Kim Carnes's iconic song 'Bette Davis Eyes' has been reinterpreted by modern queer pop stars JoJo Siwa and Ethel Cain. The song's narrative, delivered in a flirty third-person perspective, serves as a cautionary tale about a captivating yet dangerous woman. Siwa adds a personal touch by altering the lyrics to reference her boyfriend, showcasing the adaptability of the song. In contrast, Cain offers a contemporary twist, reflecting current queer identity trends in pop music. This dual reinterpretation reveals a blend of nostalgia and modernity within the song's legacy.
"She'll tease you, she'll unease you / All the better just to please you," Carnes sings in a raspy, flirty tone, emphasizing the mysterious allure of the song’s subject.
Right now, both queer identity and intense nostalgia rank among the foremost trends in pop music, making Carnes's hit a natural choice for reinterpretation.
JoJo Siwa changed a line of the chorus to reference her boyfriend, blending personal narrative with a classic hit, showcasing the song's adaptability.
While Siwa makes the song feel retrograde, Ethel Cain is transforming it for modern audiences, highlighting the evolving nature of pop reinterpretations.
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