Originally penned in 1974 by Donna Weiss and Jackie DeShannon (yes, the same DeShannon who gave us “What the World Needs Now Is Love”), the song first appeared on DeShannon’s album New Arrangement (August 1975). Her version was soft, piano-driven, with a jazzy lounge vibe—a far cry from the synth-drenched hit it would later become.
It took Kim Carnes, producer Val Garay, and a complete sonic makeover to transform “Bette Davis Eyes” into a modern classic. Their 1981 rendition was bold, moody, and dripping with new wave glamour. With its chugging drum machine, icy synths, and Carnes' smoky vocals, the track felt like a musical wink—dangerous, stylish, and just a little mysterious. The updated version rocketed to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, where it stayed for nine non-consecutive weeks, ultimately becoming the biggest hit of that year.
Lyrically, the song paints a femme fatale in high heels—part seductress, part myth, with charm that could freeze you mid-step. Bette Davis, the actress herself, was deeply flattered. At the time in her 70s, she wrote letters to both Carnes and the songwriters to thank them for making her seem timeless and glamorous to a new generation.
“Bette Davis Eyes” won Grammy Awards for both Record of the Year and Song of the Year in 1982, cementing its place in pop history. Since then, it’s been covered, sampled, and celebrated by artists across genres, and its iconic synth hook has become shorthand for early '80s cool.
Now, in 2025, the song is experiencing a bold revival thanks to a brand-new cover released today by pop icon JoJo Siwa. Reimagined with her signature style and fearless creativity, JoJo’s take adds a modern, theatrical twist—full of high-gloss production, dramatic flair, and unapologetic confidence. The cover has quickly ignited buzz online, introducing the classic to a fresh generation and proving once again that the magic of “Bette Davis Eyes” is eternal.
More than four decades later, it still has the power to captivate. Much like the woman who inspired it, the song refuses to fade quietly into the background. It stares you down, unblinking, daring you to look away. And just like that—you’re hooked.
Got a favorite version?
Jackie DeShannon 1975
Kim Carnes 1981
JoJo Siwa 2025
