What makes For the Boys by Bette Midler notable?

For the Boys was notable for its commercial success, peaking at number 10 on the Billboard 200 chart and earning Midler a Grammy nomination for Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album. The album's standout track, 'Baby It’s Cold Outside,' became a holiday classic, revitalizing interest in the standard while showcasing Midler's ability to reinterpret timeless songs. Released in 1991, For the Boys marked Bette Midler's return to the music scene after her successful ventures in film, including her role in Beaches. This album came shortly after her Grammy Award-winning performance on the soundtrack of the film, reinforcing her status as a versatile entertainer during a period of significant career resurgence.

Who is For the Boys for?

For the Boys works well if you're into playful sing-along moments, steady mid-tempo enjoyment and theatrical flair in vocals.

How many songs are on For the Boys?

For the Boys has 13 tracks, running approximately 37 minutes.

For the Boys

Bette Midler · 1991

37 min · 13 tracks · jazz

A vibrant blend of jazz and pop, showcasing theatrical flair through nostalgic arrangements and Bette Midler's powerful vocals.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Baby It’s Cold Outside — This duet presents an engaging interplay between Midler and fellow artist James Caan, bringing fresh charm to a well-loved holiday classic. Its playful dynamics highlight Midler's comedic timing and vocal prowess.
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For All We Know — The poignant delivery showcases Midler's emotive range, transforming this ballad into a heartfelt exploration of love and longing. It stands out for its lush arrangement and intimate feel.
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Come Rain or Come Shine — Midler's passionate rendition elevates this standard, combining vulnerability with strength that resonates deeply. The arrangement beautifully complements her voice, making it a highlight of emotional depth.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

46 /100

Foothills

Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

Midler's vocal strength and the blend of jazz standards create a solid but conventional album experience.

What we noticed

Several tracks incorporate lush orchestral arrangements, creating a theatrical atmosphere that complements the vocal performances.
The pacing varies, with some tracks maintaining a brisk tempo while others slow down for emotional ballads, particularly in the second half.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 5/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

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

playful sing-along moments
steady mid-tempo enjoyment
theatrical flair in vocals
short tracks for quick listening

Maybe skip if you

seeking deep introspective themes
dislike for playful theatrics

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Marked Midler's return to music after film success, gaining commercial recognition.
Themes: nostalgic arrangements· theatrical flair· holiday charm
Moods: Uplifting· Energetic
Career context: Released in 1991, For the Boys marked Bette Midler's return to the music scene after her successful ventures in film, including her role in Beaches. This album came shortly after her Grammy Award-winning performance on the soundtrack of the film, reinforcing her status as a versatile entertainer during a period of significant career resurgence.
Stylistic neighbors: Diana Ross· Cher· Liza Minnelli