Top 10 Rita Coolidge Songs

Photo: Seattle Municipal Archives from Seattle, WA, CC BY 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Our Top 10 Rita Coolidge Songs list looks back at the songs of a brilliant female vocalist who specialized in her own interpretations of classic songs across all musical genres. Covering songs written by artists such as Neil Young, Carole King, Boz Scaggs, and so many others, Rita Coolidge has enjoyed a very successful musical career since the early 1970s. Rita Coolidge is a Grammy Award-winning artist and one of a few select who have had the privilege of singing a James Bond theme song. An honor usually reserved for the hot artist at the time of release.

Before she enjoyed solo success, Rita Coolidge had worked as a backup singer with some of the most legendary artists in classic rock history. She worked with Eric Clapton, Bob Dylan, Jimi Hendrix, Leon Russell, Joe Cocker, Harry Chapin, Graham Nash, Stephen Stills, and Dave Mason. It has been claimed that she wrote the piano ending to the classic song “Layla” without receiving any songwriting credit for it.

# 10 – From The Bottle To The Bottom

We open our Top Rita Coolidge Songs with the classic song “From The Bottle To The Bottom.” The song is the first of two from the Rita Coolidge album she recorded with her husband, Kris Kristofferson, Full Moon. The song “From The Bottle To The Bottom” earned the two a Grammy Award in 1974.

Full Moon is the second duet album by Kris Kristofferson and Rita Coolidge, released in September 1973. By the time of this album, Kristofferson was already an established name in country music, known for his songwriting prowess, while Coolidge had gained a reputation as a versatile vocalist. The two had previously collaborated on The Pilgrim: Chapter 33 and had married in 1973, which added a deeper emotional connection to their work together on Full Moon.

The album was recorded at Sunset Sound Studios in Los Angeles, California, and produced by David Anderle, a key figure in West Coast rock and folk circles. Anderle’s production brought out the subtle blend of country, rock, and folk elements that defined the record. It highlights Kristofferson’s raw songwriting and Coolidge’s soothing, sultry vocals. Together, they deliver a series of tracks that range from heartfelt ballads to more upbeat numbers, showcasing the chemistry between the two artists.

Among the musicians contributing to the album were some of the best session players of the era, including Stephen Bruton on guitar, Sammy Creason on drums, and Booker T. Jones on organ, adding layers of depth to the music. Coolidge’s vocal harmonies perfectly complemented Kristofferson’s rougher-edged delivery, and the result was a more polished and refined sound compared to Kristofferson’s solo work.

Full Moon was well-received by both critics and fans, reaching number one on the Billboard Country Albums chart and solidifying the duo as one of the most notable acts of the time. It even earned a Grammy Award for Best Country Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group.

The album features a mix of original compositions and covers. The standout track, “A Song I’d Like to Sing,” sets the tone for a deeply personal album, while the cover of the Everly Brothers’ “Lover Please” adds a fun, upbeat contrast to the more introspective songs.

# 9 – One Fine Day

Continuing with our top 10 Rita Coolidge Songs list, we turn to her great recording of the Gerry Goffin Carole King penned song “One Fine Day.” Rita Coolidge recorded the song 1979 and released it on her Satisfied album. The song was released as the album’s first single. The song “One Fine Day” has been covered over time by a wide variety of artists, including The Mindbenders, Carole King herself, Bo Donaldson and the Heywoods, and, of course, the great original version by the Chiffons.

Satisfied is the seventh studio album by the American singer Rita Coolidge, released in 1979. At this point in her career, Coolidge was already an established name in the world of soft rock and adult contemporary music, known for her smooth, soulful voice. Satisfied perfectly captures the easy-going, laid-back vibe of late ’70s pop, blending elements of rock, country, and R&B. This album was produced by Coolidge’s longtime collaborator David Anderle, whose expert touch allowed her vocal style to shine through, creating a warm and cohesive sound.

The album was recorded at Sunset Sound Studios in Los Angeles, where Coolidge had become a regular, thanks to her earlier success. The production team included top-notch session players like Booker T. Jones on keyboards, Michael Utley on synthesizers, and Leland Sklar on bass. Their contributions gave Satisfied a rich, polished sound that complemented Coolidge’s emotive delivery.

Critically, Satisfied was well received, though it didn’t reach the heights of her previous albums like Anytime…Anywhere, which featured the hits “(Your Love Has Lifted Me) Higher and Higher” and “We’re All Alone.” However, it still found a devoted audience and peaked at No. 27 on the Billboard 200 chart. The single “I’d Rather Leave While I’m in Love,” penned by Peter Allen and Carole Bayer Sager, became one of the standout tracks, reaching No. 3 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart and giving Coolidge another radio hit.

