Bonnie Raitt, Norah Jones

Biography

Bonnie Raitt, born November 8, 1949, in Burbank, California, is an acclaimed American singer, songwriter, and guitarist renowned for her unique blend of blues, rock, folk, and country. Raised in a musical family—her father was Broadway star John Raitt—she began playing guitar as a teenager and was deeply influenced by the blues revival of the 1960s. Raitt attended Radcliffe College, where she became immersed in the Cambridge folk and blues scene, learning directly from blues legends and honing her signature slide guitar style.

Raitt released her self-titled debut album in 1971, quickly earning critical praise for her soulful voice and exceptional guitar work, though commercial success was initially modest. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, she built a reputation as a powerful live performer and respected session musician, collaborating with artists like Warren Zevon, Little Feat, and John Prine. Her major breakthrough came with the 1989 album 'Nick of Time,' which won the Grammy for Album of the Year and topped the Billboard 200. Subsequent albums, including 'Luck of the Draw' and 'Longing in Their Hearts,' produced hits like 'Something to Talk About' and 'I Can't Make You Love Me,' cementing her legacy as a leading figure in American roots music.

Over her five-decade career, Raitt has earned 13 Grammy Awards, a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. She is celebrated for her expressive slide guitar technique, emotive vocal delivery, and advocacy for social and environmental causes. In 2022, her song 'Just Like That' won the Grammy for Song of the Year, underscoring her enduring relevance and artistry.

Fun Facts

• B.B. King once called Bonnie Raitt the 'best damn slide player working today.'
• Raitt was the first female musician to have her signature Fender Stratocaster guitar model.
• She is a dedicated activist, co-founding the Rhythm and Blues Foundation and supporting environmental and social justice causes.
• Her 2022 Grammy win for 'Just Like That' made her one of the few artists to win Song of the Year decades into her career.

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Mississippi Fred McDowell - Blues legend who taught Raitt slide guitar techniques and performed with her early in her career (Live performances, notably at the Philadelphia Folk Festival) [1970]
• Lowell George - Influenced her slide guitar style and use of effects (Inspired her guitar approach; member of Little Feat) [1970s]

Key Collaborators

• John Prine - Frequent collaborator and friend; performed and recorded together (Live performances, session work) [1970s–2020s]
• Warren Zevon - Session work and guest appearances (Warren Zevon's self-titled album) [1976]
• Bruce Hornsby - Pianist on Raitt's hit ballad ("I Can't Make You Love Me") [1991]
• John Lee Hooker - Duet partner on Grammy-winning track ("I'm in the Mood") [1989]

Artists Influenced

• Susan Tedeschi - Inspired by Raitt's blues guitar and vocal style (Tedeschi's solo work and with Tedeschi Trucks Band) [1990s–present]
• Keb' Mo' - Cites Raitt as an influence on his blues songwriting and performance (Solo albums) [1990s–present]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. I Can't Make You Love Me (Luck Of The Draw)
2. Angel from Montgomery - 2008 Remaster (Streetlights)
3. Something To Talk About (Luck Of The Draw)
4. Thank You - 2008 Remaster (Bonnie Raitt (2008 Remaster))
5. Nick Of Time (Nick Of Time)
6. Love Me Like a Man - 2008 Remaster (Give It Up (2008 Remaster))
7. Feels Like Rain (feat. Bonnie Raitt) (Feels Like Rain)
8. Do I Ever Cross Your Mind (Genius Loves Company)
9. Love Has No Pride - 2008 Remaster (Give It Up (2008 Remaster))
10. Just Like That (Just Like That...)

External Links

• Spotify
• Wikipedia