not only defined her career but have also become anthems of love, longing, and resilience. So, grab your headphones and prepare to dive into the unforgettable world of Bonnie Raitt, where every note tells a story and every lyric hits home.
1. “I Can’t Make You Love Me” (1991)
This heart-wrenching ballad, released in 1991 on the Luck of the Draw album, is arguably Bonnie Raitt’s most iconic song. “I Can’t Make You Love Me” tells a story of unrequited love and emotional vulnerability, where the narrator comes to terms with the painful truth that love cannot be forced. Raitt’s tender and soulful vocals, combined with the poignant piano arrangement, create a deeply moving experience that has resonated with listeners for decades. The song’s universal theme of heartbreak and resignation, paired with Raitt’s delicate but powerful delivery, makes it timeless. It has since become a pop culture staple, covered by numerous artists but never quite surpassing the emotional weight that Raitt brings to the original.
2. “Something to Talk About” (1991)
From the first guitar riff, “Something to Talk About” grabs your attention with its infectious energy. Featured on Luck of the Draw, this 1991 hit was a departure from the more melancholic tones of Raitt’s previous work, showcasing her ability to blend rock, blues, and pop seamlessly. The song’s playful lyrics about small-town gossip and budding romance are delivered with Raitt’s signature swagger and confidence. The catchy chorus is impossible to resist, and Raitt’s slide guitar work adds that extra flair. It’s a feel-good anthem that still makes you want to sing along every time it comes on.
3. “Nick of Time” (1989)
“Nick of Time,” the title track from Raitt’s 1989 breakthrough album, sees the artist reflecting on life, aging, and love in a deeply personal way. The song’s heartfelt lyrics touch on the anxieties of growing older and the desire to find love before time runs out. Raitt’s vocals are both vulnerable and powerful, a testament to her emotional depth as a performer. The song became a defining moment in her career, not just for its introspective lyrics, but also for how it marked Raitt’s return to the spotlight after years of industry struggles. It’s a song that resonates with anyone who’s ever felt the pressure of time slipping away.
4. “Love Sneakin’ Up on You” (1994)
Released as part of the Longing in Their Hearts album in 1994, “Love Sneakin’ Up on You” is Bonnie Raitt at her most playful and energetic. The song’s upbeat tempo, funky groove, and irresistible chorus make it a standout track in Raitt’s catalog. Lyrically, it’s about love catching you off guard, and the music mirrors that sense of excitement and spontaneity. Raitt’s guitar work shines brightly here, with her signature slide guitar adding an extra layer of grit and fun to the track. It’s a reminder of Raitt’s versatility, effortlessly blending blues with a pop sensibility.
5. “Angel from Montgomery” (1974)
Originally written by John Prine, Bonnie Raitt made “Angel from Montgomery” her own in 1974 on the Streetlights album. The song tells the story of a woman trapped in a life of unfulfilled dreams, yearning for freedom and change. Raitt’s interpretation of the song is filled with raw emotion, with her voice embodying the weariness and heartache of the narrator. The song became a staple of her live performances and has remained one of her most beloved tracks. Raitt’s ability to connect so deeply with the song’s melancholy lyrics has cemented “Angel from Montgomery” as a signature piece in her career.
6. “Have a Heart” (1989)
“Have a Heart” is a standout track from Raitt’s critically acclaimed Nick of Time album, released in 1989. The song merges blues and pop with a hint of reggae, creating a laid-back yet emotionally charged atmosphere. Raitt sings about standing up for oneself in a relationship, demanding respect and honesty from a partner. The catchy melody and Raitt’s smooth vocal delivery make this song an anthem for empowerment. It’s a reminder that Raitt, while known for her ballads, can also deliver an upbeat, feel-good message with equal power.
7. “Runaway” (1977)
In 1977, Bonnie Raitt took on a cover of Del Shannon’s classic hit “Runaway” and made it her own. Featured on her Sweet Forgiveness album, Raitt’s version is slower and more blues-infused than the original, showcasing her unique vocal phrasing and slide guitar expertise. The song’s theme of heartbreak and longing fits perfectly with Raitt’s soulful style, and her rendition quickly became a fan favorite. The combination of Raitt’s raspy vocals and the haunting melody makes this cover one of her most memorable performances.
8. “Thing Called Love” (1989)
“Thing Called Love” is another gem from the Nick of Time album, released in 1989. Written by John Hiatt, the song is a playful take on love and relationships, with Raitt delivering the lyrics with a blend of sass and charm. The song’s bluesy groove is infectious, and Raitt’s confident vocal performance elevates the track to new heights. The song became one of Raitt’s biggest hits and a live concert favorite, embodying her ability to make any song feel personal and intimate.
9. “Not the Only One” (1991)
“Not the Only One,” from Raitt’s Luck of the Draw album, is a soulful exploration of love and connection. Released in 1991, the song features Raitt’s smooth yet passionate vocals, layered over a rich arrangement of guitar, piano, and backing vocals. The lyrics speak to the universal experience of finding comfort in a relationship, knowing that you’re not alone in your feelings. The song’s warmth and sincerity make it a standout track, and Raitt’s heartfelt delivery leaves a lasting impact.
10. “Guilty” (1973)
Originally written by Randy Newman, Bonnie Raitt’s version of “Guilty,” from her 1973 album Takin’ My Time, is a slow-burning, bluesy ballad that showcases her emotional depth and musical finesse. Raitt’s smoky vocals capture the essence of regret and sorrow, making the listener feel every ounce of guilt and heartache conveyed in the lyrics. Her tender interpretation of the song, combined with her impeccable slide guitar work, solidified “Guilty” as one of her early classics. It’s a masterclass in subtlety and emotion, proving that Raitt can deliver a powerful performance with minimal instrumentation.
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.
