JoJo Siwa and Ethel Cain Reimagine 'Bette Davis Eyes': A Queer Anthem for the Summer

11 months agoUS
JoJo Siwa and Ethel Cain Reimagine 'Bette Davis Eyes': A Queer Anthem for the SummerSource: vulture.com
Kim Carnes’s 1981 hit, “Bette Davis Eyes,” has seen a resurgence as a queer anthem this summer, with reinterpretations from JoJo Siwa and Ethel Cain. Both artists bring their unique perspectives to the song, highlighting themes of queer identity and nostalgia.

Key Insights

Two Interpretations:: JoJo Siwa and Ethel Cain have both released versions of “Bette Davis Eyes,” each with a distinct style.

Siwa's Transformation:: JoJo Siwa debuted a new look, including a short curly bob and vintage Hollywood styling, coinciding with her cover release. She also made headlines for her relationship with Chris Hughes, a fellow *Celebrity Big Brother UK* contestant, changing lyrics to reflect her new romance. Why does this matter? Siwa's personal life is now directly impacting her artistic choices, stirring both praise and controversy.

Cain's Fresh Take:: Ethel Cain released “Fuck Me Eyes” as a dreamy pop ballad, capturing the original's unacknowledged queerness with a modern twist. Why does this matter? Cain offers a nuanced exploration of envy and fascination, deepening the song's emotional complexity.

In-Depth Analysis

Kim Carnes's “Bette Davis Eyes” was originally a hit in 1981 and has now found new life as a queer anthem. The song, written from a third-person perspective, describes a captivating and potentially dangerous woman, sparking interpretations of longing and fascination.

JoJo Siwa, known for her vibrant and energetic persona, covered the song while also showcasing a dramatic transformation in her appearance. Her version has stirred debate, particularly due to lyrical changes referencing her relationship with Chris Hughes. This has led to discussions about her evolving identity and how it is reflected in her music. Check out her Instagram for snippets of the song and her new look.

Ethel Cain, on the other hand, offers a more introspective and emotionally complex interpretation. Her song “Fuck Me Eyes” delves into themes of envy and desire, capturing the essence of the original while adding a modern perspective. Cain's version resonates with listeners who appreciate the song's dreamy instrumentation and exploration of unacknowledged queerness. Her upcoming album, *Willoughby Tucker, I’ll Always Love You*, promises to further explore these themes.

FAQs

Q: Why is “Bette Davis Eyes” considered a queer anthem?

The song's themes of fascination and unacknowledged longing resonate with the queer community.

Q: How have JoJo Siwa's personal relationships influenced her music?

Siwa's relationship with Chris Hughes has directly influenced her cover of “Bette Davis Eyes,” sparking discussions about her identity and artistic choices.

Q: What makes Ethel Cain's interpretation unique?

Cain's version delves into themes of envy and desire, adding a modern perspective to the original's unacknowledged queerness.

Key Takeaways

“Bette Davis Eyes” continues to resonate across generations, particularly within the queer community.

JoJo Siwa's transformation and musical choices reflect her evolving personal identity.

Ethel Cain offers a fresh and emotionally complex take on the classic song, exploring themes of envy and desire.

Discussion

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