One of my favorite records that hangs on my wall and often finds its way to my turntable is Streetlights by Bonnie Raitt. The standout track was written by the legendary songwriter John Prine, who originally recorded it for his debut album in 1971. The following year, Carly Simon recorded her version with James Taylor on guitar at the initial sessions of her breakthrough album No Secrets. However, those sessions were shelved, and her version didn’t see the light of day until 1995. In 1973, John Denver gave the song some recognition when he included it on his Farewell Andromeda album. But in 1974, Bonnie Raitt recorded what became one of her most iconic tracks, elevating the song to new heights.
Fun Fact: Bonnie’s label, Warner Bros., wasn’t pleased with how long her previous album took to produce, so they cut her budget and demanded faster results. She chose a new producer, and together they aimed to create a more “mainstream” sound that would reach beyond her previous audience. Though Bonnie wasn’t entirely thrilled with the direction, by the end of the sessions, they had crafted some fantastic music.
Bonnie Fact: Just in case you didn’t know, Bonnie is an amazing guitarist. There are some incredible live recordings on YouTube that feature her style and ability. Here is her and Norah Jones performing “Tennessee Waltz.”
My Listening Tips: With Steve Gadd on drums, you know the song’s going to be something special. I especially love his hi-hat work on this track—simple, yet it adds so much. Then there’s Bonnie’s voice, which is absolutely captivating. It fits the lyrics that John Prine wrote so well, and you really believe every word she sings, as if she’s lived it herself.
Happy listening!
Song: “Angel From Montgomery”
Artist: Bonnie Raitt
Album: Streetlights
Year: 1974
My other favorites from the album:
“I Got Plenty”
“Rainy Day Man”
“That Song About a Midway”
“Streetlights”
I am an old woman
Named after my mother
My old man is another
Child that’s grown old
If dreams were thunder
And lightnin’ was desire
This old house would’ve burnt down
At a long time ago
Make me an angel
That flies from Montgomery
Make me a poster
Of an old rodeo
Just give me one thing
That I can hold on to
To believe in this livin’
Is just a hard way to go
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My name is Michael Sanchez and I’m an avid record collector and obscure song searcher. My goal is to post one song a day that’s been on my stereo/turntable frequently. If you don’t like the song… too bad 🙂 You can just wait for the next one.
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