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Video: Bette Midler Sings Kid Rock’s Bawitdaba
By Play TV
April 2, 2025
Bette Midler performed a humorous rendition of “Bawitdaba,” originally by Kid Rock, in an episode of her short-lived 2000 sitcom, Bette. The show, which aired on CBS, featured Midler playing a fictionalized version of herself—a legendary entertainer navigating life in the spotlight. In the pilot episode, titled “Pilot,” which premiered on October 11, 2000, Bette’s character is feeling old and out of touch. To shake things up and reclaim her youthful energy, she decides to sing “Bawitdaba,” a high-energy nu-metal/rap-rock song from Kid Rock’s 1998 album Devil Without a Cause. The performance was played for laughs, showcasing Midler’s comedic flair and her willingness to step outside her usual musical comfort zone of ballads and show tunes.
The choice of “Bawitdaba” was a stark contrast to Midler’s typical repertoire, which made it a memorable moment in the series. In the episode, her character’s attempt to connect with a younger, edgier vibe ties into the plot where she’s reacting to Danny DeVito’s announcement that he wants her to play his mother in a sitcom—a role she fears signals she’s past her prime. Midler’s version wasn’t a serious cover but rather a satirical take, emphasizing the absurdity of a Broadway and pop icon tackling a gritty, rebellious anthem known for its aggressive lyrics and mosh-pit energy.
This moment has since been preserved in clips online, with fans uploading it to platforms like YouTube, where it’s often celebrated for its campy charm. While it didn’t lead to a full studio recording or become a staple in Midler’s live performances, it remains a quirky footnote in her career, blending her theatrical persona with an unexpected nod to late ’90s rock culture.
