Kim Carnes, an American singer and songwriter, is best known for her distinctive raspy vocal style and her 1981 hit single “Bette Davis Eyes,” which catapulted her to global stardom. Born on this day July 20, 1945 in Los Angeles, Carnes began her music career as a member of the folk group “The New Christy Minstrels” in the mid-1960s. However, it wasn’t until the release of “Bette Davis Eyes” that she achieved significant recognition in the music industry.
“Bette Davis Eyes,” penned by Donna Weiss and Jackie DeShannon, was a massive hit for Carnes, spending nine weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming the best-selling single of the year in the United States. The song not only dominated the charts but also won Carnes two Grammy Awards, including Record of the Year and Song of the Year. Carnes’ sultry rendition of the hit was so impactful that it even garnered admiration from Bette Davis herself, who praised Carnes for making her “a part of modern times.”
The success of “Bette Davis Eyes” propelled Carnes into global stardom. Her unique voice, combined with her storytelling abilities as a songwriter, resonated with audiences worldwide. Despite the pressures and expectations that came with such sudden fame, Carnes managed to maintain her creative integrity throughout her career, exploring various music styles and consistently delivering compelling performances.
In addition to her illustrious solo career, Carnes is also recognized for her collaborations with other artists, including Kenny Rogers and Barbra Streisand. Today, despite having stepped back from the limelight, Carnes remains an influential figure in the music industry. Her legacy is a testament to the enduring power of a great song and a distinctive voice. Indeed, Kim Carnes’ journey from “Bette Davis Eyes” to global stardom is a remarkable story of talent, perseverance, and artistic authenticity.
