Bette Midler
Bette Midler · 1973
34 min · 10 tracks · jazz
A vibrant blend of pop, jazz, and theatricality, showcasing Midler's powerful vocals and eclectic musical influences.
Top tracks — play these first
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I Shall Be Released — This poignant cover of Bob Dylan's classic showcases Midler's emotional depth and vocal prowess, transforming the song into a heartfelt anthem of freedom.
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Higher & Higher (Your Love Keeps Lifting Me) — Midler’s rendition of this Motown hit captures her exuberant energy, turning it into an uplifting celebration that resonates with her live performance style.
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Surabaya Johnny — Demonstrating her theatrical flair, this track allows Midler to explore deeper emotions, highlighting her ability to convey complex narratives through song.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album showcases Midler's vocal range and eclectic influences but lacks a strong cohesive narrative throughout.
What we noticed
- The album opens with a slow ballad, 'Skylark', and gradually introduces more upbeat tracks, peaking with the energetic medley in track 8.
- Midler's vocal delivery varies significantly across tracks, from theatrical interpretations to more straightforward pop performances.
- Several tracks feature lush orchestral arrangements that complement her voice, while others rely on simpler instrumental backing.
- Composition 25% of the score
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6/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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7/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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5/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- vibrant theatrical vocal performances
- steady flow with emotional peaks
- short tracks for quick enjoyment
- playful energy for social gatherings
- nostalgic reflections on love
Maybe skip if you
- prefer longer, immersive experiences
- seek intense, high-energy tracks
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Breakthrough — This debut album established Midler's reputation in the music scene.
- Themes
- New York cabaret scene· theatrical storytelling· Motown revival energy
- Career context
- Released on November 16, 1973, this debut album marked Bette Midler's entry into the music scene after establishing herself as a performer in New York City. Following her breakout success in cabaret and film, this album solidified her transition to a recording artist, featuring a mix of covers and original material that highlighted her versatility.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Diana Ross· Cher· Liza Minnelli
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Skylark 3:02
- 2 Drinking Again 2:48
- 3 Breaking Up Somebody’s Home 3:49
- 4 Surabaya Johnny 4:54
- 5 I Shall Be Released 4:56
- 6 Optimistic Voices / Lullaby of Broadway 2:26
- 7 In the Mood 2:39
- 8 Uptown / Don’t Say Nothin’ Bad (About My Baby) / Da Doo Run Run 3:23
- 9 Twisted 2:25
- 10 Higher & Higher (Your Love Keeps Lifting Me) 4:04
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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