A Grammy-winning singer-songwriter behind the iconic hit "Bette Davis Eyes," known for her distinctive, raspy vocals and eclectic style. She's a trailblazing female artist in the music industry.
Kim Carnes, born on July 20, 1945, is an American singer-songwriter known for her distinctive, raspy vocals and chart-topping hits that have become synonymous with 80s pop culture. With a career spanning over five decades, Carnes has left an indelible mark on the music industry, earning numerous accolades and widespread recognition for her contributions to songwriting and performing.
Born and raised in Los Angeles, Carnes began her music career in the 1960s, writing songs for other artists and performing in local clubs. She worked as a session background singer with the famed Waters Sisters, featured in the documentary 20 Feet from Stardom. Her talent and dedication eventually led to her signing with Jimmy Bowen, which paved the way for her debut album Rest on Me in 1971.
Carnes' self-titled second album, released in 1975, primarily consisted of self-penned songs, including her first charting single "You're a Part of Me," which reached No. 35 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart. The following year, she released Sailin', featuring "Love Comes from Unexpected Places," which won the American Song Festival and the award for Best Composition at the Tokyo Song Festival in 1976.
In 1980, Carnes was commissioned by Kenny Rogers to co-write songs for his concept album Gideon. Their duet "Don't Fall in Love with a Dreamer" hit No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100, earning the duo a Grammy Award nomination. Later that year, her cover of Smokey Robinson's "More Love," from her fifth album Romance Dance, reached No. 10 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Carnes' breakthrough came in 1981 with the release of Mistaken Identity, featuring the worldwide hit "Bette Davis Eyes." The song spent nine weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, went gold, and won the Grammy Award for Record of the Year and Song of the Year. Mistaken Identity reached No. 1 on the Billboard 200, was certified platinum, and was nominated for the Grammy Award for Album of the Year.
Carnes' music often explores themes of love, relationships, and self-empowerment. Her songs frequently feature strong, independent female characters, reflecting her own convictions about women's rights and autonomy. Through her music, Carnes has inspired generations of women to take control of their lives and challenge societal expectations.
Carnes has won two Grammy Awards for Record of the Year and Song of the Year for "Bette Davis Eyes." She has also been nominated for several other Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year and Best Female Pop Vocal Performance.
Carnes has been married to musician and songwriter Dave Ellingson since 1978. The couple has two sons, Ry and Collin. Carnes has been open about her struggles with vocal cord nodules, which led to a surgery in 2013 to remove a node.
Kim Carnes' music has had a lasting impact on modern society, inspiring countless artists and shaping the sound of 80s pop culture. Her iconic hit "Bette Davis Eyes" has been covered and sampled numerous times, becoming a cultural touchstone. Carnes' music continues to be celebrated for its timelessness, soulfulness, and empowering message.
Kim Carnes' legacy extends beyond her chart-topping hits and accolades. She has paved the way for future generations of female singer-songwriters, demonstrating the importance of creative control, autonomy, and perseverance in the music industry. Carnes' music remains a testament to her talent, dedication, and unwavering passion for her craft.
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