Bonnie Raitt is an American singer, songwriter, and musician who is widely regarded as one of the greatest blues and slide guitar players of all time. Born in California in 1949, Raitt began her music career in the 1970s and quickly gained recognition for her soulful voice and her skillful playing.
Raitt’s music is characterized by her distinctive voice, her bluesy guitar work, and her focus on themes such as love, heartbreak, and social justice. Some of her most famous songs include “I Can’t Make You Love Me,” “Something to Talk About,” and “Love Sneakin’ Up on You.”
Throughout her career, Raitt has released over 20 albums and won numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. She is also known for her collaborations with other musicians, including John Prine and Bruce Springsteen.
In addition to her music career, Raitt has also been involved in various philanthropic efforts, particularly those related to the environment and social justice causes.
Raitt’s music and legacy continue to be celebrated and admired by fans and musicians around the world. She remains one of the most important and influential figures in the history of blues and rock music, and her contributions to the genre will be felt for generations to come.
1. “Love Me Like a Man” (1972)
This timeless Bonnie Raitt classic from 1972, known as “Love Me Like a Man”, showcases her soulful voice and bluesy style. The song's upbeat tempo and catchy hooks make it one of the most well-known tracks in her catalog. The cleverly crafted lyrics express a woman's desire to be treated with respect and love. It’s been said that Bonnie Raitt personifies this song, making it a staple in her live performances over the years.
Continuing on the list of the best Bonnie Raitt songs of all time, we come to an upbeat blues tune that is beloved by fans worldwide. With its iconic guitar riffs and emotional lyrics, the song has stood the test of time since its release nearly fifty years ago in 1972. “Love Me Like A Man” is a must-see live performance that showcases Raitt's impressive vocal range and signature slide guitar playing.
Despite being released almost half a century ago, this classic track continues to resonate with audiences today. In addition to its catchy melodies and memorable lyrics, “Love Me Like A Man” also represents an important message about gender equality that still resonates with people around the globe.
It is said that Bonnie Raitt wrote this passionate song during a tumultuous period in her personal life when she was struggling to find balance between her music career and personal relationships. This real-life experience adds depth and meaning to her performance of “Love Me Like A Man” which only further cements its place among her greatest hits.
Listening to Bonnie Raitt sing ‘Angel of Montgomery’ is like being serenaded by a heavenly choir composed entirely of sassy, whiskey-drinking angels.
2. “Angel of Montgomery” (1974)
This entry in the list is a timeless classic from Bonnie Raitt, released in 1974, and known as 'The Angel from Montgomery'. The song's silky-smooth melody is perfectly suited to Raitt's soulful voice. The lyrics – depicting a woman trapped by domesticity who dreams of escape – are both affecting and relatable.
This song was not written by Raitt but rather John Prine who brilliantly infused the essence of a hopeful victim with perfect balladry. Raitt’s performances of this much-loved track has been the highlight of her concerts for over four decades now.
Don't let the title fool you, this 'Thing Called Love' is more addictive than crack (or so I've heard).
3. “Thing Called Love” (1989)
This Bonnie Raitt classic from 1989 brings out the beauty and energy of love in a unique way. The upbeat melody mixes perfectly with her soulful voice, wasting no time in bringing listeners to the dance floor. "Thing Called Love" is a perfect tribute to the strong, undeniable force that love can be.
No other song captures the magic of young love quite like "Thing Called Love". With lyrics like "I ain't complainin' you do the best with what you got", it's clear that Bonnie Raitt knows exactly what she's talking about when it comes to relationships. The guitar work is also exceptional, keeping things energetic and uplifting throughout.
What sets this song apart, however, is its balance between playful joy and heart-wrenching vulnerability. This isn't just another generic love song – it showcases all the nuance and complexity of one of the world's most powerful emotions. Even decades later, this '89 hit stands as a testament to Bonnie Raitt's songwriting talent.
Listen closely to "Thing Called Love" and you'll start hearing why so many people still turn to Bonnie Raitt for musical inspiration even now. Don't miss out on her amazing body of work – there are few artists who can craft such remarkable tributes to life's greatest joys and sorrows alike.
