Streetlights (Bonnie Raitt album)
Streetlights is the fourth studio album by American singer Bonnie Raitt, released in 1974. It marked a departure from her earlier, blues-oriented sound, leaning more towards sophisticated pop and soul arrangements. The album was produced by Jerry Ragovoy, known for his songwriting and production work in soul music.
While Streetlights showcased Raitt's versatility and vocal prowess, it received mixed reviews upon its release. Some critics praised her interpretations of songs by Joni Mitchell ("That Song About the Midway") and Allen Toussaint ("What Is Success"), but others found the production too polished and felt it lacked the raw energy of her previous work. Commercially, Streetlights was not a major success for Raitt, failing to break into the Top 50 on the Billboard charts.
Despite its initial reception, Streetlights has gained a cult following over time. It is often cited as an example of Raitt's willingness to experiment with different genres and arrangements early in her career. The album's exploration of themes like disillusionment and the search for meaning resonates with many listeners. Notable tracks include "Streetlights," the title track written by David Lasley, and her rendition of Eric Kaz and Libby Titus's "Love Has No Pride," which became a staple of her live performances.