Kim Carnes Reacts to JoJo Siwa’s Cover of “Bette Davis Eyes”
Kim Carnes, the iconic voice behind the 1981 hit “Bette Davis Eyes,” has shared her thoughts on JoJo Siwa’s recent cover of the song, which has sparked considerable discussion among fans and critics alike.
Carnes’ Initial Concerns
Upon hearing Siwa’s rendition, Carnes expressed her apprehension about the similarities between the two performances. She remarked that Siwa’s version felt too reminiscent of her own, prompting her to voice her concerns. However, she quickly emphasized the importance of discouraging online hate that could arise from this situation.
Addressing Online Hate
In a statement to TMZ, Carnes highlighted the harsh realities of the music industry, stating, “This business can be brutal, and I strongly reject the kind of hate and personal attacks I’ve seen online, whether directed at me, JoJo Siwa or anyone else. That kind of behavior doesn’t belong in music, or anywhere.” This sentiment reflects her desire for a supportive environment within the music community.
Authenticity in Music
Prior to her comments to TMZ, Carnes had shared a now-deleted social media post, where she made a distinction between merely “singing a song” and truly “embodying it.” She emphasized, “I’ve always believed authenticity is what makes music timeless… I’m forever grateful to be the voice behind this one.” This statement underlines her deep connection to the song and its legacy.
The Legacy of “Bette Davis Eyes”
Originally penned by Donna Weiss and Jackie DeShannon in 1974, “Bette Davis Eyes” was first recorded by DeShannon but did not achieve significant success. Carnes, however, saw potential in the song when Weiss brought it to her in 1980. She recalled, “When Donna Weiss… first brought me the song in 1980, I saw a chance to make it my own.”
Recording Magic
Carnes elaborated on the recording process, noting that the entire track was captured live in a single take, with no overdubs or manipulation. “What you hear on that record is what we played. And the result was magic,” she stated. This organic approach contributed to the song’s enduring appeal, earning Carnes over 130 million streams annually.
Conclusion
As Kim Carnes navigates the complexities of her legacy with “Bette Davis Eyes,” she remains proud of the magic she created and the impact it continues to have. Her commitment to authenticity in music and her call for kindness within the industry stand as a testament to her character and dedication to her craft.
FAQs
What is “Bette Davis Eyes” about?
“Bette Davis Eyes” is a song that captures the allure and mystique of the legendary actress Bette Davis, using her as a metaphor for a captivating woman.
Who originally wrote “Bette Davis Eyes”?
The song was written by Donna Weiss and Jackie DeShannon in 1974.
How long did Kim Carnes’ version stay at No. 1?
Kim Carnes’ version of “Bette Davis Eyes” topped the charts for five weeks in 1981.
What did Kim Carnes think of JoJo Siwa’s cover?
Carnes expressed concern about the similarities between Siwa’s cover and her original performance but emphasized the importance of supporting artists and discouraging online hate.