# 8 – I’d Rather Leave While I’m in Love

“I’d Rather Leave While I’m in Love” stands as one of Rita Coolidge’s most tender and heartfelt performances, encapsulating the emotional vulnerability that defined much of her late 1970s work. Released in 1979 on her album Satisfied, this song captures the bittersweet sentiment of walking away from a relationship while it’s still in a good place, avoiding the inevitable pain that often comes with its deterioration. Written by the legendary duo Peter Allen and Carole Bayer Sager, the lyrics are a poignant reflection on love, loss, and self-preservation, themes that Coolidge delivers with remarkable nuance and sincerity.

Coolidge’s soft, soulful vocals elevate the already heartfelt lyrics, making “I’d Rather Leave While I’m in Love” resonate deeply with listeners. The song’s production perfectly complements her voice, featuring a delicate arrangement that blends elements of pop and soft rock, hallmarks of Coolidge’s sound during this era. The subtle instrumentation allows the emotional core of the song to shine through, giving it a timeless quality that has helped it endure as one of her most beloved tracks.

Commercially, the song performed well, reaching the top forty on the Billboard Hot 100 and peaking at number three on the Billboard Adult Contemporary charts. Its success further cemented Coolidge’s status as a leading voice in the adult contemporary genre. “I’d Rather Leave While I’m in Love” became one of the standout tracks on Satisfied, an album that exemplified Coolidge’s ability to convey deep emotions through her music while maintaining a broad appeal. This song, with its timeless message and Coolidge’s flawless delivery, remains one of the most memorable highlights of her illustrious career.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yCaq9BOe5Yc

# 7 – I Believe in You

Rita Coolidge showcased her remarkable talent for interpreting songs from some of the greatest rock and roll artists early on in her career, and her version of Neil Young’s “I Believe In You” is a prime example of this gift. Featured on her 1971 self-titled debut album, Rita Coolidge, her rendition takes Neil Young’s introspective original and transforms it into something uniquely her own. Coolidge’s signature style—blending folk, rock, and a touch of Southern soul—breathes new life into the song while maintaining its emotional depth.

Neil Young’s version, released on his After the Gold Rush album in 1970, is known for its raw vulnerability, with Young’s haunting vocals and sparse instrumentation. Coolidge, however, adds a layer of warmth and richness to the track, with her smooth, soulful voice and more polished production. Her interpretation offers a different perspective on the song’s themes of uncertainty and devotion, making it feel both personal and timeless.

Coolidge’s ability to cover iconic songs like “I Believe In You” while imbuing them with her own distinct flavor became a hallmark of her career. Her debut album featured other standout covers as well, cementing her reputation as an artist who could reinterpret rock classics with a soulful edge, all while making the songs sound fresh and new. This version of “I Believe In You” was an early indicator of Coolidge’s unique ability to blend rock and soul influences, paving the way for a career filled with unforgettable covers and original music.

# 6 – The Way You Do the Things You Do

“The Way You Do the Things You Do ” is one of the most popular songs in classic rock history. Everyone knows the great Temptations version, released in 1964. It became the Temptations’ first big hit of their career. Rita Coolidge recorded the song in 1978, putting her own fabulous mark on the classic Smokey Robinson-penned tune. It was released as the third single from her great album Anytime…Anywhere.

Anytime…Anywhere is the sixth studio album by American singer Rita Coolidge, released in 1977. This record marked a major turning point in her career, catapulting her to new heights of mainstream success. With its smooth blend of soft rock, pop, and a touch of country, Anytime…Anywhere became one of Coolidge’s most beloved albums, earning her both critical acclaim and commercial success.

The album was recorded at Sunset Sound Studios in Los Angeles, a favorite of many top artists at the time, and it was produced by David Anderle, who had worked with Coolidge on previous projects. Under his production, the album shines with a polished sound, making it accessible to a wide audience while maintaining Coolidge’s signature laid-back style. The musicians involved in this album were among the best session players of the day, including Booker T. Jones on keyboards, Dean Parks on guitar, and Michael Utley on piano and synthesizer, all contributing to the album’s rich and varied sound.

The standout single from Anytime…Anywhere is undoubtedly her cover of the Jackie Wilson hit “(Your Love Has Lifted Me) Higher and Higher,” which became Coolidge’s highest-charting single, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topping the Adult Contemporary charts. Another notable track is “We’re All Alone,” a ballad penned by Boz Scaggs that went on to become a major hit, reaching No. 7 on the Hot 100. Coolidge’s version of the song is tender and emotive, making it one of her signature tracks.

