Top 10 Delaney & Bonnie Songs

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Our top 10 Delaney & Bonnie songs showcase a duo celebrated for their electrifying live performances. Comprising singers and songwriters Delaney Bramlett and Bonnie Bramlett, their marriage added a poignant dimension to their stage presence, captivating audiences with their harmonious vocals. They led a rock/soul ensemble called Delaney & Bonnie and Friends, featuring a notable array of musicians, including King Curtis, Eric Clapton, Duane Allman, and George Harrison.

Before joining forces, Delaney and Bonnie each had remarkable individual musical careers. Delaney picked up the guitar as a young boy, and Bonnie was already a seasoned performer by her early teens, having sung with the Ike & Tina Turner Revue and blues legend Albert King at just fourteen. Delaney began his solo career with Independence Records, debuting with the song “Guess I Must Be Dreaming.” The duo is particularly remembered for their 1970 live album, On Tour with Eric Clapton. Their musical collaboration began in 1967 and ended with their divorce in 1972. The musical legacy seems to have been inherited by their daughter Bekka Bramlett, who became the lead singer for Fleetwood Mac in the 1990s. Our list of the top 10 Delaney & Bonnie songs celebrates the legacy of this once joyful union of life and music.

# 10 – Free the People

Leading of our top 10 Delaney & Bonnie songs is the 1970 hit “Free the People.” Featured on their fourth studio album, To Bonnie from Delaney, “Free the People” is a standout composition by folk-rock singer and songwriter Barbara Keith, a member of The Stone Coyotes. The song advocates for compassion and support, aiming to liberate individuals from their life’s challenges. “Free the People” achieved notable success, reaching number eighty-four on the Billboard Hot 100 Chart.

# 9 – Where There’s a Will, There’s a Way

Featured on their 1970 album On Tour with Eric Clapton, “Where There’s a Will, There’s a Way” stands out as one of the finest Delaney & Bonnie songs. This track is a collaborative composition by Delaney & Bonnie and Bobby Whitlock. Some might suggest that the couple could have taken a cue from this song’s message to salvage their marriage. Unfortunately, their relationship was marred by escalating conflicts fueled by their addiction to cocaine. “Where There’s a Will, There’s a Way” reached the hundredth position on the Billboard Hot 100 in the last week of April 1972.

# 8 – Come On in My Kitchen

“Come On in My Kitchen” is a cover by Delaney & Bonnie from their 1971 album, Motel Shot. Originally written and released by Robert Johnson in 1937, the song is often regarded as a mesmerizing lament and stands as one of Johnson’s most significant works. Johnson, a pivotal figure in blues music, tragically died at the age of twenty-seven. Delaney & Bonnie’s rendition is an acoustic medley that features the iconic guitarist Duane Allman playing the Dobro.

# 7 – When the Battle is Over

Number seven on our top 10 Delaney & Bonnie songs is the ballad “When the Battle is Over.” This hit is one of the standout tracks from their 1969 album Accept No Substitute. Some have interpreted the song as reflecting on Delaney and Bonnie’s tumultuous relationship, though only the songwriters, Dr. John and Jessie Hill, could confirm if the duo’s life truly inspired the lyrics. The song’s opening groove is fueled by some kicking drums and groovy bass lines, and those New Orleans blues-style piano riffs make this one a must-list.

Read More: Top 10 Dr. John Songs

# 6 – Poor Elijah – Tribute to Johnson (Medley)

“Poor Elijah” is a dynamic song from Delaney & Bonnie’s 1970 album On Tour with Eric Clapton. Released in March 1970, the composition is a collaborative effort by Delaney Bramlett, Jim Ford, and Leon Russell. Eric Clapton’s compelling guitar performance on this track underscores his reputation as one of the best guitarists of his era. The Black Crowes also covered “Poor Elijah,” featuring it on their album Warpaint Live.

Read More: Top 10 Leon Russell Songs

# 5 – Groupie (Superstar)

Written by Bonnie Bramlett and Leon Russell, “Groupie (Superstar)” stands out as one of the best Delaney & Bonnie songs from their 1972 album D&B Together. The song was inspired by Rita Coolidge, who provided the idea based on her observations of the relationships between female groupies and rock stars during the 1960s. “Groupie (Superstar)” remains one of the duo’s most celebrated releases, having been covered by notable artists and bands, including Luther Vandross and The Carpenters.

#4 – Soul Shake

“Soul Shake” showcases the superb lyrical skills of Margaret Lewis and Myrna Smith. Featured on Delaney & Bonnie’s album, To Bonnie from Delaney, this three-minute song underscores Bonnie’s vocal talents, suggesting that her inclusion in the Hall of Fame might be long overdue. Her vocals perfectly complement Delaney’s in this catchy, upbeat ballad. The song remained on the Billboard Hot 100 Chart for six weeks, reaching its peak at number forty-three.

# 3 – Only You Know, and I Know

Number three on our top 10 Delaney & Bonnie songs list is the hit “Only You Know and I Know.” This song was released on there1970 album D & B Together. Dave Mason originally released this song on his 1970 album Alone Together. Delaney & Bonnie’s version achieved considerable success, featuring in the top 20 in the US and the top 10 in Canada.

# 2 – Comin’ Home

Featured on Delaney & Bonnie’s 1970 album On Tour with Eric Clapton, “Comin’ Home” is a standout track, distinguished by its powerful lyrics written by Bonnie Bramlett and Eric Clapton. The song, which captures the universal sentiment of returning to a loved one after a long journey, was warmly received by music fans. Its relatability and poignant message helped it chart successfully in both the US and the UK.

# 1 – Never Ending Song of Love

Written by Delaney Bramlett, “Never Ending Song of Love” is arguably the duo’s most successful song. Originally recorded for their 1971 album Motel Shot, this track surpassed all other songs by the duo on the charts, peaking at number thirteen on the Billboard Hot 100. A cover of the song by The New Seekers achieved even greater success, peaking at number two on the UK Singles Chart and reaching number one on the Irish Charts.