Few artists possess the ability to blend soul, blues, rock, and country as seamlessly as Bonnie Raitt. With her signature slide guitar, smoky voice, and deeply emotional lyrics, Bonnie has carved out a legendary career that spans over five decades. From poignant ballads to electrifying anthems, her music transcends generations, captivating audiences with its raw authenticity and heartfelt storytelling.
Bonnie Raitt is more than just a musician—she’s a trailblazer. As one of the most respected female artists in rock history, she’s not only earned countless accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards, but also a place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Her songs resonate with themes of love, heartbreak, resilience, and self-discovery, leaving an indelible mark on listeners around the globe.
In this article, we take you on a journey through Bonnie Raitt’s greatest hits—the songs that have defined her career and touched millions of hearts. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to her music, this list of her top 10 most popular songs is sure to remind you why Bonnie Raitt remains one of the most iconic and beloved artists of all time. Let’s dive into the magic!
1. “I Can’t Make You Love Me” (1991)
Few songs capture the pain of unrequited love as poignantly as I Can’t Make You Love Me. Featured on Bonnie Raitt’s 1991 album Luck of the Draw, this heartbreaking ballad was written by Mike Reid and Allen Shamblin and has since become one of the most emotionally stirring songs in modern music.
The song’s gentle piano introduction immediately sets a somber, reflective tone, drawing the listener into the depths of heartbreak. Bonnie’s voice, raw yet controlled, conveys a quiet resignation—she’s not begging for love but rather acknowledging a painful truth. The lyrics tell the story of someone who realizes that no matter how much they love another person, they cannot force those feelings to be reciprocated. It’s a universal pain, one that anyone who has ever loved in vain can relate to.
What makes I Can’t Make You Love Me even more powerful is its simplicity. There’s no overproduction or dramatic climax—just Bonnie’s soulful delivery and a sparse, melancholy arrangement that allows every word to hit like a dagger to the heart. The song’s legacy has endured for decades, with countless artists covering it, yet Bonnie’s version remains definitive. It’s not just a song; it’s an experience, a moment of vulnerability frozen in time.
2. “Something to Talk About” (1991)
With its bluesy groove and playful lyrics, Something to Talk About is a song that exudes confidence, sass, and pure fun. Released on Luck of the Draw, this Grammy-winning hit became one of Bonnie Raitt’s most recognizable tracks, proving that she could effortlessly balance heartfelt ballads with upbeat anthems.
The song’s premise is both humorous and relatable—a pair of friends caught in a whirlwind of gossip that suggests they’re more than just friends. Rather than deny it, the song’s narrator embraces the idea, playfully suggesting that maybe the rumors could lead to something real. Bonnie’s delivery is full of warmth and mischief, making it impossible not to smile while listening.
Musically, Something to Talk About is built on a rich, blues-influenced arrangement, featuring a steady rhythm, bright guitar riffs, and Bonnie’s unmistakable, raspy vocals. The song became an instant crowd-pleaser, its infectious chorus begging to be sung along to.
Decades later, Something to Talk About remains a staple of Bonnie’s live performances and a feel-good anthem that reminds us not to take life—or love—too seriously. It’s the perfect blend of wit, charm, and classic rock energy.
3. “Angel From Montgomery” (1974)
Originally written by folk legend John Prine, Angel From Montgomery became one of Bonnie Raitt’s most beloved songs when she recorded it for her Streetlights album in 1974. Her version transformed it into a hauntingly beautiful ballad, filled with longing and quiet despair.
The song tells the story of a woman trapped in a mundane, unfulfilling life, reminiscing about lost youth and dreams that never came to fruition. The lyrics are raw and vivid—”If dreams were thunder, lightning was desire, this old house would have burned down a long time ago”—painting a picture of a person who has settled into resignation.
Bonnie’s vocal delivery is drenched in emotion, her voice aching with the weight of the character’s regrets. The sparse instrumentation, led by acoustic guitar and a gentle backing arrangement, allows the lyrics to take center stage. While Prine wrote the song from a male perspective, Bonnie’s rendition gave it a new depth, making it an anthem for women who have ever felt trapped in their own lives.
