Few artists can captivate the soul like the incomparable Bonnie Raitt. With her raspy, emotive voice and unparalleled slide guitar skills, Raitt has carved out a legacy that transcends genres and generations. A true trailblazer in blues, rock, and folk, her music has an uncanny ability to resonate deeply, weaving tales of heartbreak, resilience, and love. From her breakout success in the 1970s to her Grammy-winning triumphs, Raitt’s artistry has only grown more profound with time.
In this article, we celebrate the top 10 most popular Bonnie Raitt songs of all time—songs that not only showcase her exceptional talent but also reveal the raw emotion and authenticity that have made her a beloved icon in the music world. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering her work for the first time, these tracks will take you on a journey through her remarkable career, from tender ballads to electrifying anthems. So grab your headphones, turn up the volume, and get ready to immerse yourself in the heartfelt soundscapes of a true music legend. These songs are more than just hits—they’re timeless treasures that continue to inspire and move audiences worldwide.
1. “I Can’t Make You Love Me” (1991)
“I Can’t Make You Love Me” stands as one of Bonnie Raitt’s most emotionally devastating and universally cherished ballads. Released on her critically acclaimed Luck of the Draw album, the song is a raw, intimate confession of unrequited love and the painful acceptance that comes with it. With just a somber piano and sparse arrangement behind her, Raitt’s voice delivers every line with heartbreaking clarity and grace. Her performance isn’t just about singing—it’s about inhabiting the quiet ache of someone realizing that love can’t be forced or manufactured. The song’s simplicity makes it even more powerful, allowing each word and note to sink in. It became an instant classic, frequently covered by artists across genres, from Adele to George Michael. But Raitt’s original rendition remains the definitive version, capturing the quiet resignation of heartbreak like few songs ever have. It’s not just a love song—it’s a moment of surrender, where the only thing left to do is let go. Whether you’re nursing a fresh heartbreak or revisiting old wounds, “I Can’t Make You Love Me” meets you there—with honesty, compassion, and unmatched emotional depth.
2. “Something to Talk About” (1991)
“Something to Talk About” is Bonnie Raitt at her most fun, flirty, and full of fire. Released on her Luck of the Draw album, this blues-rock gem gave Raitt a major hit that perfectly showcased her sass, charm, and unmistakable voice. The song flips gossip on its head, playfully leaning into the rumors of romance and turning whispers into empowerment. With its catchy groove, bouncy rhythm, and cheeky lyrics, it’s easy to see why it became an instant favorite. Raitt delivers each line with a wink and a knowing grin, effortlessly riding the infectious beat with her signature bluesy twang. The song’s energy is contagious—whether you’re dancing around the kitchen or blasting it on a road trip, it makes you want to sing along and laugh at the drama. More than just a fun tune, “Something to Talk About” marked a triumphant moment in Raitt’s career, bringing her sound to a wider pop audience without sacrificing her roots. It’s a celebration of owning your story, laughing at the noise, and maybe—just maybe—falling in love anyway.
3. “Love Sneakin’ Up On You” (1994)
“Love Sneakin’ Up On You” is a burst of pure groove and swagger, proving Bonnie Raitt’s knack for blending blues, rock, and funk into something that feels both timeless and fresh. Released in 1994 on her Longing in Their Hearts album, this track became a Grammy-nominated hit and a fan favorite thanks to its irresistible energy and playful lyrics. Raitt’s voice is full of confidence and sass as she sings about how love often hits when you least expect it—like a sneak attack from the heart. The rhythm section is tight, the guitars funky, and her slide playing cuts through the mix like a streak of lightning. There’s a kinetic joy in the performance, like Raitt is having just as much fun as the listener. It’s the kind of song that makes you want to move, smile, and maybe even fall in love again. Underneath the playful surface is a deeper message about the unpredictability of love and the thrill that comes with it. “Love Sneakin’ Up On You” shows Bonnie Raitt in full command—playful, passionate, and impossible to ignore.
4. “Nick of Time” (1989)
“Nick of Time” is more than just the title track of Bonnie Raitt’s breakthrough album—it’s a personal reflection on aging, love, and the passage of time that struck a chord with listeners everywhere. Released in 1989, this deeply introspective song marked a turning point in Raitt’s career and earned her widespread critical acclaim. With a gentle melody and understated arrangement, “Nick of Time” doesn’t try to dazzle with big production—it lets the lyrics speak for themselves. Raitt’s vocal delivery is raw and sincere as she sings about watching her parents grow older, confronting her own mortality, and still hoping for love when it feels like time is running out. The song’s vulnerability is its strength; it’s a rare pop song that stares reality in the face and still finds beauty in it. Winning the Grammy for Album of the Year, “Nick of Time” helped cement Raitt’s legacy and connected with anyone who’s ever worried about running out of chances. It’s a quiet anthem for second acts, late blooms, and the unexpected joys that can still arrive—right in the nick of time.
5. “Angel from Montgomery” (1974)
Bonnie Raitt’s rendition of “Angel from Montgomery” has become so closely associated with her that many forget it was originally written by the great John Prine. Featured on her 1974 album Streetlights, Raitt’s version transforms the song into a haunting portrait of loneliness, regret, and quiet longing. The lyrics tell the story of a middle-aged woman trapped in a life she never imagined, yearning for something—anything—that might lift her out of the monotony. Raitt sings with a weathered grace, giving voice to the character’s ache with heartbreaking authenticity. Her delivery is restrained but powerful, capturing the deep emotional undercurrent without ever sounding forced. Accompanied by a soft acoustic backdrop, her voice becomes the center of gravity, pulling the listener into the woman’s world. Over the years, Raitt’s “Angel from Montgomery” has become a staple of her live shows and a favorite among fans. It’s more than a cover—it’s a soulful interpretation that adds new layers of feeling and understanding to Prine’s already masterful lyrics. It stands as a testament to Bonnie Raitt’s gift for storytelling and emotional connection, and it remains one of her most enduring performances.
