Bonnie Bramlett is an American singer, songwriter, and actress best known for her work with the rock group Delaney & Bonnie and Friends. She has had a long and successful career in the music industry, spanning over five decades.
Born in Alton, Illinois in 1944, Bonnie Bramlett grew up in a family of gospel singers. She began singing in church choirs at a young age and soon developed a love for music. At the age of 16, Bonnie left home and moved to St. Louis, Missouri, where she joined a female vocal group called The Opals. She then moved to Los Angeles, California, and in 1967, she and her then-husband, Delaney Bramlett, formed the rock group Delaney & Bonnie and Friends.
The group released several successful albums, including Accept No Substitute, Home, and On Tour with Eric Clapton. They toured extensively throughout the United States and Europe, opening for acts such as the Allman Brothers Band, The Band, and Bob Dylan. Bonnie’s powerful, soulful voice won her critical acclaim and helped the group gain a large following.
In 1972, Bonnie and Delaney parted ways and she went on to pursue a solo career. She released several solo albums, including Sweet Bonnie Bramlett, It’s Time, and Where I’m Coming From. She also continued to collaborate with other artists, appearing on albums by Leon Russell, Little Feat, and the Eagles.
In addition to her musical career, Bonnie Bramlett has also appeared in several films and television shows, including The Blues Brothers (1980), Let’s Get Harry (1986), and The Simpsons (1990). She has also written and produced a number of songs for other artists, including “Spooky” for Dusty Springfield and “Them Changes” for Buddy Miles.
Today, Bonnie Bramlett continues to perform and record music. She has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Blues Hall of Fame and has been honored with numerous awards, including an Honorary Doctorate of Music from Berklee College of Music. She is an artist who has made a lasting impression on the music industry and is an inspiration to many aspiring musicians.
