Few artists have mastered the art of blending blues, rock, and country quite like Bonnie Raitt. With her signature slide guitar, smoky voice, and heartfelt lyrics, Raitt has carved out an enduring legacy that has touched generations of listeners. From her early days as a trailblazing female guitarist in a male-dominated industry to her rise as a Grammy-winning icon, Raitt’s music has always been rooted in raw emotion, authenticity, and a deep connection to her craft.
In this article, we’re diving into the top 10 most popular Bonnie Raitt songs of all time—a collection of hits that have defined her career and showcased her incredible range as an artist. Whether it’s the aching vulnerability of a ballad or the electrifying energy of a bluesy anthem, these tracks highlight why Raitt remains a beloved figure in the music world.
Get ready to revisit timeless classics, rediscover hidden gems, and celebrate the artistry of a woman whose music continues to resonate. So, sit back, turn up the volume, and let the soulful sounds of Bonnie Raitt remind you why she’s a living legend. Let’s count down the unforgettable songs that have made her a true icon!
1. “I Can’t Make You Love Me” (1991)
One of Bonnie Raitt’s most powerful and emotionally charged songs, “I Can’t Make You Love Me” has become a timeless classic. Featured on her Luck of the Draw album, the ballad was released in 1991 and quickly became one of her most iconic hits. The song delves deeply into the painful experience of unrequited love, capturing the vulnerability and heartache of wanting someone who doesn’t feel the same way. With its delicate piano arrangement and Raitt’s soulful, raw vocals, the track resonates with anyone who has experienced the anguish of loving someone without being able to make them feel the same. The song’s lyrical depth paints a picture of emotional surrender and personal growth, with the line “I can’t make you love me if you don’t” standing as a poignant declaration of acceptance. Raitt’s voice, rich with emotion, conveys the sadness and resignation of the song, yet there’s also a sense of strength and understanding in her delivery. The understated arrangement allows the lyrics and her vocals to take center stage, making the song even more impactful. “I Can’t Make You Love Me” earned widespread acclaim, reaching the top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming a favorite of both fans and critics alike. It’s a testament to Raitt’s incredible ability to capture complex emotions and turn them into a moving, universal experience. The song continues to be a staple in her live performances, where it often evokes powerful responses from the audience. It remains one of Raitt’s most enduring songs, a heartfelt reflection on love, loss, and the acceptance of what cannot be changed.
2. “Something to Talk About” (1991)
Released in 1991 as part of Luck of the Draw, “Something to Talk About” quickly became one of Bonnie Raitt’s most recognizable hits. The song’s lively, bluesy vibe captures the excitement of an unexpected romance, with a hint of mischief and curiosity. Written by Raitt and her co-writer, she channels a sense of playful intrigue throughout the song, which is both fun and infectious. With its catchy hook and upbeat tempo, the song tells the story of two people whose relationship is the subject of gossip, sparking rumors and speculation. But instead of shying away from the attention, the song’s narrator embraces it, confidently walking into the spotlight. Raitt’s performance on this track is filled with energy and charm, and her vocal delivery reflects the joy and spontaneity of the situation. The track also stands out for its bluesy guitar riff, with Raitt’s signature slide guitar adding a distinctive edge that brings the song to life. “Something to Talk About” was an immediate hit, reaching the top 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning Raitt a Grammy Award for Best Pop Vocal Performance. Its success was a testament to her ability to take a playful concept and turn it into a memorable and relatable anthem. The song remains a fan favorite and continues to be a staple in Raitt’s live performances. Its lively beat and cheeky lyrics make it a perfect addition to any setlist, and its continued popularity proves that Raitt’s ability to capture both the serious and the lighthearted moments of life is unparalleled.
3. “Love Sneakin’ Up On You” (1994)
From her 1994 album Longing in Their Hearts, “Love Sneakin’ Up On You” is an energetic, blues-rock anthem that captures the exhilarating and unpredictable nature of love. With its irresistible groove and driving rhythm, the song tells the story of someone caught off guard by the power of love, which arrives unexpectedly and sweeps them off their feet. Raitt’s commanding vocals perfectly convey the thrill and excitement that love can bring, with her performance adding an infectious energy that propels the song forward. The track’s upbeat tempo and punchy instrumentation make it a standout on Longing in Their Hearts, and its catchy hook quickly captured the attention of listeners. The song earned Raitt a Grammy nomination and peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart, further solidifying her place as a blues and rock powerhouse. Lyrically, “Love Sneakin’ Up On You” explores the idea of falling in love when you least expect it, with the feeling creeping up on you like a thief in the night. The song’s catchy chorus, with Raitt’s signature slide guitar and dynamic rhythm section, gives it an anthemic quality that made it a favorite among fans. “Love Sneakin’ Up On You” showcases Raitt’s ability to blend elements of rock, blues, and pop into a smooth, infectious sound that resonates with listeners of all ages. It remains one of Raitt’s most beloved songs, often included in her live performances where it continues to captivate audiences with its energy and emotion. The track serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of love and the joy that comes with embracing it.
