Kim Carnes recently shared her thoughts on Jojo Siwa’s cover of her iconic hit song, “Bette Davis Eyes.” In an exclusive statement to TMZ, Kim expressed her initial reaction to seeing her original performance juxtaposed with Jojo’s rendition, stating that it felt “a bit too close” for comfort.
The Grammy-winning artist emphasized the importance of artists supporting each other in the music industry, condemning the online hate and personal attacks that have surfaced following the release of the cover. Kim underscored the need for respectful dialogue and understanding among musicians, highlighting the deeply personal connection artists have to their voices and creative expression.
Reflecting on the history of “Bette Davis Eyes,” Kim acknowledged the numerous covers of the song by artists like Kylie Minogue, Taylor Swift, and Gwyneth Paltrow. She reminisced about the unique process of recording her version in 1980, which involved a live performance with no overdubs or manipulation, resulting in what she described as “magic.”
Despite the similarities between Jojo’s cover and her original rendition, Kim expressed pride in the enduring popularity of her version, which continues to garner over 130 million streams annually. She teased an upcoming EP of remixes featuring collaborations with renowned artists from the dance world, hinting at fresh interpretations of her classic hit.
In her concluding remarks, Kim reiterated her commitment to preserving and celebrating the legacy of “Bette Davis Eyes,” emphasizing her desire to protect the integrity of the recording. The artist previously shared a candid opinion on the cover, but her latest statement delves deeper into her nuanced perspective on the musical homage.
As Kim Carnes navigates the complexities of artistic interpretation and homage, her reflections offer a thoughtful insight into the intersection of creativity, legacy, and collaboration in the ever-evolving landscape of music.
