Album Information Section

Album Title: Road Tested

Artist: Bonnie Raitt

Original Release Date: November 7, 1995

Label: Unknown Label

Genres: Blues, Rock, Americana

• 1. Thing Called Love (4:48)
• 2. Three Time Loser (3:39)
• 3. Love Letter (4:38)
• 4. Never Make Your Move Too Soon (3:32)
• 5. Something to Talk About (3:43)
• 6. Matters of the Heart (4:59)
• 7. Shake a Little (4:39)
• 8. Have a Heart (5:45)
• 9. Love Me Like a Man (5:12)
• 10. The Kokomo Medley (5:00)
• 11. Louise (3:47)
• 12. Dimming of the Day (4:19)
• 13. Longing in Their Hearts (5:03)
• 14. Come to Me (5:02)
• 15. Love Sneakin’ Up on You (3:52)
• 16. Burning Down the House (4:03)
• 17. I Can’t Make You Love Me (5:44)
• 18. Feeling of Falling (6:45)
• 19. I Believe I’m in Love With You (4:20)
• 20. Rock Steady (4:13)
• 21. My Opening Farewell (4:57)
• 22. Angel From Montgomery (5:17)

Recording Information

“Road Tested” was recorded at the renowned Capitol Studios in Hollywood, California, a location known for its state-of-the-art equipment and rich history in music production. The recording sessions took place during 1995, coinciding with the album’s release. Bonnie Raitt, a seasoned artist by this point, collaborated with producer and engineer Joe Wissert, who brought a wealth of experience to the project. Wissert had previously worked with notable artists, providing a sound that complemented Raitt’s bluesy roots.

Noteworthy recording techniques were employed, including the use of vintage microphones and analog recording methods, which contributed to the album’s warm, rich sound. One fascinating production note is that Raitt chose to incorporate live recordings from her performances, which added an authentic and spontaneous feel to the album, capturing the energy of her live shows.

Band Context

By the time “Road Tested” was released, Bonnie Raitt had established herself as a formidable presence in the music industry. Following the commercial success of her albums in the early 1990s, including the Grammy-winning “Luck of the Draw,” Raitt was on a creative high, maintaining a blend of rock, blues, and folk influences. The lineup during the recording process included Raitt on vocals and guitar, along with a talented group of musicians who supported her, including bassist James “Hutch” Hutchinson and drummer Ricky Fataar.

Before the release of “Road Tested,” Raitt had experienced significant personal and professional growth, including her advocacy for social causes and a deepening engagement with her musical roots. This period marked a transition where she began to focus more on live performance as a means of connecting with her audience, which ultimately shaped the character of the album.

Track Commentary

The album opens with “Thing Called Love,” a powerful track that showcases Raitt’s signature blend of blues and rock, setting the tone for the rest of the album. “Three Time Loser” and “Love Letter” follow, presenting a mix of heartbreak and resilience that reflects Raitt’s lyrical prowess. The standout track “I Can’t Make You Love Me,” which has become a modern classic, showcases Raitt’s emotive vocal delivery and has resonated deeply with listeners, often cited in discussions about the best ballads of the 1990s.

The “Kokomo Medley” is another highlight, where Raitt pays homage to various artists and genres, giving listeners a taste of her eclectic influences. The album also features the poignant “Angel From Montgomery,” a song that has become synonymous with Raitt, showcasing her ability to convey deep emotion through her music. Overall, “Road Tested” is celebrated for its live recordings that capture the essence of Raitt’s performances, inviting listeners to experience the energy and spontaneity of her concerts.

Critically, the album received positive reviews for its authenticity and Raitt’s vocal performances, further solidifying her status as one of the leading voices in contemporary music. The project not only reflects her artistic evolution but also cements her legacy as a vital figure in the blues and rock genres.