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Everything You Need to Know About Bonnie Raitt's 2026 Tour

Bonnie Raitt's Musical Journey

Bonnie Raitt's career represents one of popular music's most inspiring success stories. Born in 1949 to Broadway musical star John Raitt, she discovered blues music in her teens and quickly mastered the bottleneck slide guitar technique—unusual for women musicians of her era. Her 1971 self-titled debut showcased her distinctive blend of blues, folk, and rock, establishing a foundation for a career now spanning 55 years.

While critical acclaim came early, commercial breakthrough arrived with 1989's "Nick of Time," which won Grammy Album of the Year and launched her into mainstream consciousness. The album's success at age 39 demonstrated that artistry and authenticity could triumph over youth-oriented music industry trends. Since then, Raitt has maintained consistent artistic excellence, releasing albums that honor blues traditions while addressing contemporary themes.

Her 2023 Grammy Song of the Year win for "Just Like That" at age 73 proved she remains at the peak of her creative powers. The victory—over much younger pop stars with billions of streams—validated her patient, craft-focused approach to music-making. Raitt writes sparingly but meaningfully, ensuring each song carries emotional weight and narrative depth inspired by artists like John Prine and Bob Dylan.

The "Just Like That..." Album Success

Released in April 2022 after a six-year gap, "Just Like That..." marked Raitt's 18th studio album and arguably her most critically celebrated work since "Nick of Time." Self-produced and recorded with her longtime band in Northern California summer 2021, the album captured the joy of reuniting after pandemic isolation. The title track's Grammy Song of the Year win represented Raitt's first solo composition to win that category since Amy Winehouse's "Rehab" in 2008.

The album explores themes of loss, redemption, and human connection through both originals and carefully selected covers. "Made Up Mind" by the Bros. Landreth showcases Raitt's ability to interpret contemporary songwriters, while her originals like "Living for the Ones" pay tribute to friends and family lost. The album's success stems from Raitt's willingness to address difficult subjects with grace and hope rather than despair.

Recording engineer Ryan Freeland captured intimate performances featuring longtime collaborators including drummer Ricky Fataar, bassist James "Hutch" Hutchinson, and keyboardist Glenn Patscha. Special guest Jon Cleary contributed piano to one track, establishing a collaboration that continues on the 2026 Canadian tour dates. The album's warm, organic sound contrasts with modern pop production, offering timeless quality that ensures longevity.

What to Expect at a Bonnie Raitt Concert

A Bonnie Raitt performance offers more than music—it provides an evening with a master storyteller who connects songs to personal experiences and social issues. Raitt typically opens shows with upbeat numbers showcasing her slide guitar prowess before settling into mid-tempo ballads and blues standards. Her setlists balance new material with classics spanning five decades, ensuring both longtime fans and newcomers find favorite songs.

Between songs, Raitt shares anecdotes about songwriting inspiration, musician friends, and causes she supports. Her warm, conversational stage presence creates intimate atmospheres even in larger venues. She frequently introduces band members, crediting their contributions and highlighting the collaborative nature of her music. This generosity of spirit extends to opening acts, whom she genuinely supports rather than merely tolerating.

Musically, expect masterful guitar work featuring her signature bottleneck slide technique on songs like "Love Me Like a Man" and emotional vocal performances on ballads like "I Can't Make You Love Me." Raitt's voice, weathered beautifully over decades, conveys hard-won wisdom and authentic emotion. Her band, featuring musicians she's worked with for decades, provides tight, soulful support that elevates songs beyond studio versions.

The 2026 Tour Venues and Logistics

The Live 2026 Tour showcases Bonnie Raitt in both intimate theaters and outdoor amphitheaters across the West Coast and Canada. Smaller venues like the Fox Theater in Spokane and Elsinore Theatre in Salem offer acoustic intimacy perfect for Raitt's storytelling, while larger spaces like Sacramento's Channel 24 and Bend's Hayden Homes Amphitheater accommodate bigger crowds while maintaining excellent sightlines.

