The “Bette Davis Eyes” Renaissance: How Pop Music is Rewriting Queer Nostalgia and Shaping Future Identities
From the retro-tinged reinventions of JoJo Siwa to the ethereal artistry of Ethel Cain, a classic song about a woman with alluring traits is experiencing a fascinating resurgence. But this isn’t just a nostalgic trip; it’s a lens through which we can examine how pop culture is grappling with evolving understandings of identity, queerness, and the power of the past. The original song, “Bette Davis Eyes,” which was a hit for Kim Carnes, has provided a platform for artists to explore these complex themes.
The Echoes of the Past: “Bette Davis Eyes” as a Queer Anthem
The enduring appeal of “Bette Davis Eyes” lies in its ambiguous storytelling. The song, which is technically a cover, speaks of a captivating woman who exudes an irresistible allure. The original’s subtle queerness has resonated with LGBTQ+ audiences for decades, making it ripe for reinterpretation in a world where queer identity is increasingly visible and celebrated. Today, the song’s themes of longing, desire, and the blurring of gender lines have become even more relevant.
“Bette Davis Eyes” is not just a catchy tune; it’s a queer classic that challenges the boundaries of traditional gender norms.
Ethel Cain’s Futuristic Nostalgia: Reimagining the Narrative
Ethel Cain’s take on “Bette Davis Eyes,” or at least the inspirations it pulls from, represents the potential for this song to evolve. While not a direct cover, her new song, “Fuck Me Eyes” shares similar themes and offers a deeper dive into the song’s original undercurrents. Cain’s song is a melancholic exploration of desire, envy, and self-loathing. In the original, the singer’s perspective, as well as the song’s, felt like a warning. With Cain’s song, that warning has been shattered and examined further, making it a great update to the source material. Cain has managed to modernize the emotional core of the song, and is indicative of an effort to ensure that queer artists’ work is able to move forward.
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Image of Ethel Cain – Alt Text: Ethel Cain performing on stage
JoJo Siwa’s Retrograde Move: Can Nostalgia Be Forced?
JoJo Siwa’s cover, on the other hand, has become a flashpoint for debate. By reinterpreting the song within a “trad wife” aesthetic and changing the lyrics to reference her boyfriend, Siwa’s version inadvertently highlights the pressures and complexities of navigating identity in the public eye. While her cover has sparked controversy, it also raises questions about the commodification of queerness and the shifting landscape of self-expression.
The core issue lies in Siwa’s presentation: her embrace of heteronormative aesthetics while singing about a woman. This could be interpreted as a misstep, or perhaps a strategic repositioning.
The Future of Queer Pop: Trends and Takeaways
The contrasting interpretations of “Bette Davis Eyes” offer a glimpse into the future of queer pop. Here’s what we can expect:
- Nostalgia as a Resource: Expect to see more artists mining the past for inspiration, reinterpreting classic songs and themes to create new narratives relevant to contemporary audiences. This “retro-futurism” allows artists to connect with a broader audience while also pushing creative boundaries.
- Blurred Lines: Gender and sexual fluidity will continue to shape artistic expression. Songs like “Bette Davis Eyes,” will become ever more adaptable and relatable for a range of sexual orientations.
- Authenticity vs. Presentation: The debate over authenticity and performativity will continue. Artists will need to navigate the complexities of self-expression in the age of social media, where perception is often paramount.
- Actionable Insights: For artists, the key is to stay true to their artistic vision while engaging with broader societal conversations. Fans should continue to support work that challenges and inspires, even if it provokes debate.
The different iterations of “Bette Davis Eyes” are an interesting illustration of where pop music is going, as well as the complexities that will continue to arise within it.
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What are your predictions for the future of queer pop and the evolution of songs like “Bette Davis Eyes”? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
