Top Albums by Bonnie Raitt You Should Listen to Right Now
- Capital City Tickets
- Nov 14
- 3 min read
Bonnie Raitt has built a remarkable career blending blues, rock, and folk with a voice and guitar style that few can match. Her albums showcase not only her musical talent but also her ability to connect deeply with listeners through heartfelt lyrics and soulful performances. If you want to explore some of the best work from this iconic artist, here are the top albums by Bonnie Raitt that deserve a spot on your playlist today. Top Albums by Bonnie Raitt!
1. Nick of Time (1989)
This album marked a turning point in Bonnie Raitt’s career. After years of steady work, Nick of Time brought her widespread critical acclaim and commercial success. The album won three Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year. It features a mix of blues, pop, and rock with deeply personal songs.
Key tracks to listen for:
“Nick of Time” – A reflective song about aging and the passage of time.
“Thing Called Love” – A catchy, upbeat tune with a strong blues-rock vibe.
“Love Letter” – A soulful ballad that highlights Raitt’s vocal warmth.
This album is a great introduction to Bonnie Raitt’s mature sound and songwriting skills.
2. Luck of the Draw (1991)
Following the success of Nick of Time, Luck of the Draw continued to build Bonnie Raitt’s reputation. It features a blend of blues, rock, and pop with some memorable guest appearances, including Bruce Hornsby and Jackson Browne.
Highlights include:
“Something to Talk About” – One of Raitt’s most famous songs, with an infectious chorus and strong groove.
“I Can’t Make You Love Me” – A heartbreaking ballad that has become a classic, covered by many artists.
“Not the Only One” – A smooth, soulful track with emotional depth.
This album balances upbeat tracks with tender moments, showing Bonnie Raitt’s range as an artist.
3. Sweet Forgiveness (1977)
Sweet Forgiveness captures Bonnie Raitt’s early blend of blues and rock with a raw, energetic feel. It includes some of her best-known covers and original songs, showcasing her guitar skills and expressive voice.
Notable songs:
“Two Lives” – A powerful blues-rock song with strong vocals.
“Runaway” – A cover of Del Shannon’s hit, delivered with passion.
“Sweet Forgiveness” – The title track, a soulful tune with heartfelt lyrics.
This album is perfect for listeners who want to explore Bonnie Raitt’s roots and early style.
4. The Glow (1979)
The Glow is an album that blends blues, rock, and a touch of jazz. It features smooth production and some of Bonnie Raitt’s most intricate guitar work. The album didn’t achieve massive commercial success but remains a favorite among fans for its musical depth.
Key tracks include:
“Your Sweet and Shiny Eyes” – A bluesy, emotional song with a slow groove.
“Angel from Montgomery” – A cover of John Prine’s classic, delivered with warmth and sincerity.
“The Glow” – The title track, with a jazzy feel and rich instrumentation.
This album shows Bonnie Raitt’s ability to experiment while staying true to her blues roots.
5. Slipstream (2012)
Slipstream is one of Bonnie Raitt’s more recent albums, and it reflects her continued growth as a songwriter and performer. The album won the Grammy Award for Best Americana Album and features a mix of original songs and covers.
Standout songs:
“Used to Rule the World” – A strong opener with a message about change and resilience.
“Love on One Condition” – A soulful, upbeat track with a catchy melody.
“Not Cause I Wanted To” – A tender ballad with heartfelt lyrics.
This album is a testament to Bonnie Raitt’s enduring talent and relevance in modern music.
Why These Albums Matter
Each of these albums captures a different phase of Bonnie Raitt’s career, showing her evolution as an artist. From the raw energy of her early work to the polished, introspective songs of her later albums, Bonnie Raitt offers something for every listener who appreciates blues-infused rock and heartfelt storytelling.
Her ability to blend genres and deliver emotionally honest performances makes these albums essential listening. Whether you are new to her music or a longtime fan, these records provide a rich experience that highlights her skill as a guitarist, singer, and songwriter.
How to Start Listening - Top Albums by Bonnie Raitt
If you want to dive into Bonnie Raitt’s music, start with Nick of Time or Luck of the Draw for a mix of hits and deep cuts. Then explore Sweet Forgiveness and The Glow to understand her early style. Finish with Slipstream to hear her latest work and see how she continues to evolve.
Listening to these albums in order can give you a sense of her artistic journey and the changes in her sound over the decades.
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