The tour's May-June timing takes advantage of beautiful Pacific Northwest weather for outdoor shows while avoiding summer's peak heat in California. Theater shows typically feature reserved seating with excellent acoustics, while amphitheaters may offer both seats and lawn areas. All venues on this tour have chosen for their superior sound quality and audience experience rather than maximum capacity.

Canadian dates from June 16-27 feature special guest Jon Cleary, the Grammy-winning New Orleans pianist who contributed to "Just Like That..." Cleary's R&B and funk-influenced style complements Raitt's blues-rock approach, promising dynamic musical conversations on stage. Opening acts for U.S. dates will be announced, likely featuring artists from the Americana and roots music communities Raitt actively supports.

Bonnie Raitt's Activism and Social Impact

Bonnie Raitt's commitment to activism equals her musical dedication. A founding board member of the Rhythm & Blues Foundation, she advocates for heritage blues artists receiving proper recognition and compensation. Her participation in Farm Aid since its 1985 inception demonstrates long-term commitment to family farmers and sustainable agriculture. She regularly performs at benefits for environmental protection, indigenous rights, and social justice causes.

Raitt's activism extends beyond benefit concerts to using her platform for education and awareness. She speaks candidly about recovery from addiction, offering hope to others struggling with substance abuse. Her openness about maintaining 38 years of sobriety through twelve-step programs inspires fans facing similar challenges. This authenticity—refusing to project false perfection—strengthens her connection with audiences who appreciate honesty.

Her music often addresses social themes subtly rather than through heavy-handed messaging. Songs about organ donation ("Just Like That"), prison hospice programs ("Down the Hall"), and everyday people's struggles reflect compassion without preachiness. This approach allows listeners to find personal meaning while recognizing broader social relevance, demonstrating that art can inspire change without sacrificing entertainment value.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does Bonnie Raitt's 2026 tour begin and end?

The Live 2026 Tour launches May 28, 2026 in Spokane, Washington, and concludes June 27, 2026 in Winnipeg, Manitoba. U.S. dates run through June 13 in Bellingham, Washington, followed by Canadian performances from June 16-27 with special guest Jon Cleary. The tour focuses on West Coast venues and Canadian cities, with dates announced at BonnieRaitt.com.

Are Bonnie Raitt tickets from BigStub guaranteed authentic?

Yes, every BigStub ticket comes with comprehensive buyer protection backed by over 20 years in business and the highest Trustpilot rating among ticket sellers. All sellers undergo rigorous verification before listing tickets. Your tickets are guaranteed to arrive before the event and be valid for entry, or you receive a full refund. Our marketplace reputation depends on trust and reliability.

Can I find Bonnie Raitt tickets below face value?

Our resale marketplace frequently offers tickets below face value as verified sellers adjust pricing based on supply and demand. Unlike primary ticket sellers with fixed prices, our competitive marketplace creates opportunities for value-conscious buyers. Monitor listings regularly and compare options across dates and venues to find the best deals. All displayed prices include fees with no hidden charges at checkout.

What songs will Bonnie Raitt perform on the 2026 tour?

While setlists vary by show, expect Grammy-winning songs from "Just Like That..." including the title track and "Made Up Mind" alongside career-spanning classics like "Something to Talk About," "I Can't Make You Love Me," "Angel from Montgomery," "Love Me Like a Man," and "Nick of Time." Raitt typically performs 90-120 minutes, balancing new material with fan favorites while showcasing her signature slide guitar technique.

Is Bonnie Raitt's music appropriate for all ages?

Yes, Bonnie Raitt concerts welcome all ages. Her music addresses mature themes like love, loss, and social issues but does so with artistic grace rather than explicit content. Many families bring teenagers and young adults to introduce them to authentic blues and Americana music. The concert atmosphere is respectful and celebratory, making it suitable for music lovers of any age seeking quality artistry.

How long are Bonnie Raitt concerts?

Typical Bonnie Raitt performances run 90 minutes to two hours, depending on venue curfews and whether she includes encores. Shows usually feature her full band performing without opening acts (except for U.S. dates with TBA openers and Canadian dates with Jon Cleary). The pacing balances energetic blues-rock numbers with contemplative ballads, creating dynamic shows that maintain audience engagement throughout.

