BETTE MIDLER
Album Title: Bette Midler Sings the Rosemary Clooney Songbook
Producer(s): Barry Manilow, Robbie Buchanan
Genre: POP
Label/Catalog Number: Columbia 90350
Release Date: Sept. 30
Source: Billboard Magazine
Originally Reviewed: October 12, 2003
Standards have never been this much fun. “Bette Midler Sings the Rosemary
Clooney Songbook,” a tribute to the late singer’s 1951-1958 heyday, reaches far
beyond the typically maudlin collection of golden oldies, injecting humor and
sarcasm into a crafty selection of chestnuts. The production role of Midler’s
original arranger, Barry Manilow (with Robbie Buchanan) is essential, with his
persuasive versatility showcased on the lush “Tenderly,” the bare-bones album
opener and 1952 No. 1 “You’ll Never Know” and the subtly folky “This Ole
House.” But the best moment comes in Midler and Manilow’s duet “On a Slow Boat
to China” (originally recorded with Clooney and Bing Crosby), which frolics
like the good old daysClooney’s and Midler/Manilow’s. “Songbook” is yet
another milestone album in the career of one of pop culture’s most enduring
entertainers. Clooney must be swinging from on high. CT
