Bonnie Raitt

Bonnie Raitt is an American blues, rock, and folk singer-songwriter, guitarist, and activist, whose soulful voice, slide guitar mastery, and timeless songs have made her an enduring figure in music for over five decades.

Raitt grew up in a family steeped in the arts—her father was Broadway star John Raitt, and her mother was a pianist. She began playing guitar at an early age and, inspired by the blues and folk revival of the 1960s, immersed herself in the music of legends like Muddy Waters, Howlin' Wolf, and Mississippi Fred McDowell. Her distinctive blend of blues, rock, and folk, along with her commitment to social activism, set her apart as an artist unafraid to speak her mind and fight for her beliefs.

Raitt’s career breakthrough came with her 1989 album "Nick of Time," which won three Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year, and brought her commercial success after nearly two decades of critical acclaim and cult status. The album’s success catapulted Raitt into the mainstream, where she continued to build on her reputation with a string of successful releases, including "Luck of the Draw" and "Longing in Their Hearts", both of which produced hit singles like “Something to Talk About” and “I Can't Make You Love Me.” Her emotive singing and blues-infused slide guitar work became her signature, earning her ten Grammy Awards over the course of her career.

Known for her passionate advocacy for social justice, environmental causes, and human rights, Raitt has used her platform to support various organizations and movements. She co-founded the activist group Musicians United for Safe Energy (MUSE) in the late 1970s, standing against nuclear power, and has been a vocal advocate for environmental sustainability, Native American rights, and gender equality. Her commitment to activism is as integral to her identity as her music, reflecting her belief in the power of art to inspire change and foster empathy.

In recent years, Raitt has continued to release critically acclaimed music and tour extensively, maintaining her status as a vital and relevant artist. Her 2016 album "Dig In Deep" showcased her continued growth as a musician, blending blues, rock, and Americana with introspective lyrics and powerful performances. In 2022, she released "Just Like That…", an album that won her the Grammy Award for Best Americana Performance for its title track, demonstrating her continued evolution and resonance with audiences old and new.

Today, Bonnie Raitt remains a beloved figure in American music, celebrated for her artistry, integrity, and commitment to social causes. Her contributions to music and activism have earned her numerous accolades, including her 2000 induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.