Critically, the album was praised for its accessible yet heartfelt approach, combining cover songs with original material in a way that felt cohesive and well-rounded. Coolidge’s voice is the star of the show, effortlessly gliding through soft rock ballads and up-tempo tracks with a soulful sincerity that resonated deeply with listeners. Anytime…Anywhere also cemented her reputation as one of the leading female vocalists of the late 1970s.

The album was a commercial success, reaching No. 6 on the Billboard 200 and going platinum, establishing Coolidge as a major force in the adult contemporary and pop markets. The album’s diverse mix of covers and original material, along with Coolidge’s warm and inviting vocal performances, made it a favorite among fans and a staple of her live performances.

# 5 – You

As we enter the second half of our top Rita Coolidge Songs, we present this great Rita Coolidge recording, “You.” Released in 1978, the song has a slight disco feel mixed with a great R&B groove. It was released on the Rita Coolidge album Love Me Again. The song was a big hit in the U.S., hitting number three on the Billboard Adult Contemporary charts.

Love Me Again is the seventh studio album by American singer-songwriter Rita Coolidge, released in 1978. Following the success of her previous album, Anytime…Anywhere, this release showcased Coolidge’s ability to continue crafting soulful, heartfelt music while maintaining her strong presence on the pop and adult contemporary charts. Known for her smooth vocal delivery and versatile style, Love Me Again further cemented Coolidge’s reputation as one of the leading female vocalists of the era.

The album was recorded at Sunset Sound Studios in Los Angeles, where many of Coolidge’s classic hits came to life. David Anderle returned as producer, continuing his collaboration with Coolidge that had proven so successful in the past. Together, they created an album that blends soft rock, pop, and a touch of country—styles that Coolidge had embraced throughout her career. The session musicians on Love Me Again were some of the best in the business, featuring Dean Parks on guitar, Michael Utley on keyboards, and Booker T. Jones lending his signature sound on organ and piano.

The title track, “Love Me Again,” was released as a single and became one of the standout songs on the album, peaking at No. 13 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart. Coolidge’s tender and emotive delivery on the song captured the heartfelt longing of the lyrics, making it an instant favorite among fans. Another notable track is her rendition of the classic tune “One Fine Day,” originally made famous by The Chiffons in the 1960s. Coolidge’s version gave the song a fresh, contemporary feel while still honoring its pop roots.

Love Me Again was a success, peaking at No. 37 on the Billboard 200 and further solidifying Coolidge’s position as a major force in pop and adult contemporary music.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uyC7NWovwGw

# 4 – All Time High

In 1983, Rita Coolidge delivered one of the most memorable James Bond theme songs with “All Time High,” the title track for Octopussy, the 13th installment in the iconic film series. Starring Roger Moore as the suave and fearless 007, Octopussy brought Coolidge’s voice into the legendary catalog of Bond themes, alongside the likes of Shirley Bassey and Paul McCartney. “All Time High” was composed by John Barry, the long-time Bond composer responsible for the franchise’s signature sound, with lyrics by the legendary Tim Rice, known for his work on The Lion King and Evita. Together, they crafted a lush, romantic ballad that perfectly suited Coolidge’s smooth, velvety vocals.

Unlike some of the high-octane Bond themes of the past, “All Time High” stands out for its understated elegance and timeless feel. Coolidge’s voice is the perfect vehicle for this slow, melodic ballad, which speaks to the romance and sophistication that often underpin the action and espionage in Bond films. The song’s reflective lyrics, paired with Barry’s sweeping orchestration, gave “All Time High” a distinct place in Bond’s musical history—one of subtlety and grace rather than bombast.

Commercially, “All Time High” was a significant success for Coolidge. It climbed to the top of the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart, where it held the No. 1 position, marking her as a favorite in the genre. The song also made its mark on the Billboard Hot 100, peaking within the Top 40 and further solidifying Coolidge’s reputation as a versatile artist capable of crossing musical boundaries. Even though it didn’t include the title of the film— a rarity for Bond themes—”All Time High” is often regarded as one of the most distinctive and successful songs in the franchise’s long history.

