About Bette Midler
Bette Midler, often affectionately known as "The Divine Miss M," is an iconic American singer, actress, comedian, and producer whose career has spanned over five decades. Her primary musical style fluidly encompasses pop, rock, show tunes, and traditional standards, characterized by her powerful, expressive vocals, flamboyant stage presence, and a distinctive blend of comedic wit and heartfelt pathos. Midler's multifaceted talent and enduring appeal have cemented her status as a beloved entertainer and a significant cultural icon in music history.
- Bette Midler first rose to prominence in the early 1970s by performing a flamboyant cabaret act at the Continental Baths, a gay bathhouse in New York City, where she developed her signature "Divine Miss M" persona and cultivated a dedicated following. Her musical director and accompanist during this formative period was the then-unknown Barry Manilow.
- Her moving rendition of "Wind Beneath My Wings" from the 1988 film "Beaches" became one of her most recognizable and beloved signature songs, earning her a Grammy Award for Record of the Year in 1990.
- Throughout her illustrious career, Midler has received numerous prestigious accolades, including four Golden Globe Awards, three Grammy Awards, three Primetime Emmy Awards, and two Tony Awards, in addition to a Kennedy Center Honor.
- In 1995, Midler demonstrated her commitment to urban renewal by founding the New York Restoration Project (NYRP), a non-profit organization dedicated to revitalizing parks, community gardens, and open spaces in underserved neighborhoods across New York City.
Bette Midler's sheet music offers a diverse and rewarding selection for musicians, particularly vocalists of intermediate to advanced skill levels, as well as pianists and other instrumentalists. Her repertoire features a compelling mix of powerful ballads, upbeat pop anthems, and theatrical showstoppers, making her music suitable for both personal enjoyment and performance settings. Performing Midler's songs is a deeply satisfying experience, allowing musicians to connect with her strong melodic lines and emotionally resonant lyrics, all while exploring the distinctive artistic flair that has made her an entertainment legend.