4. “Nick of Time” (1989)
The title track from Bonnie Raitt’s breakthrough album, Nick of Time, is a deeply reflective ballad about aging, love, and the wisdom that comes with the passage of time. Released in 1989, the song marked a pivotal moment in Raitt’s career, propelling her into the mainstream and earning her multiple Grammy Awards. “Nick of Time” is a meditative reflection on the fleeting nature of life and the importance of making the most of the present. Raitt’s warm, soulful vocals infuse the song with a sense of introspection, as she sings about the realizations that come with growing older and the desire to not let time slip away unnoticed. The lyrics convey a sense of urgency and longing, with Raitt acknowledging that there is only so much time to act on love and personal growth. The piano-driven arrangement complements the song’s reflective tone, providing a gentle yet poignant backdrop for Raitt’s voice. “Nick of Time” resonated with listeners, particularly those in the midst of their own life transitions, as it spoke to the universal experience of coming to terms with the passage of time. The song became an anthem for those who found themselves at a crossroads, making it a standout track on an album that cemented Raitt’s legacy as a powerful and insightful songwriter. It went on to win the Grammy for Album of the Year, and the song itself continues to be a favorite among Raitt’s fans. With its themes of reflection and acceptance, “Nick of Time” has become a timeless classic, reminding listeners of the importance of living in the moment and embracing the beauty of life, no matter the stage.
5. “Angel from Montgomery” (1974)
Originally written by the legendary John Prine, Bonnie Raitt’s 1974 rendition of “Angel from Montgomery” is a stunning, emotionally charged performance that has since become one of her signature songs. Featured on her Streetlights album, Raitt’s version of the song captures the poignant storytelling of Prine’s original while infusing it with her own soulful interpretation. The song tells the story of a woman who feels trapped in a mundane life and longs for an escape, hoping for an “angel” to come and take her away. With its simple yet powerful lyrics, “Angel from Montgomery” is a song of yearning and longing, a cry for something more than the ordinary life she’s living. Raitt’s vocal delivery is nothing short of breathtaking, as she takes the listener into the heart of the character’s emotional struggles. Her voice, full of empathy and emotion, perfectly complements the song’s melancholic tone. What makes Raitt’s rendition so special is the way she brings her own depth and feeling to the song, turning it into a personal statement that resonates deeply with anyone who has ever felt dissatisfied or unfulfilled. “Angel from Montgomery” became a fan favorite and is often regarded as one of Raitt’s greatest performances. It perfectly showcases her ability to take a classic song and make it her own, giving it new life and meaning. The song has remained a staple in her live shows, and its heartfelt lyrics continue to resonate with audiences all over the world, making it a beloved part of her catalog. Raitt’s 1974 version of “Angel from Montgomery” remains a defining moment in her career, a heartfelt tribute to the power of music to express the deepest human emotions.
6. “Runaway” (1977)
Bonnie Raitt’s cover of Del Shannon’s classic 1961 hit “Runaway” from her 1977 album Sweet Forgiveness is a masterful reinvention that blends rock, blues, and Raitt’s signature style into a fresh, soulful take on the original. Raitt’s rendition brings a bluesy edge to the song, with her soulful vocals and slide guitar giving the track a new dimension. Originally a pop hit for Shannon, “Runaway” tells the story of someone who feels trapped in a relationship and yearns for freedom. Raitt’s interpretation captures this sense of longing and restlessness, infusing it with her own distinctive style. Her slide guitar playing, which became one of her signature elements, gives the song a gritty, emotional edge that makes it stand out from the original. The song’s upbeat tempo and Raitt’s fiery performance make it an irresistible listen, and her vocal delivery brings a sense of urgency and passion to the lyrics. The track was well-received by critics and fans alike, with many praising Raitt for taking a classic rock ‘n’ roll song and making it her own. “Runaway” became one of the highlights of Sweet Forgiveness, showcasing Raitt’s versatility and ability to reinterpret songs in her own unique style. The track also gained significant airplay on radio stations and became a favorite during her live performances. Raitt’s take on “Runaway” proved to be one of her most successful covers, and it continues to be a beloved song in her catalog, representing her ability to transform a familiar tune into something fresh and exciting.