This song’s success wasn’t limited to the United States, either. It resonated globally, becoming a recognizable hit in the UK and other markets. Its placement in Octopussy marked a period where Bond themes were expected to set the tone for the films, not only accompanying the opening credits but also embodying the mood and style of the entire movie. Coolidge’s vocals, combined with the musical prowess of Barry and the lyrical expertise of Rice, made “All Time High” one of the most enduring tracks of the Bond legacy

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bFurkDf6WXg

# 3 – “Loving Arms“

At number three on our Rita Coolidge Songs list is the heartfelt duet “Loving Arms,” a standout collaboration between Rita Coolidge and her then-husband Kris Kristofferson. Released as the second single from their Full Moon album in 1973, this song is a prime example of the musical chemistry the two shared, both as a couple and as artists. Their voices intertwine beautifully, creating a deeply emotional and tender performance that resonates with listeners long after the song ends.

Written by singer-songwriter Tom Jans, “Loving Arms” tells a poignant story of longing and regret, with both Coolidge and Kristofferson delivering raw, soulful performances. The song’s lyrics capture the sorrow of lost love, and the way Coolidge and Kristofferson trade verses brings out the depth of emotion in every line. Their harmonies, particularly in the chorus, add a layer of vulnerability that elevates the track to something truly special.

Full Moon, released in 1973, was a critical and commercial success for the pair, earning them a Grammy Award for Best Country Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group. “Loving Arms” became one of the defining tracks of the album, further solidifying Coolidge and Kristofferson’s status as one of the leading duos in country and soft rock during the 1970s. With its timeless appeal and sincere delivery, “Loving Arms” remains a beloved classic, showcasing both the artistry of Coolidge and Kristofferson as well as the beauty of their musical partnership.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lr8pwRDKx7U

# 2 – We’re All Alone

As we approach the end of our top 10 Rita Coolidge Songs list, we celebrate one of her most beloved and enduring recordings, “We’re All Alone.” This ballad, originally written by Boz Scaggs and featured on his classic 1976 album Silk Degrees, first gained attention through Scaggs’ evocative rendition. However, it was Rita Coolidge’s 1977 version that propelled the song to mainstream success, cementing it as one of her signature hits.

At the suggestion of A&M Records, Coolidge recorded “We’re All Alone” after Scaggs chose not to release it as a single. The decision proved to be a masterstroke, as Coolidge’s emotionally rich and smooth vocal delivery transformed the song into a massive hit. Her version peaked at number seven on the Billboard Hot 100, marking a significant achievement in her career. But perhaps even more impressively, the song shot to the top of the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart, where it held the number one spot. It became a defining moment not just for Coolidge, but for the Adult Contemporary genre of the late 1970s.

Coolidge’s heartfelt interpretation, paired with a lush arrangement that highlights her vocal warmth and sincerity, is widely regarded as the definitive rendition. The song has since become a timeless ballad, often associated with Coolidge’s ability to convey deep emotion through her voice. Her version of “We’re All Alone” continues to resonate with listeners, securing its place as one of her most iconic tracks and a highlight of her successful career in the 1970s.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZdbGDLC4qhI

# 1 – (Your Love Has Lifted Me) Higher and Higher

We close out our Top 10 Rita Coolidge Songs list with her most successful single, “(Your Love Has Lifted Me) Higher and Higher.” Released in 1977 on her Anytime…Anywhere album, the song quickly became a defining moment in Coolidge’s career. It soared to number two on the Billboard Hot 100, just missing the top spot but securing a place in music history. Despite not hitting number one on the Hot 100, it claimed the top spot on the U.S. Cash Box charts and also reached number one in Canada, solidifying its international appeal.

“(Your Love Has Lifted Me) Higher and Higher” had already cemented its legacy in classic rock and soul history long before Coolidge recorded her version. Written by Gary Jackson, Raynard Miner, and Carl Smith, the song was originally a massive hit for Jackie Wilson in 1967, where it became one of his most iconic songs. Coolidge’s version, however, brought a fresh perspective to the track, infusing it with her signature laid-back, soulful vocals and a soft rock sensibility. Her interpretation struck a chord with audiences in the late ’70s, becoming one of the era’s most beloved feel-good anthems.

The song’s enduring popularity is evident in its countless covers and performances, notably Bruce Springsteen’s electrifying version at The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s 25th Anniversary Show. Springsteen had also included the song in his live sets during the late 1970s, further showcasing its broad appeal across genres and decades. Coolidge’s version, however, remains a standout, capturing the breezy, feel-good spirit of the time while showcasing her unique ability to take a well-known song and make it distinctly her own. It’s no wonder that “(Your Love Has Lifted Me) Higher and Higher” continues to be one of Rita Coolidge’s most celebrated and enduring hits.