On a summer evening in July 2017, San Francisco’s AT&T Park became the backdrop for one of those rare moments in music that lingers long after the final note. James Taylor and Bonnie Raitt—two of the most beloved voices in American music—joined forces during their co-headlining tour for a performance that fans will never forget.
The highlight came when Taylor gently strummed his guitar and began his classic ballad “You Can Close Your Eyes.” As his familiar voice filled the stadium, Raitt stepped in with soulful harmonies that wrapped around his vocals like a warm embrace. The simplicity of one guitar and two voices created something hauntingly beautiful, a performance so intimate it felt as though time itself had paused.
Throughout the tour, which took them to iconic venues like Fenway Park, Wrigley Field, and the Toyota Center, this duet often stood as the emotional centerpiece of the night. It wasn’t just a song—it was a moment of connection. Audiences were visibly moved, with many wiping away tears or holding onto loved ones as the music carried them away.
Originally written by Taylor in 1971 for his Mud Slide Slim and the Blue Horizon album, the song has always been a fan favorite. But with Raitt’s harmonies woven in, it took on new depth—more tender, more personal, almost as if it had been written for that very night. Critics like the Houston Press noted how the performance stirred powerful emotions, proving just how timeless this song has become.
What made it unforgettable was its simplicity. No flashy production, no distractions—just two legendary artists sharing a stage, letting sincerity do all the work. Taylor and Raitt reminded everyone that sometimes the most powerful moments in music are the quietest ones.
For those lucky enough to be there, it was a memory etched forever. For those who discovered it later through fan recordings, it still carries the same magic. Their duet of “You Can Close Your Eyes” stands as a reminder that true artistry doesn’t fade—it only deepens with time.