Kim Carnes, the original voice behind the Grammy-winning hit Bette Davis Eyes, appeared to express disapproval of JoJo Siwa’s recent cover of the song in a now-deleted TikTok post.
Carnes shared a throwback clip of her music video for the 1981 classic, performing in a black pantsuit and sunglasses.
The post was accompanied by a caption that read, “There is a difference between singing a song.... And embodying it.... I've always believed authenticity is what makes music timeless.” She added, “I'm forever grateful to be the voice behind this one..... Bette Davis Eyes.”
Though Carnes did not name JoJo Siwa directly, her comments were posted just two days after JoJo’s teaser of the cover began circulating online.
The 22-year-old former Dance Moms star recreated the iconic look of Bette Davis, singing, “She knows just what it takes to make a pro blush... she’s got Bette Davis eyes.”
JoJo hinted that more could be coming, writing, “I’m undecided if I should release it on Spotify or not…. Would you want me to?!!!” She previously performed the track live and altered the lyrics to reference her boyfriend, singing “Chris Hughes’ eyes.”
The viral clip triggered mixed reactions and parodies, sparking conversations around reinterpretation and vocal authenticity.
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