Bootleg Betty
Video: Bette Midler – Here Comes The Flood – Art Or Bust – 1983
By Mister D
April 14, 2024
In her 1983 “Art or Bust” concert, the incomparable Bette Midler delivered a theatrical rendition of Peter Gabriel’s “Here Comes The Flood.” Let’s dive into the mesmerizing details:
The Setting:
The concert was filmed at the University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, marking the culmination of her cross-country tour, “De Tour.” Bette’s stage presence was electric, drawing the audience into her world of music and emotion.
The Song:
“Here Comes The Flood” is an apocalyptic rock ballad by Peter Gabriel. Its haunting lyrics and evocative melody set the stage for Bette’s performance.
Martha Graham Influence:
Bette, a master of storytelling through movement, channeled the legendary Martha Graham in her interpretation. Like Graham, she used her body as an expressive instrument, infusing each note with raw emotion. During the song, Bette dramatically wound her blouse over her head like a shroud, invoking Graham’s iconic choreography and adding an ethereal layer to the performance.
Whiskey-Voiced Intensity:
Bette’s gravelly voice lent depth to the lyrics, capturing the essence of impending catastrophe.
As she sang, the audience felt the floodwaters rise, drowning in the intensity of her delivery.
Chilling Climax:
The culmination was spine-tingling. Bette’s theatrical flair merged seamlessly with the song’s apocalyptic theme. She transported the crowd to a world where emotions surged like tidal waves, leaving an indelible mark.
Bette Midler’s rendition of “Here Comes The Flood” was more than a performance—it was a visceral experience, a fusion of music, movement, and Martha Graham’s spirit. ???