Angel From Montgomery remains one of Bonnie’s most requested songs in concert, a testament to its timeless ability to resonate with listeners on a deeply personal level.
4. “Love Sneakin’ Up On You” (1994)
Love Sneakin’ Up On You is Bonnie Raitt at her bluesy best. Released on her 1994 album Longing in Their Hearts, the song is a fiery mix of blues and rock, driven by a foot-stomping rhythm and Bonnie’s signature slide guitar.
The track bursts with energy from the opening riff, setting the tone for a song about love arriving when you least expect it. The lyrics paint love as an unstoppable force, creeping up on you when you’re not looking. It’s playful yet powerful, perfectly matching the song’s driving beat. Bonnie’s husky, confident vocals give the track an undeniable swagger, making it an irresistible listen.
Beyond its catchy groove, Love Sneakin’ Up On You is a masterclass in musicianship. Bonnie’s guitar work is fiery and expressive, seamlessly blending with the song’s tight instrumentation. The production keeps things raw and organic, allowing the song to maintain a sense of spontaneity and grit.
This song became a standout hit for Bonnie in the mid-’90s, earning a Grammy nomination and reaffirming her place as one of the most dynamic artists in rock and blues. Even today, it remains a feel-good anthem that’s impossible to resist.
5. “Nick of Time” (1989)
Few songs capture the bittersweet passage of time quite like Nick of Time, the title track from Bonnie Raitt’s 1989 breakthrough album. This song isn’t just a reflection on aging—it’s a deeply personal meditation on love, self-discovery, and the moments that define us.
Written by Bonnie herself, Nick of Time has a warmth and sincerity that makes it feel like a conversation with an old friend. The lyrics touch on different stages of life—young couples trying to make love last, middle-aged people realizing time is slipping away, and older individuals wondering if they’ll find companionship again. It’s a song that resonates with listeners of all ages because it speaks to universal truths about life and love.
Musically, the track is laid-back yet rich, featuring smooth instrumentation that blends blues, folk, and pop influences. Bonnie’s vocal delivery is tender and introspective, carrying an emotional weight that lingers long after the song ends. The production keeps things simple, allowing the lyrics and Bonnie’s heartfelt performance to take center stage.
Winning the Grammy for Album of the Year, Nick of Time marked a career renaissance for Bonnie, proving that it’s never too late for a second chance. More than 30 years later, it remains a song of hope, reminding us that love and change can come just when we need them most.
6. “Thing Called Love” (1989)
With its playful swagger and irresistible groove, Thing Called Love became one of Bonnie Raitt’s signature songs. Written by John Hiatt and included on her Nick of Time album, this track is a blues-rock powerhouse that perfectly showcases Bonnie’s charm, wit, and masterful slide guitar playing.
The song’s lyrics are a confident declaration of love and desire, delivered with a wink and a smile. Bonnie’s vocal performance is full of attitude, making it clear that she’s not one to sit around and wait—she’s going after what she wants. The bluesy guitar licks and rhythmic groove add to the song’s magnetic energy, making it impossible not to tap your foot along.
One of the highlights of Thing Called Love is its infectious chorus, which begs to be sung at full volume. The combination of Bonnie’s powerful voice and the song’s punchy instrumentation creates an electrifying listening experience. It’s a track that radiates joy and confidence, standing out as a fan favorite at live shows.
More than just a hit song, Thing Called Love helped solidify Bonnie’s resurgence in the late ’80s, proving that her bluesy brand of rock was as vital and exciting as ever.
7. “Runaway” (1977)
Bonnie Raitt’s cover of Del Shannon’s 1961 classic Runaway is a prime example of how an artist can take a well-known song and make it entirely their own. Released on her Sweet Forgiveness album in 1977, Bonnie’s version trades the original’s frantic energy for a bluesier, more soulful interpretation.