7. “Have a Heart” (1989)
From her Nick of Time album, “Have a Heart” is an upbeat and infectious track that captures Bonnie Raitt’s signature blend of blues, pop, and rock. Released in 1989, the song features an upbeat rhythm and catchy chorus that makes it a fun, radio-friendly hit. The lyrics of “Have a Heart” express a plea for understanding and compassion in relationships, with the narrator asking for emotional openness and vulnerability from their partner. Raitt’s vocal delivery is both warm and impassioned, adding an emotional depth to the track that elevates it beyond its catchy melody. The song’s upbeat tempo and infectious rhythm make it a favorite in Raitt’s live performances, where it often encourages fans to sing along and dance to its lively beat. The track’s infectious chorus, with Raitt’s soulful voice leading the charge, is one of the key elements that makes it such a memorable song. The song also features Raitt’s trademark slide guitar work, which adds a touch of bluesy flair to the song’s otherwise pop-rock vibe. “Have a Heart” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart and further establishing Raitt as a versatile artist capable of blending different genres into one cohesive sound. The track’s catchy hook and relatable lyrics about love and understanding have made it a fan favorite, and its upbeat message of emotional connection and compassion continues to resonate with audiences today. “Have a Heart” remains one of Raitt’s most beloved songs, a testament to her ability to create music that speaks to the heart while also moving the feet.
8. “Thing Called Love” (1989)
Released in 1989 as part of Nick of Time, “Thing Called Love” is a powerful, fiery track that showcases Bonnie Raitt’s ability to merge rock, blues, and country into a seamless, high-energy anthem about the complexities of love. Originally written by John Hiatt, Raitt’s version of the song takes the lyrics to new heights, with her fiery slide guitar and passionate vocal delivery giving the track an electrifying energy. The song tells the story of someone who is deeply in love, but also caught in the whirlwind of emotions that come with it. The narrator struggles to understand the intensity and unpredictability of love, asking the question, “What is this thing called love?” Raitt’s interpretation of the song is electric, with her soulful voice perfectly capturing the confusion, passion, and excitement of being in love. The track’s rhythm section, driven by a pulsing beat, adds to the song’s energy, while Raitt’s signature slide guitar work elevates the track’s intensity. “Thing Called Love” became a fan favorite, and its infectious energy made it a standout on Nick of Time. The song also became a staple in Raitt’s live performances, where her fiery performance and skilled guitar playing always bring the track to life. Raitt’s version of “Thing Called Love” is a testament to her ability to take a song and make it her own, imbuing it with her unique style and emotional depth. It remains one of her most popular tracks, a high-octane anthem about the chaotic, exhilarating nature of love.
9. “Not the Only One” (1991)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1KtidyhgXFI&pp=ygUZIk5vdCB0aGUgT25seSBPbmUiICgxOTkxKQ%3D%3D
Featured on Luck of the Draw, Bonnie Raitt’s “Not the Only One” is a soulful ballad about love, forgiveness, and the hope for second chances. Released in 1991, the song’s tender lyrics and heartfelt delivery resonate with anyone who has ever sought redemption or forgiveness in a relationship. Raitt’s voice, warm and rich with emotion, brings an incredible depth to the song, as she sings about the complexities of love and the desire to heal wounds from the past. The song’s gentle piano arrangement creates a soft, intimate backdrop for Raitt’s voice, allowing her emotional performance to shine through. “Not the Only One” speaks to the universal experience of facing mistakes and trying to make amends, with the narrator acknowledging that they may not be the only one to blame in the relationship. It’s a song about vulnerability, understanding, and the hope for reconciliation. The song was a hit on the Adult Contemporary charts and became a fan favorite for its relatable message and Raitt’s heartfelt delivery. “Not the Only One” continues to be a staple in Raitt’s live shows, where its emotional power always strikes a chord with the audience. It stands as a testament to Raitt’s incredible ability to craft songs that resonate with listeners on a deeply personal level, and its tender lyrics and soulful melody make it one of the highlights of her catalog.
10. “Guilty” (1974)
From Bonnie Raitt’s Streetlights album, “Guilty” is a soulful, blues-infused track that showcases Raitt’s ability to convey raw, emotional depth through her music. Released in 1974, the song explores the feelings of regret and introspection that come with realizing the mistakes made in a relationship. “Guilty” is a reflective song, with the narrator expressing feelings of shame and responsibility for the pain they’ve caused their partner. Raitt’s emotive performance captures the complexity of guilt and remorse, and her vocal delivery is filled with emotion as she sings about trying to atone for her mistakes. The song’s bluesy arrangement features a strong rhythm section and a standout guitar solo, which complements Raitt’s heartfelt vocals. “Guilty” is a deeply personal song, one that invites the listener to reflect on their own mistakes and the ways in which guilt can affect relationships. The track was well-received by critics and fans alike, and its introspective nature made it a standout on Streetlights. It remains one of Raitt’s most enduring songs, a testament to her ability to capture the complexities of human emotion with authenticity and grace. “Guilty” is a song that continues to resonate with listeners, reminding us of the power of music to express the deepest feelings of regret and longing. It remains an essential part of Bonnie Raitt’s catalog, a song that speaks to the heart of the human experience.
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.