What makes Bonnie Raitt's guitar playing special?

Bonnie Raitt is one of the few women of her generation to master bottleneck slide guitar technique, learning from blues legends like Mississippi Fred McDowell and Fred Carter. Her slide work combines technical precision with emotional expressiveness, creating vocal-like tones that complement her singing. She plays both acoustic and electric guitars, often switching between standard fingerpicking and slide techniques within songs, demonstrating versatility few guitarists achieve.

Why did Bonnie Raitt win Song of the Year at the 2023 Grammys?

Bonnie Raitt's "Just Like That" won Song of the Year for its exceptional songwriting—a poignant narrative about organ donation told from a mother's perspective meeting her deceased son's heart recipient. The award recognizes songwriting craft rather than commercial success, and voters responded to Raitt's emotional depth, storytelling clarity, and musical tribute to John Prine's narrative style. Her victory over chart-topping hits by Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, and Harry Styles validated artistic substance over streaming numbers.

Who is special guest Jon Cleary on the Canadian tour dates?

Jon Cleary is a Grammy-winning pianist and songwriter from New Orleans known for blending R&B, funk, and traditional New Orleans music. He contributed to Raitt's "Just Like That..." album and has toured with Taj Mahal and Bonnie Raitt previously. His energetic piano style and soulful vocals complement Raitt's blues-rock approach, creating dynamic musical partnerships on stage. Canadian audiences will enjoy both his solo opening sets and likely collaborations during Raitt's performance.

What should I wear to a Bonnie Raitt concert?

No dress code applies—wear comfortable clothing appropriate for the venue type. Theater shows typically see business casual to dressy casual attire, while outdoor amphitheater concerts lean more casual with layers for temperature changes. Many fans wear Bonnie Raitt or blues-themed apparel. Comfort is key since concerts run 90-120 minutes. Check venue-specific policies regarding bags, cameras, and outside items before attending.

Can I take photos and videos during Bonnie Raitt concerts?

Photo and video policies vary by venue. Many theaters prohibit photography, while outdoor venues may allow non-flash photos. Bonnie Raitt generally permits fans to capture memories but asks that recordings don't distract others or use flash during performances. Check specific venue policies before attending. Social media sharing is typically welcomed, helping spread appreciation for live music while respecting copyright for extended recordings.

What are the best seats for experiencing Bonnie Raitt live?

Orchestra or front mezzanine seats in theaters offer optimal views of Raitt's guitar technique and facial expressions while maintaining excellent acoustics. Outdoor amphitheater reserved seats provide guaranteed sightlines, while lawn areas offer relaxed, affordable options. For Raitt's intimate, storytelling style, closer seats enhance connection with her performance, though her strong voice and band sound project well throughout venues. Consider your priority: intimate proximity or overall sound quality.

How can I stay updated on Bonnie Raitt tour announcements?

Visit BonnieRaitt.com for official tour announcements, ticket presale information, and updates. Follow her verified social media accounts for news and behind-the-scenes content. Sign up for email newsletters through her official website to receive presale codes and tour date additions. Ticketmaster's Bonnie Raitt page also provides official ticketing information and alerts.

What happens if a Bonnie Raitt show is cancelled or postponed?

In rare cancellation scenarios, BigStub notifies ticket holders via email and processes automatic full refunds. For postponements, original tickets typically remain valid for rescheduled dates, with refund options available if you cannot attend new dates. Our buyer protection covers all contingencies. Given Raitt's professionalism and 50+ years touring without major cancellations, shows proceed as scheduled barring extraordinary circumstances.

Why does Bonnie Raitt tour less frequently than other artists?

At 75, Bonnie Raitt balances touring with health, wellness, and personal life. She maintains 38 years of sobriety through consistent self-care including yoga, hiking, and adequate rest. Rather than grueling year-round schedules, she tours strategically in concentrated periods, ensuring high-quality performances without burnout. This approach prioritizes sustainability over maximum exposure, allowing her to continue performing at elite levels decades into her career.