Kim Carnes

Kim Carnes’ iconic 1981 single ‘Bette Davis Eyes’ spent nine weeks at number one on the U.S. singles charts, becoming the best-selling single of 1981 and earning her Grammy Awards for Song of the Year and Record of the Year. The accompanying album, Mistaken Identity, also reached the number one spot on the Billboard 200 and was certified Platinum, showcasing her distinctive raspy voice that became a signature. This breakthrough followed a career that began in the 1960s, writing songs for other artists, performing in local clubs, and working as a session vocalist, including a stint with the folk group The New Christy Minstrels in 1966.

That same year, her track ‘Crazy in the Night’ became a top 20 hit. Carnes also lent her distinctive vocals to the historic USA for Africa fundraising single ‘We Are the World’ in 1985, contributing to its global impact. Her diverse musical contributions extended significantly to film soundtracks, including for acclaimed productions such as Vanishing Point, Flashdance, Spaceballs, and Heartbreak Hotel. Kim Carnes later transitioned her focus to songwriting, contributing significantly to the country music landscape.

In 1994, she notably co-wrote ‘The Heart Won’t Lie,’ which became a US Country No. 1 hit for celebrated artists Reba McEntire and Vince Gill. Her extensive songwriting credits further include penning tracks for prominent country artists such as Tanya Tucker, Sawyer Brown, Pam Tillis, Reba McEntire, and Deanna Carter, demonstrating her enduring influence across genres. She continued to release her own material, with her most recent studio album, Chasin’ Wild Trains, made available in 2004.