The Musical Hype Bette Midler, Chapel of Love | COVERS By Brent Faulkner August 02, 2023
Mister D: When I saw ‘Clams On The Half Shell Revue’, she ended the show with this number. I can’t remember if it was this song that ended her concerts on the way back, or if this was like an encore. Nevertheless, the audience loved it and sang along as if it was a lovefest.
Ah, it’s time to get cozy and totally cover up! In COVERS, we highlight a musician or band covering songs by another musician (likely a popular musician). COVERS focuses solely on the musician who covers, as opposed to the original/most famous performer. It is open to both established musicians and musicians who may not be as well-known. In the 32nd edition of COVERS (2023), Bette Midler delivers a compelling rendition of “Chapel of Love”, famously performed by The Dixie Cups.
Bette Midler – Chapel Of Love -Live – From The Classic Album, The Divine Miss M
Can The Divine Miss M do no wrong? No, she can’t!? Bette Midler has had a terrific career, PERIOD. She oozes in talent with her acting skills and voice being truly exceptional. In 1972, she released her platinum-certified Tour de Force, which was nominated for the Grammy for Album Of The Year at the 16th Annual Grammy Awards. There’s no shame in losing the award to the one and only Stevie Wonder (Innervisions). Midler would take home a big category, winning Best New Artist over the likes of Barry White and Marie Osmond. But enough background about Bette – we already knew she was fab! On The Divine Miss M, she covers a no. 1 hit famously covered by The Dixie Cups, “Chapel of Love”. With her electrifying pipes and big personality, you can bet your dollar that The Divine Miss M slays!
Bette Midler’s Exuberant Rendition Of The Dixie Cups’ Chapel Of Love
From the jump, Bette is assertive, channeling the 60s soul style with ease. The style of “Chapel of Love” is one that is bubbly, cutesy, and tongue-in-cheek. Midler leans in and is rewarded for doing so, selling the matrimony vibes of the songwriting superbly. “Bells will ring, and the sun is gonna shine,” she sings exuberantly in the second verse, continuing, “Yeah, yeah, yeah, I’m gonna be his, he’s gonna be mine.” Midler’s backing vocals do their job awesomely too, channeling their inner Dixie Cups with those terrific, soulful harmonies. The harmonies pop most during the chorus, the centerpiece of this beloved, vintage soul joint:
Video: Bette Midler – Chapel Of Love -Live – Divine Madness- 1980
Because we’re goin’ to the chapel
And we’re gonna get married
Goin’ to the chapel
And we’re gonna get married
Gee, I really love you
And we’re gonna get married
Goin’ to the chapel of love.
Audio Only: Bette Midler – Chapel Of Love -Live – 1978