6. “Runaway” (1977)
Bonnie Raitt’s take on Del Shannon’s 1961 hit “Runaway” is a brilliant example of how a cover can become something completely new in the hands of the right artist. Featured on her 1977 album Sweet Forgiveness, this version adds a smoky, bluesy flair that showcases Raitt’s unique style and slide guitar mastery. From the very first notes, she infuses the song with a sultry groove, giving it a more mature, emotionally charged edge. Her voice carries both heartbreak and resilience, turning the teenage heartbreak anthem into something richer and deeper. The arrangement trades in the original’s upbeat pop sheen for a slower, more soulful vibe that suits Raitt’s blues-rock roots perfectly. It was her first major radio hit, helping introduce her to a broader audience and laying the groundwork for future success. Raitt doesn’t just sing “Runaway”—she inhabits it, reshaping it with her distinct musical fingerprints. This cover shows how Bonnie can honor a song’s past while giving it a fresh identity. Decades later, her rendition still holds up as a fan favorite, beloved for its emotional depth, tasteful guitar work, and the sheer soul she brings to every line.
7. “Have a Heart” (1989)
“Have a Heart” is one of those Bonnie Raitt songs that perfectly blends strength and vulnerability. Released on her Nick of Time album, which marked a major comeback in her career, the track is a spirited plea for kindness and respect in a faltering relationship. With a bluesy shuffle and a rhythm that swings with quiet defiance, the song invites listeners into a conversation that many have had: asking someone to show a little more compassion and stop playing games. Raitt’s delivery is both sharp and soulful—she’s fed up, but there’s still a sliver of hope. Her vocals dance around the groove with ease, and the band behind her keeps things tight, letting her voice and guitar shine. There’s a quiet confidence in the lyrics, reflecting someone who knows their worth but still wants to be seen and understood. “Have a Heart” resonated with listeners because it’s honest without being bitter—it’s emotional without being melodramatic. It’s Bonnie Raitt at her best: cool, clear-eyed, and musically irresistible. Whether you’re navigating your own heartache or just appreciating great songwriting, this track hits the sweet spot.
8. “Thing Called Love” (1989)
Bonnie Raitt’s version of “Thing Called Love” is playful, sultry, and irresistibly fun. Originally written and performed by John Hiatt, Raitt made it her own on her 1989 album Nick of Time, injecting it with a blues-rock swagger that only she can deliver. The song bursts with flirtatious energy, as Raitt sings about the unpredictable nature of love with a wink and a grin. Her raspy vocals bring an earthy warmth to the lyrics, while her slide guitar work adds a sharp, expressive layer to the groove. The arrangement is tight and dynamic, blending blues, rock, and a little bit of funk into a track that demands to be played loud. It became a live performance staple and one of her most recognizable songs, in part because of how much personality she pours into every line. Raitt doesn’t just perform “Thing Called Love”—she plays with it, owning the song’s boldness while keeping it grounded in real emotion. It’s a perfect mix of sass and soul, showing off the full range of her musical gifts and solidifying her place as a powerhouse in American roots music.
9. “Not the Only One” (1991)
“Not the Only One” is a tender, hopeful ballad that explores the themes of reconciliation and lasting love with gentle grace. Featured on Bonnie Raitt’s 1991 album Luck of the Draw, the song offers a warm, introspective moment amid the record’s more energetic tracks. It’s about finding comfort in the fact that you’re not alone in your feelings—someone else is walking the same emotional path, and that connection brings healing. Raitt’s vocals are soft and soulful, full of longing but also full of light. The instrumentation is lush but never overwhelming, allowing her voice and the heartfelt lyrics to take center stage. There’s a deep sincerity in the way she sings lines about forgiveness and emotional honesty. It feels like a quiet conversation with someone you trust. The song is not about flashy declarations of love; it’s about the steady, comforting presence of someone who understands. “Not the Only One” resonated with listeners because of its vulnerability and authenticity, serving as a gentle reminder that love, even after heartache, is still possible. It’s one of Bonnie Raitt’s most quietly powerful performances, and a true gem in her catalog.
10. “You Got It” (1995)
Bonnie Raitt’s cover of “You Got It” is a heartfelt tribute to Roy Orbison’s timeless songwriting, and she delivers it with a soulful intensity all her own. Recorded for the Boys on the Side film soundtrack in 1995, the track sees Raitt embracing the song’s message of unconditional devotion with open arms. While Orbison’s original version had a sweeping pop feel, Raitt brings it back to earth with a bluesy touch and her signature vocal warmth. Her interpretation is smooth, emotional, and deeply human—less dramatic, but just as sincere. She lets the melody breathe, focusing on the quiet power of the lyrics and delivering each line with understated conviction. The arrangement is clean and elegant, allowing her vocals and subtle guitar work to shine through. What makes her version stand out is how she balances reverence for the original with her own unique musical sensibilities. “You Got It” in Raitt’s hands becomes a love song not just for a partner, but for anyone who’s ever given their all with no strings attached. It’s a beautiful, heartfelt cover that honors a legend while also showcasing the emotional range and depth that make Raitt a legend in her own right.
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.
