The album reunites Bette Midler with her original piano accompanist and musical director, Barry Manilow, who produced her first two breakthrough albums, Divine Ms. M (1972) and Bette Midler (1973). Produced by Barry Manilow and Robbie Buchanan, Bette Midler Sings The Rosemary Clooney Songbook pays tribute to one of America's great women of traditional pop and vocal jazz, recasting the brilliance of her material and artistry in shimmering new hues for aficionados of Ms. Clooney, who passed away on June 29, 2002, as well as for a new generation of music fans.
"I have loved Rosemary Clooney for as long as I can remember," wrote Bette Midler in her notes for the album. "She possessed one of the great American voices of the last century, full of warmth, sincerity and truth. Her intonation was impeccable, she never sang a false note...she radiated intelligence and good humor, and boy, could she swing!"
Ms. Midler's enthusiasm is echoed by Barry Manilow: "When I was thinking about who could pay tribute to -- and at the same time, reinvent these splendid songs, which Rosemary [Clooney] first introduced to the world -- Bette was my first...and only choice! We had a ball, just like the old days! Better than the old days! I'm so thankful that she agreed to do it."
One of the world's best-loved and most versatile entertainers, Bette Midler has garnered accolades in all quarters of show business. She's earned four Grammy Awards including Song of the Year (1989: "Wind Beneath My Wings", 1990: "From A Distance") and Record of the Year (1989: "Wind Beneath My Wings"); two Academy Award nominations, three Emmy Awards, one Tony Award, three Golden Globe Awards, and nine American Comedy Awards.
Her SRO tours have placed historically in the Top 5 grossing concerts in a calendar year. Ms. Midler has sold more than 14 million albums over the course of her career and holds 24 gold, platinum and multi-platinum certifications from the RIAA for her albums and singles.
