Bootleg Betty
Video: Bette Midler Sings “Superstar” On Bacharach Special 1973
By Mister D
July 24, 2025
Bette Midler performed “Superstar” on Burt Bacharach: Opus No. 3, a TV special that aired on February 28, 1973. This performance showcased her early career vocal prowess and emotional delivery, capturing the song’s poignant narrative about a woman longing for a rock star. Written by Leon Russell and Bonnie Bramlett, “Superstar” was initially recorded by Delaney & Bonnie in 1969 as “Groupie (Superstar)” and later popularized by The Carpenters. Midler’s rendition, featured on her 1972 debut album The Divine Miss M, emphasized her ability to convey raw emotion, a hallmark of her performances at the time. Her version, performed live on the special, is noted for its simplicity and stark arrangement, highlighting her interpretive skills. Fans and critics have praised it as one of the most emotionally resonant versions, with some calling it superior to later recordings due to its raw intensity and connection to the song’s themes. The performance is available on YouTube in high-quality audio, often cited as a standout moment from the special.
