Video: Bette Midler – Paradise – Divine Madness – 1980
Let’s explore Bette Midler’s rendition of “Paradise” in her highly esteemed concert film “Divine Madness”. This Golden Globe-nominated performance is a dazzling showcase of her musical and comedic talents.
Here are the details:
Song: “Paradise”
Album: “Divine Madness”
Movie: “Divine Madness”
Context:
“Divine Madness” is a concert film released in 1980.
Arrangement by Chas Sanford:
The arrangement for “Paradise” in this concert takes an unexpected turn.
Initially, the song starts out gorgeous, melancholy, and haunting, much like the original version by Harry Nilsson.
However, midway through, Bette Midler switches it up dramatically.
She transforms the song into a frantic, propulsive New Wave arrangement that surprises and energizes the audience.
The quirky arrangement adds a fresh twist to the familiar tune.
Performance:
Bette’s stage presence is electric, and her vocals soar. The Harlettes (her backup singers) join her in a chaotic, joyful celebration, and the audience experiences a beautiful frenzy of sound and movement.
It’s a testament to Bette Midler’s ability to reinvent songs and keep her audience guessing. ???
