(Used) BETTE MIDLER cd collection (Japan press) Bathhouse Betty Greatest Hits Experience The Divine Some People's Life
Few entertainers have combined music, film and theatre as successfully as Bette Midler. Known as “The Divine Miss M,” she can move effortlessly between dramatic ballads, nostalgic standards, comedy and flamboyant show tunes.
Her distinctive voice and theatrical personality gave songs such as “The Rose,” “Wind Beneath My Wings” and “From a Distance” lasting appeal. This collection brings together a late-career studio album, an essential hit compilation and one of her most successful pop releases.
Bathhouse Betty (Japan Press, No OBI)
Released in 1998, Bathhouse Betty reconnects Midler with the bold, humorous spirit of her early performances while retaining the polished ballads that made her a mainstream star.
“I’m Beautiful” is a confident dance-pop anthem, while “My One True Friend” and “Lullaby in Blue” reveal her gift for emotional storytelling. “Ukulele Lady,” “Song of Bernadette” and “I Sold My Heart to the Junkman” add cabaret, folk and nostalgic-pop colours.
The Japanese edition includes the bonus track “Heaven,” written by Julie Gold. A varied and entertaining album that captures both the playful and reflective sides of Bette Midler.
Experience the Divine: Greatest Hits (Japan Press, No OBI)
This collection offers an excellent overview of Midler’s Atlantic Records years and gathers many of the performances that established her reputation.
The selection includes “The Rose,” “Wind Beneath My Wings,” “From a Distance,” “Do You Want to Dance?,” “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy,” “Friends” and “In My Life.” It also features her rendition of “One for My Baby (And One More for the Road),” famously performed for Johnny Carson.
The natural starting point for new listeners and a convenient collection of her best-known songs.
Some People’s Lives (Japan Press with OBI)
Released in 1990, Some People’s Lives followed the enormous success of the Beaches soundtrack. Its production is smooth and sophisticated, placing Midler’s expressive voice at the centre of carefully arranged pop ballads.
“From a Distance” became the album’s defining hit, supported by “Night and Day,” “The Gift of Love,” “Moonlight Dancing” and the title track. Her interpretation of the Cole Porter standard “Miss Otis Regrets” also reflects the theatrical influence that runs throughout her career.
Recommended for listeners who enjoy polished adult contemporary pop and emotionally direct vocal performances.