Video: Bette Midler & Barry Manilow – On A Slow Boat To China

---

Bootleg Betty
Video: Bette Midler & Barry Manilow – On A Slow Boat To China
By Mister D
Sept 28, 2025

---

---

The duet “On a Slow Boat to China” by Bette Midler and Barry Manilow is a playful, jazzy rendition of a classic 1948 song written by Frank Loesser. It was recorded for Midler’s 2003 album Bette Midler Sings The Rosemary Clooney Songbook, showcasing their chemistry as longtime collaborators (Manilow was her musical director and arranger early in her career). The song’s a flirty, old-school fantasy about whisking a lover away on a leisurely boat ride to China, with lyrics like, “I’d love to get you on a slow boat to China, all to myself alone.”

• Style & Vibe: The track blends Midler’s brassy, theatrical delivery with Manilow’s smooth, pop-lounge croon, backed by a jazzy big-band arrangement. It’s cheeky, romantic, and dripping with retro charm, evoking the glamour of 1940s Hollywood.
• Context: The song was a staple in Midler’s early cabaret-style performances, reflecting her love for reviving vintage standards. Manilow’s production gives it a polished ’70s pop sheen while keeping the nostalgic swing.
• Cultural Impact: Though not a chart-topper like their solo hits, it’s a fan favorite from the album. In 2025, it’s seen a resurgence in China via Douyin (Chinese TikTok), with over 50 million views in September for #SlowBoatToChina challenges, tied to travel vlogs and KTV covers. A viral Bilibili clip of a Beijing jazz singer covering it (mimicking Midler’s rasp) hit 2M+ shares recently.
• Lyrics Sample: “Out on the briny, with the moon big and shiny / Melting your heart of stone / I’d love to get you on a slow boat to China / All to myself alone.” The duet leans into the song’s coy innuendo, with Bette and Barry trading verses and harmonizing on the dreamy hook.

Why It Resonates: The song’s escapist fantasy—sailing away with a lover—clicks with modern audiences craving slow, romantic vibes amid fast-paced life. In China, it’s caught on as a quirky soundtrack for “slow travel” content, especially among Gen Z on Douyin, who pair it with aesthetic river cruise videos. Its retro appeal also fits the global resurgence of vintage pop standards in 2025.

---

---