Bootleg Betty
Bette Midler – Under The Boardwalk (SKDJ Workout Remix Edit)
By Mister D
July 21, 2025
Bette Midler’s version of “Under the Boardwalk” is a standout track from the 1988 film Beaches, where she starred as Cecilia “CC” Bloom. The song, originally a 1964 hit by The Drifters, was reimagined for the movie’s soundtrack, showcasing Midler’s powerful vocals and emotional delivery. Her rendition is a soulful, pop-infused cover with a lush arrangement, emphasizing her ability to blend humor and heart, which aligns with her character’s arc in the film. The song plays during a pivotal moment, enhancing the story’s nostalgic and bittersweet tone about lifelong friendship.
Details and Trivia:
Soundtrack Success: Midler’s Beaches soundtrack, released in 1988, achieved commercial success, reaching #21 on the Billboard 200. “Under the Boardwalk” was one of the key tracks, alongside the iconic “Wind Beneath My Wings,” which won a Grammy for Record of the Year.
Production: The track was produced by Arif Mardin, a legendary producer renowned for his collaborations with artists such as Aretha Franklin. Mardin’s arrangement gave the song a polished, contemporary feel while preserving its doo-wop roots.
Chart Performance: While “Wind Beneath My Wings” was the breakout single, “Under the Boardwalk” gained popularity through the film’s cultural impact and Midler’s live performances.
Film Context: In Beaches, the song underscores CC’s journey as a performer, reflecting her vibrant personality and the 1960s beach culture vibe. It’s performed during a montage, tying into the film’s themes of nostalgia and friendship.
Midler’s Connection: Midler, known for her versatile career, had a deep affinity for reviving older songs. Her take on “Under the Boardwalk” pays homage to the original while adding her theatrical flair, a hallmark of her work in the 1980s.
Cultural Impact: The Beaches soundtrack became a touchstone for fans, with “Under the Boardwalk” often cited in reviews for its infectious energy. It’s a fan favorite at Midler’s concerts, where she often infuses it with her signature campy charm.
Trivia Note: Midler reportedly insisted on including classic songs like “Under the Boardwalk” to reflect the era and CC’s musical influences, drawing from her own experiences performing in New York’s bathhouses early in her career.
Below is a new, remixed version of the song,
