Biography
Bonnie Lynn Raitt, born November 8, 1949, in Burbank, California, is an American singer, songwriter, and guitarist renowned for her soulful blend of blues, rock, folk, and country. Raised in a musical family—her father was Broadway star John Raitt—she was exposed early to both the performing arts and the roots music that would shape her career. Raitt attended Radcliffe College at Harvard, where she became deeply involved in the local folk and blues scene, forging connections with legendary blues musicians such as Son House and Mississippi Fred McDowell.
Raitt's self-titled debut album was released in 1971, earning critical acclaim for her expressive vocals and distinctive bottleneck slide guitar technique—a rarity among female artists at the time. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, she built a reputation as a skilled interpreter and collaborator, working with artists like Warren Zevon, Little Feat, John Prine, and Leon Russell. Despite modest commercial success during these years, her artistry was widely respected. Raitt's breakthrough came in 1989 with the album 'Nick of Time,' produced by Don Was, which won three Grammy Awards including Album of the Year and marked her ascent to mainstream stardom. Subsequent albums such as 'Luck of the Draw' and 'Longing in Their Hearts' solidified her legacy, generating hits like 'Something to Talk About' and 'I Can't Make You Love Me.'
Raitt's musical style is rooted in blues, but she skillfully incorporates elements of folk, rock, and Americana, making her a versatile and influential figure in American music. Her emotive phrasing and masterful slide guitar have earned her numerous accolades, including 13 Grammy Awards, a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction, and recognition as one of Rolling Stone's greatest singers and guitarists. Beyond her musical achievements, Raitt is known for her activism and mentorship, inspiring generations of musicians with her artistry and commitment to social causes.
Fun Facts
- Bonnie Raitt was awarded the Kennedy Center Honor in 2024, one of the highest cultural honors in the United States.
- She is the daughter of Broadway musical star John Raitt, best known for his role in 'Carousel'.
- Raitt was granted an unprecedented recording contract with Warner Bros. that gave her complete artistic control over her music.
- Her song 'I Can't Make You Love Me' has been covered by artists including George Michael and Prince, and is considered one of the greatest ballads in pop history.
Musical Connections
Mentors/Influences
- Son House - Blues legend who befriended and mentored Raitt during her college years, influencing her slide guitar technique and approach to blues. (Live performances, informal jams) [Late 1960s–early 1970s]
- Mississippi Fred McDowell - Blues guitarist who played with Raitt at the Philadelphia Folk Festival and shaped her slide guitar style. (Philadelphia Folk Festival (1970))
- Lowell George - Leader of Little Feat; influenced Raitt's slide guitar sound and use of effects. (Collaborations, stylistic influence) [1970s]
Key Collaborators
- John Prine - Frequent collaborator and friend; Raitt's cover of 'Angel from Montgomery' is a career-defining recording. ('Angel from Montgomery', live performances) [1970s–2010s]
- Don Was - Producer of Raitt's breakthrough album 'Nick of Time' and subsequent works. ('Nick of Time', 'Luck of the Draw') [1989–1990s]
- John Lee Hooker - Collaborated on the Grammy-winning album 'The Healer.' ('The Healer' (1989))
- Bruce Hornsby - Played piano on Raitt's hit 'I Can't Make You Love Me.' ('I Can't Make You Love Me')
- Warren Zevon - Session player on Zevon's self-titled album. ('Warren Zevon' (1976))
Artists Influenced
- Sheryl Crow - Cites Raitt as a major influence on her songwriting and approach to blues-rock. (Various interviews, live tributes) [1990s–present]
- Susan Tedeschi - Inspired by Raitt's slide guitar and vocal style; often credited Raitt as a role model for women in blues. (Tedeschi Trucks Band performances) [2000s–present]
- Keb' Mo' - Blues artist who has acknowledged Raitt's influence on contemporary blues songwriting. (Collaborations, interviews) [1990s–present]
Connection Network
Discography
Albums
| Title | Release Date | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Luck Of The Draw | 1991-01-01 | Album |
| Streetlights | 1974 | Album |
| Bonnie Raitt (2008 Remaster) | 1971 | Album |
| Nick Of Time | 1989 | Album |
| Give It Up (2008 Remaster) | 1972 | Album |
| Just Like That... | 2022-04-22 | Album |
| Longing In Their Hearts | 1994-01-01 | Album |
| Essential Classics, Vol. 844: Bonnie Raitt | 2025-06-20 | Album |
Top Tracks
- I Can't Make You Love Me (Luck Of The Draw)
- Angel from Montgomery - 2008 Remaster (Streetlights)
- Something To Talk About (Luck Of The Draw)
- Thank You - 2008 Remaster (Bonnie Raitt (2008 Remaster))
- Nick Of Time (Nick Of Time)
- Love Me Like a Man - 2008 Remaster (Give It Up (2008 Remaster))
- Feels Like Rain (feat. Bonnie Raitt) (Feels Like Rain)
- Do I Ever Cross Your Mind (Genius Loves Company)
- Love Has No Pride - 2008 Remaster (Give It Up (2008 Remaster))
- Just Like That (Just Like That...)
External Links
Tags: #adult-contemporary, #blue-eyed-soul, #blues-rock
References
Heard on WWOZ
bonnie raitt has been played 20 times on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.