Right from the opening notes, Bonnie’s signature slide guitar sets a sultry, moody tone, giving the song a new sense of depth. Her vocal performance is rich and expressive, effortlessly capturing the longing and heartbreak embedded in the lyrics. The slowed-down tempo allows the song to breathe, emphasizing the emotional weight of losing someone you love.
What makes this cover so compelling is the way Bonnie infuses it with her unique style. The blues and R&B influences are unmistakable, and the arrangement feels organic, as if the song was always meant to sound this way. The result is a version of Runaway that stands on its own, separate from the original yet equally powerful.
Bonnie’s rendition of Runaway became a hit in its own right, showcasing her ability to reinvent a classic while staying true to its emotional core.
8. “Have a Heart” (1989)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kQwddR94NsU&pp=ygUUIkhhdmUgYSBIZWFydCIgKDE5ODk%3D
Have a Heart is one of Bonnie Raitt’s most soulful and heartfelt songs, featured on her Grammy-winning Nick of Time album. A mix of blues, R&B, and pop influences, the track is both a plea for compassion and a declaration of self-worth.
The song tells the story of a woman who’s tired of being mistreated in a relationship and is demanding the love and respect she deserves. Bonnie’s vocal performance is raw and impassioned, perfectly capturing the frustration and vulnerability in the lyrics. The groove-driven arrangement, featuring a subtle but steady beat, gives the song a hypnotic quality, making it one of the most memorable tracks on the album.
What makes Have a Heart so impactful is its emotional authenticity. Bonnie doesn’t just sing the words—she lives them, making every line feel personal and real. It’s a song about standing up for yourself and refusing to settle for less than you deserve, a message that continues to resonate with listeners.
Though not as widely recognized as some of her biggest hits, Have a Heart remains a standout track in Bonnie’s catalog, a testament to her ability to blend storytelling with deeply felt emotion.
9. “Not the Only One” (1991)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1KtidyhgXFI&pp=ygUZIk5vdCB0aGUgT25seSBPbmUiICgxOTkxKQ%3D%3D
Not the Only One is a beautifully understated song about love, forgiveness, and second chances. Released on Luck of the Draw, this track showcases Bonnie Raitt’s ability to convey complex emotions with grace and sincerity.
The song’s lyrics tell the story of someone who has been hurt in the past but is willing to open their heart again, reassured by the idea that they’re not alone in their struggles. It’s a song of quiet resilience, one that acknowledges pain while still holding onto hope. Bonnie’s voice is warm and inviting, delivering the lyrics with a tenderness that makes them feel deeply personal.
Musically, Not the Only One is a blend of soft rock and folk influences, featuring gentle guitar work and a soothing melody. The production is subtle, allowing the song’s emotional depth to shine through.
Though it’s not as flashy as some of Bonnie’s bigger hits, Not the Only One is a song that lingers in the mind, offering comfort to anyone who has ever needed reassurance that they’re not alone. It’s a reminder that even in our lowest moments, there’s always hope for love and healing.
10. “Cry on My Shoulder” (1973)
A song of comfort and empathy, Cry on My Shoulder is one of Bonnie Raitt’s most tender ballads. Featured on her 1973 album Takin’ My Time, this track showcases her ability to connect deeply with her audience, offering a message of unwavering support.
The lyrics are simple yet profoundly moving—a promise to be there for someone when they need it most. Bonnie’s voice is gentle and soothing, wrapping around each line like a warm embrace. The soft instrumentation, led by acoustic guitar and piano, creates an intimate atmosphere, making the song feel like a personal conversation.
What sets Cry on My Shoulder apart is its sincerity. There’s no pretense or over-dramatization—just a heartfelt message of love and reassurance. It’s the kind of song that can provide comfort during difficult times, reminding us that sometimes, all we need is someone willing to listen.
Though not one of Bonnie’s most commercially successful songs, Cry on My Shoulder has remained a quiet gem in her discography, cherished by those who appreciate music that speaks directly to the heart.
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.
