Bonnie Raitt

Bonnie Raitt skips slogans, sings solidarity, and parks the politics in the lobby

Bonnie Raitt, while unmistakably politically attuned, opts to keep her concerts clear of soapboxing, choosing instead to offer audiences a reprieve from turmoil. She subtly addresses collective anxiety, favoring unifying acknowledgments over polarizing proclamations.

Lobby space goes to non-profits pushing environmental and humanitarian efforts, but on stage, it’s songs, not speeches. “We’re all suffering,” she notes, prefacing performances with quiet appeals for shared strength rather than slogans.

Fresh off multiple awards and honors, Raitt nears the end of a four-year tour and eyes a much-needed hiatus. Recording plans take a backseat, though a “stash” of beloved songs quietly waits in the wings.