The song “Wind Beneath My Wings” holds a special place in popular music, often associated with Bette Midler’s Grammy-winning rendition from 1990. However, delving into the song’s history reveals a fascinating early recording by Sheena Easton, made four decades prior in Montserrat. While Easton may not be as widely recognized as some of her contemporaries who also recorded on the island, her connection to this iconic song offers a unique perspective on its journey to becoming a beloved classic.
Easton’s version, recorded during her time in Montserrat, predates Midler’s by several years. This detail alone adds intrigue to Easton’s discography, positioning her as an early interpreter of a song that would later achieve global fame. It raises the question: why did Midler’s version soar to such heights while Easton’s remained relatively under the radar? Perhaps the answer lies in the nuances of their respective performances and the shifting landscape of popular music at the time.
Despite not penning her own songs, Easton possessed a keen ear for selecting material. Her decision to record “Wind Beneath My Wings” demonstrates an early recognition of the song’s emotional depth and universal appeal. This choice highlights her artistic intuition, even if it didn’t immediately translate into chart-topping success for this particular track. Interestingly, “Wind Beneath My Wings” has become a staple at British funerals, a testament to its poignant themes of gratitude and unseen support. Yet, it’s overwhelmingly Midler’s powerful delivery that resonates with audiences during these moments of remembrance, overshadowing Easton’s earlier interpretation.
Sheena Easton in a promotional shot.
Easton’s career trajectory itself is a study in versatility and perhaps, the challenges of genre-hopping. While she achieved the rare feat of charting on all five Billboard charts – pop, country, AC, R&B, and Dance – this eclecticism might have hindered her ability to cultivate a singular, deeply loyal fanbase. Emerging from a UK reality TV show and initially known for bubblegum pop, her subsequent forays into genres like jazz, country, funk, soul, and even new jack swing, while showcasing her vocal range, may have diluted her brand identity in the eyes of the public. The article mentions a perception of her later persona as inauthentic, which, whether fair or not, could have impacted her long-term recognition.
Her diverse musical explorations stand in contrast to Midler, who, while also versatile, arguably cultivated a more distinct persona and performance style that resonated strongly with audiences. This difference in artistic branding could be a contributing factor to why Midler’s version of “Wind Beneath My Wings” became the definitive one.
Sheena Easton performing live on stage.
The article’s author, while admitting not being a dedicated Sheena Easton fan, acknowledges her undeniable talent and the quality of her “Wind Beneath My Wings” rendition. This nuanced perspective is crucial. It’s not about dismissing Easton, but rather understanding the complexities of fame, song interpretation, and the factors that contribute to a song’s enduring popularity. The author’s personal anecdotes, like recalling Easton’s appearance on “The Big Time” and seeing her on chat shows, add a layer of personal reflection and context to the discussion, moving beyond a simple critique of her career.
Ultimately, the story of Sheena Easton and “Wind Beneath My Wings” is a reminder that the music industry is multifaceted. Talent alone isn’t always the sole determinant of widespread acclaim. Timing, genre, artist branding, and even a touch of serendipity all play roles in shaping a song’s destiny and an artist’s legacy. Easton’s version, though not as famous, remains a significant part of the song’s history, a testament to its power and her early recognition of its potential to touch hearts. Perhaps it’s time for a rediscovery of Sheena Easton’s “Song Beneath My Wings,” appreciating it not as a precursor to Midler’s hit, but as a valuable interpretation in its own right.
