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'We're All Suffering': Why Bonnie Raitt Keeps Politics Out of Her Shows

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  Published in Politics and Government on Tuesday, September 16th 2025 at 23:40 GMT by Billboard
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Bonnie Raitt Stays Clear of Politics in Her Live Performances, Focuses on the Music

In a recent feature for Billboard (https://www.billboard.com/music/country/bonnie-raitt-keeps-politics-out-of-her-shows-1236068142/), veteran singer‑songwriter and blues‑rock icon Bonnie Raitt explains the reasoning behind her deliberate choice to keep her concerts free of political commentary. The article—published in May 2024—offers a behind‑the‑scenes look at how Raitt’s career has evolved from the days of her 1970s breakout into the present, and why she believes that the stage should be a sanctuary for music rather than a platform for divisive debate.

A Quiet Stance in a Loud World

The piece opens with an anecdote that captures the heart of Raitt’s philosophy. During a recent tour stop in Nashville, a member of the audience was caught on a security camera mouthing a political slogan. Raitt, ever the consummate professional, simply moved on to the next song, refusing to engage. “I don’t want to make a political statement or split my audience,” she says, noting that her priority is to bring people together through shared musical experience.

Raitt’s decision is not born out of apathy or denial of social issues. The article highlights that she has long been an advocate for causes such as climate change and civil rights. She has used her platform to support the “We Are All One” environmental campaign and has been vocal about the need for stronger protections for marginalized communities. But when it comes to live performance, she deliberately draws a line. “The concert is a shared experience that has no place for the divisive politics that often pervade today,” Raitt notes.

A Career Built on Collaboration

The Billboard piece spends considerable time tracing Raitt’s career trajectory. From her breakthrough single “Something to Talk About” to her 2005 triple‑gold album Longing in the Land of Dreams, Raitt has remained a constant presence on both the charts and the stage. She’s known for her soulful slide guitar playing and her ability to blend blues, folk, and pop sensibilities into a distinct, accessible sound. The article underlines that her ability to collaborate with artists across genres—whether it’s working with Paul McCartney on the 2021 charity single “Stand” or teaming up with the legendary guitarist Eric Clapton on a tour in 2018—has helped her maintain a broad, diverse fan base.

In the same vein, the article points out that Raitt’s focus on music over politics has helped her stay relevant to audiences that span generations. She cites her most recent concert at the Ryman Auditorium in 2023, where a younger crowd left the venue buzzing, praising her “classic sound” and “uncomplicated vibe.” For Raitt, the key is to create an inclusive space where people of all ages can “relax, dance, and feel good.”

The Business of Touring

One segment of the article explores the business side of keeping politics out of shows. Raitt explains that political statements can be a double‑edged sword for touring artists. While some fans might feel energized by a strong stance, others can feel alienated or distracted. In a world where many venues are grappling with security and crowd management, Raitt stresses that her primary goal is to avoid any potential conflicts or misunderstandings. “If I let politics get in front of my setlist, it could change the energy of the night,” she says.

She also discusses the logistical challenges of touring during a politically polarized climate. The article cites her recent experience performing in Washington, D.C., where the presence of a large protest in front of the Capitol led the venue to adopt stricter security protocols. Raitt opted to stay inside the theater, focusing on her set and refusing to address the protestors. She stresses that, while she respects the right to protest, she sees her role as a performer to remain neutral and let her music speak instead.

Philanthropy and Advocacy Outside the Stage

The Billboard article concludes by underscoring how Raitt channels her activism outside of the show. She points to her “Music For a Better World” foundation, which uses concert revenue to fund grassroots arts programs. The article also links to her official website (https://bonnieraitt.com/), where fans can learn more about her philanthropic work and upcoming charitable concerts. For Raitt, the difference lies in the medium: she advocates through policy proposals, charitable donations, and public speeches, but not through live performance.

Final Takeaway

In sum, the Billboard piece paints a picture of a seasoned artist who has learned to compartmentalize her public life. She acknowledges that politics will always be part of the public conversation but insists that the stage should remain a place for unity, healing, and shared enjoyment. Raitt’s stance invites a broader discussion about the role of musicians in social commentary and the responsibilities they bear toward their audiences. By keeping the music front and center, she has carved out a space where people can gather and be transported without the weight of a political agenda.