Even if you're not a fan of Bonnie Raitt, 'Nick of Time' will make you believe in the power of a good midlife crisis.
4. “Nick of Time” (1989)
This track by Bonnie Raitt, released in 1989, holds a special place in her discography. This legendary song speaks to the passage of time and the trials that come with it. Its powerful lyrics and heartfelt melody make it resonate with listeners of all ages. The guitar work on this song is also exceptional, showcasing Raitt's skills as a musician.
"Nick of Time" was critically acclaimed upon its release, earning four Grammy Awards. It has become a staple part of Raitt's live shows and has been covered by many other artists over the years.
One interesting fact about "Nick of Time" is that it marked a turning point in Raitt's career. Following several albums that failed to achieve commercial success, this album turned things around for her and cemented her status as one of America's most beloved musicians.
Pro Tip: Listen to this song while driving down an open road. The wind in your hair, the sun on your face, and Bonnie's words filling your heart – it doesn't get much better than that.
Before Tinder, Bonnie Raitt sang about having something to talk about on a first date.
5. “Something to Talk About” (1991)
This Bonnie Raitt hit from 1991, focusing on gossip and hearsay, captivates the audience with its catchy chorus. “Something to Talk About” was a success, reaching the top five of the Billboard Hot 100 and earning a Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance. The upbeat tempo of the song serves as an excellent vehicle for Raitt’s distinctive voice, delivering a message of empowering oneself in the face of rumors and presumptions.
Raitt's "Something to Talk About" captivates listeners with its blend of acoustic guitar-driven riffs and bright pop sensibilities. The song builds on the classic rock-blues stylistic elements Raitt is renowned for while offering up a tune that brings people together in conversation. It stands out from her ballads by featuring punchy rhythms complementing Raitt’s vocal strengths which ultimately resonated well with fans. As such, this hit has become one of Bonnie Raitt's most beloved tracks.
It's worth noting that despite being released almost thirty years ago, “Something to Talk About” continues to be a staple on radio stations worldwide, thanks to its timeless appeal. Its resounding success speaks volumes towards Bonnie Raitt's enduring talent and impact on American music history.
From showcasing true blues-infused style to achieving mainstream commercial success with songs like this one – which captures audiences at first listen – there remains no doubt about Bonnie Raitt's legendary status within music industry circles today.
If this song doesn't make you cry, you might want to check if your heart is actually working.
6. “I Can’t Make You Love Me” (1991)
This 1991 hit track from Bonnie Raitt is a soulful yet heartbreakingly beautiful ballad. Its melancholic melody complements the poignant lyrics depicting the pain of unrequited love. The song's emotional appeal lies in Raitt's vocal delivery, hitting high notes with raw gusto and conveying an authentic sense of yearning. "I Can't Make You Love Me" remains one of the most celebrated songs of her illustrious career.
Listeners are easily drawn into its somber and mellow soundscape, making it highly relatable and emotionally impactful beyond its era. Raitt's ability to infuse intense emotions in her music has contributed significantly to her popularity as a songwriter and performer.
Beyoncé's cover further popularized the song in 2011, garnering renewed interest among younger listeners. Such enduring relevance is a testament to the timeless quality of this masterpiece.
Don't miss out on this soulful masterpiece that transcends time, listen to "I Can't Make You Love Me" today!
David Crosby joins Bonnie Raitt for a 'Circle Dance' that's more fun than a conga line at a wedding reception.
7. “Circle Dance,” featuring David Crosby (1994)
This song, featuring David Crosby and released in 1994, is one of the top ten best Bonnie Raitt songs of all time. Here are three reasons why:
- Lyrics that touch on themes of community, unity, dance, and love.
- A beautiful and soulful vocal performance by Bonnie Raitt, with David Crosby providing complementary backing vocals.
- An instrumental arrangement that blends folk, rock, and blues influences to create a unique and engaging sound.
Beyond these points, it's worth noting that “Circle Dance” was written by Raitt herself. The song appears on her Grammy-winning album "Longing in Their Hearts," which came out during a period of critical acclaim for Raitt. Demonstrating her range as both a songwriter and performer, this track is a standout example of her mastery of American roots music.
