What makes Broken Blossom by Bette Midler notable?

The album features standout tracks that highlight Midler's ability to convey deep emotion, contributing to her continued commercial success during the late '70s. Critics noted its sophisticated sound, which helped solidify her place in music history and earned significant airplay on adult contemporary radio. Released in late 1977, Broken Blossom was Bette Midler's fifth studio album and followed her breakthrough with The Rose. At this point, Midler had firmly established herself as a versatile artist, transitioning from her theatrical roots to becoming a mainstream pop icon.

Who is Broken Blossom for?

Broken Blossom works well if you're into steady mid-tempo reflective moments, lush vocals for cozy evenings and emotive storytelling through song.

How many songs are on Broken Blossom?

Broken Blossom has 11 tracks, running approximately 39 minutes.

Broken Blossom

Bette Midler · 1977

39 min · 11 tracks · jazz

A lush blend of jazz-inflected pop and poignant balladry, showcasing Midler's expressive vocals against rich orchestral arrangements.

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Top tracks — play these first

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You Don't Know Me — This track showcases Midler's emotive delivery and ability to interpret classic songs, infusing them with her unique style while retaining their original poignancy.
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Say Goodbye to Hollywood — An introspective take on leaving behind past relationships, this song features a haunting arrangement that complements Midler's reflective vocal performance.
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La Vie En Rose — Midler’s rendition brings a fresh yet respectful approach to this French classic, highlighting her versatility and charm as an interpreter of various musical genres.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong vocal performances against rich arrangements, balancing emotional depth with musical sophistication.

What we noticed

The first five tracks feature lush orchestral arrangements that support Midler's vocals, while the last three tracks shift to a more stripped-down instrumentation.
Several tracks incorporate jazz elements, with syncopated rhythms and improvisational sections that highlight the musicianship of the accompanying band.
Midler alternates between ballads and more upbeat numbers, creating a dynamic flow that keeps the listener engaged throughout.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 4/10

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

steady mid-tempo reflective moments
lush vocals for cozy evenings
emotive storytelling through song
heartfelt themes of love and

Maybe skip if you

prefer fast-paced music
seek high-energy party tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Critical Peak — Showcases Midler's vocal prowess and emotional depth, marking a high point in her early career.
Career context: Released in late 1977, Broken Blossom was Bette Midler's fifth studio album and followed her breakthrough with The Rose. At this point, Midler had firmly established herself as a versatile artist, transitioning from her theatrical roots to becoming a mainstream pop icon.
Stylistic neighbors: Diana Ross· Cher· Liza Minnelli