Bonnie Raitt’s ‘Thing Called Love’ Reshapes Country Music in 1989
Released in 1989, “Thing Called Love” marked a pivotal moment in Bonnie Raitt’s career and in the country music landscape. Featured on her album Nick of Time, the song showcased Raitt’s distinctive blend of blues, rock, and country influences. Its success on the charts and its crossover appeal to a broader audience highlighted the evolving sound of country music during that era.
Bonnie Raitt, born in 1949 in Burbank, California, is renowned for her soulful voice and exceptional slide guitar skills. Growing up in a musical family—her father was a Broadway singer—Raitt was exposed to a variety of musical genres from an early age. She began playing guitar in her teens and later attended Radcliffe College, where she immersed herself in the folk and blues scenes of Cambridge, Massachusetts. This diverse musical background set her apart from many of her contemporaries, allowing her to blend genres seamlessly.
“Thing Called Love” was penned by John Hiatt and originally appeared on his 1987 album Bring the Family. Raitt’s decision to cover the song was influenced by her admiration for Hiatt’s songwriting and her desire to bring his work to a wider audience. The lyrics explore the complexities and challenges of love, themes that resonated deeply with Raitt’s own experiences and artistic sensibilities.
The recording of “Thing Called Love” took place at Ocean Way Recording in Los Angeles, with Raitt collaborating with producer Don Was and engineer Ed Cherney. The production aimed for a raw, live feel, capturing the energy of a live performance. Raitt’s slide guitar work was prominently featured, complemented by a rhythm section that included bassist Hutch Hutchinson, drummer Ricky Fataar, and guitarist Johnny Lee Schell. This arrangement highlighted Raitt’s dynamic vocal delivery and instrumental prowess.
Upon its release, “Thing Called Love” received critical acclaim and achieved commercial success. The song peaked at number 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1989, marking Raitt’s first significant hit on the mainstream charts. Its success was further bolstered by a well-received music video featuring actor Dennis Quaid, which received heavy rotation on VH1, introducing Raitt to a younger audience.
Culturally, “Thing Called Love” played a significant role in bridging the gap between country music and other genres. Its success on mainstream charts demonstrated the potential for country artists to achieve crossover appeal. The song’s blend of blues, rock, and country elements resonated with a diverse audience, challenging traditional genre boundaries and paving the way for future artists to explore and merge different musical styles.
The success of “Thing Called Love” had a profound impact on Raitt’s career trajectory. It propelled her into the mainstream spotlight, leading to increased album sales and a broader fan base. The success of Nick of Time revitalized her career, earning her three Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year, Best Pop Vocal Performance Female, and Best Rock Vocal Performance Female. This recognition solidified her status as a leading figure in the music industry.
The song’s influence extended beyond Raitt’s own work, inspiring other artists to explore similar genre-blending approaches. Its success demonstrated the commercial viability of merging blues, rock, and country elements, encouraging artists to experiment with their musical styles. The track has been covered by various artists, each bringing their unique interpretation, further testament to its enduring appeal and influence.
Notable covers of “Thing Called Love” include renditions by artists such as John Hiatt, who brought his original version to life with his distinctive style. These covers have kept the song relevant across different musical eras, showcasing its versatility and the universal themes it addresses.
During the period surrounding the release of “Thing Called Love,” Raitt experienced a resurgence in her career. The success of Nick of Time marked a significant turning point, leading to increased recognition and opportunities. This period of revitalization allowed Raitt to continue her musical journey, reaching new heights and solidifying her legacy in the music industry.
The long-term legacy of “Thing Called Love” is evident in its continued presence on radio playlists and its inclusion in various compilations. The song remains a staple in Raitt’s live performances, resonating with audiences and showcasing her enduring talent. Its timeless appeal underscores the song’s status as a classic in the country music genre.
“Thing Called Love” played a pivotal role in shaping future developments in music by demonstrating the commercial success of genre fusion. Its success encouraged artists to explore and blend different musical styles, leading to a more diverse and inclusive musical landscape. The track’s influence is evident in the subsequent works of artists who have embraced genre-blending approaches, contributing to the evolution of contemporary music.
In conclusion, “Thing Called Love” stands as a testament to Bonnie Raitt’s artistic vision and the evolving nature of country music. Its success not only revitalized Raitt’s career but also challenged and expanded the boundaries of the genre. The song’s enduring popularity and influence highlight its significance in the music landscape, marking it as a pivotal work that continues to inspire and resonate with audiences worldwide.
