In the realm of 1980s music, certain songs transcend mere popularity to become cultural touchstones. Kim Carnes’ “Bette Davis Eyes” is undoubtedly one of these iconic tracks. This song, instantly recognizable by its distinctive synth riff and husky vocals, captivated audiences worldwide and continues to resonate today. But beyond its catchy melody, the story of “Bette Davis Eyes Song” is rich with songwriting twists, lyrical mysteries, and a celebrated actress’s unexpected appreciation. Let’s delve into the fascinating journey of this enduring hit and uncover the layers behind its creation and impact.
The Genesis of “Bette Davis Eyes”: From Jazz Ballad to Rock Anthem
The origins of “Bette Davis Eyes” stretch back to 1974, long before Kim Carnes’s chart-topping rendition. The song was a collaborative effort between songwriters Jackie DeShannon and Donna Weiss. DeShannon, inspired by the captivating presence of Bette Davis in the 1942 film Now, Voyager, conceived the initial idea. As DeShannon recounted in an interview, their shared admiration for the legendary actress sparked the creative process. Weiss brought lyrical ideas, and together they crafted the song as a tribute to Davis’s mesmerizing persona. Interestingly, the original version penned by DeShannon and Weiss was not the synth-driven new wave anthem we know today. Instead, it was conceived as a 1920s-style jazz ballad, a testament to their versatile songwriting approach.
In 1975, Jackie DeShannon herself recorded “Bette Davis Eyes” for her album New Arrangement. This initial recording presented the song in its intended jazz style, a stark contrast to the later, more famous version. DeShannon intended to release it, but creative differences regarding the arrangement with producer Val Garay led to a change of plans. DeShannon envisioned an arrangement closer to what Kim Carnes eventually recorded, but at the time, she lacked the influence to insist on her vision. This divergence in artistic direction ultimately paved the way for the song to find its way to Kim Carnes. Donna Weiss, believing in the song’s potential, continued to circulate a demo, eventually leading it to Carnes’s attention. This twist of fate set the stage for “Bette Davis Eyes song” to transform into a global phenomenon.
Kim Carnes and the Electrifying Transformation
When Kim Carnes encountered “Bette Davis Eyes,” it was Donna Weiss who presented her with the demo while Carnes was recording. This chance encounter proved to be a pivotal moment for both the song and Carnes’s career. Producer Val Garay, who had previously worked with Jackie DeShannon, was also at the helm for Carnes’s recording. Upon hearing the original demo, Garay felt it sounded too much like a Leon Russell track, prompting him to reimagine the song’s sonic landscape. He enlisted keyboardist Bill Cuomo, who introduced the now-iconic synth riff using the then-new Sequential Circuits Prophet-5 synthesizer. This signature riff, coupled with deliberately “cheap-sounding” drums, became the defining characteristic of Carnes’s version. Remarkably, the entire track was recorded live in the studio on the very first take, capturing a raw and energetic performance that resonated with listeners. This bold and innovative arrangement propelled “Bette Davis Eyes song” into the new wave sound of the era, making it irresistibly catchy and instantly memorable.
“Crow Blush” or “Pro Blush”: The Lyrical Misunderstanding
One of the intriguing footnotes in the “Bette Davis Eyes” story is the lyrical ambiguity surrounding the line: “And she knows what it takes to make a crow blush.” Jackie DeShannon’s original recording clearly articulated “crow blush.” However, Kim Carnes’s rendition, due to a mis-transcription of the lyrics, rendered it as “pro blush.” This lyrical divergence sparked confusion and debate among listeners. The phrase “to make a crow blush” is an early 20th-century Midwestern U.S. colloquialism, signifying the ability to easily embarrass or fluster someone. The arranger for Carnes’s version, unfamiliar with this idiom, likely contributed to the misinterpretation. Despite the lyrical alteration, or perhaps because of it, the “pro blush” version became widely accepted and disseminated through numerous cover versions, further cementing this slightly altered lyric into popular culture.
Bette Davis’s Endorsement and the Song’s Enduring Legacy
When “Bette Davis Eyes song” soared to the top of the charts in 1981, reaching number 10 in the UK and dominating the US Billboard Hot 100 for an impressive nine weeks, it garnered attention from none other than Bette Davis herself. Then 73 years old, Davis was deeply touched and flattered by the song. She sent letters of appreciation to songwriters Jackie DeShannon and Donna Weiss, as well as to Kim Carnes, expressing her delight at being referenced in such a contemporary hit. The song’s success culminated in a Grammy Award, further solidifying its place in music history. Davis, in a gesture of gratitude and admiration, sent roses to the songwriters and Carnes, acknowledging their creative tribute. “Bette Davis Eyes” not only became one of the biggest hits of 1981, second only to Olivia Newton-John’s “Physical” in the US year-end charts, but it also stands as a testament to the enduring allure of Bette Davis and the captivating power of a song that seamlessly blends songwriting artistry with innovative production. The story of “Bette Davis Eyes song” is a compelling example of how a song can evolve, transform, and ultimately capture the hearts of generations.