For those interested in exploring more music like “Circle Dance,” one suggestion might be to dig deeper into the work of the many talented musicians who contributed to the Longing in Their Hearts album. Another possibility is to seek out other collaborations between Bonnie Raitt and notable musical artists from across different genres – her willingness to experiment and collaborate has resulted in some truly memorable performances over the years. And for those looking to experience the magic of “Circle Dance” live, there are plenty of recordings available online capturing Bonnie Raitt playing the song in concert over the years – each performance unique but equally soulful.
If you're feeling nostalgic for a time you never experienced, give ‘The Ones We Couldn’t Be’ a listen and be transported to a world where you're cool, edgy, and probably smoking a cigarette.
8. “The Ones We Couldn’t Be” (2016)
This poignant masterpiece from Bonnie Raitt explores the idea of lovers who couldn't quite make it work. "The Ones We Couldn’t Be" was released in 2016, showcasing Raitt's unique ability to blend blues, rock and folk music into something entirely her own. The song features a haunting melody, with subtle instrumentation that perfectly complements Raitt's introspective lyrics.
Raitt's emotive vocals draw listeners in and allow them to fully experience the raw emotion of this song. "The Ones We Couldn’t Be" is a testament to the power of honesty and vulnerability in art, as Raitt shares her personal struggle with relationships and the ones that got away.
For fans of Bonnie Raitt or those who enjoy powerful ballads, "The Ones We Couldn’t Be" is an absolute must-listen. Its captivating melody and poignant lyrics leave a profound impact on all who hear it.
Pro Tip: Check out Bonnie Raitt's live performances of "The Ones We Couldn’t Be." Her energy and passion elevate the song to new heights, making for an unforgettable listening experience.
Can't wait for Bonnie to release 'Up the Stairs' and complete her architectural discography.
9. “Down the Hall” (2022)
This Bonnie Raitt song from 2022, takes the ninth spot on the list. “Down the Hall” is a heart-wrenching tune, showcasing Raitt’s talent for capturing raw emotions. The lyrics delve into the feeling of loneliness and missing someone who used to be close. The soulful guitar and Raitt’s gravelly vocals add to the poignancy of this melancholic tune.
Raitt’s fans will appreciate how she can make them feel with just a few simple lines. “Down the Hall” is proof of that empathy and connection she has with her listeners. This slow-paced track showcases Raitt's maturity as an artist who still knows how to tug at those heartstrings.
Listeners can hear a sense of reminiscence in each note of “Down the Hall”. In this song, Raitt shines through her ability to tell stories with such vivid emotion. It's no surprise that it made its way onto this "10 Best Bonnie Raitt Songs" list.
Interestingly, many fans have speculated about who inspired this tune. Despite rumors pointing towards one particular ex-boyfriend or lover, Raitt has yet to confirm who exactly was behind her emotional lyrics in "Down the Hall". But one thing is for sure – this song is a testament to Raitt's ability to craft meaningful music that stays powerful long after its release date.
Bonnie Raitt proves that age is just a number as she delivers a powerful and soulful performance in 'Just Like That', a song that will have you singing along in no time.
10. “Just Like That” (2022)
This track, released in 2022, is a mellow ballad that showcases Bonnie Raitt's signature smoky vocals and bluesy guitar playing. The lyrics depict introspection and self-discovery, as Bonnie muses on the transient nature of life and how everything can change "just like that." A standout from her latest album, this song demonstrates how Bonnie Raitt continues to evolve while staying true to her roots.
In "Just Like That," Bonnie Raitt proves once again why she is an icon in the music industry. Her soulful voice perfectly balances the emotional weight of the lyrics, while the gentle guitar melodies create a soothing backdrop. The song has received high praise from both fans and critics alike – a testament to the timeless quality of her music.
Fans have noticed that despite pushing 70 years old, Bonnie Raitt still has an incredible vocal range and can play guitar with ease. She has stayed relevant in an ever-changing industry by staying true to herself throughout her career.
According to Rolling Stone Magazine, "Just Like That" was written by esteemed songwriter John Prine shortly before his passing in 2020. This adds even more depth and meaning to the already poignant song.
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.
