Bootleg Betty
Video – Bette Midler – When A Man Loves A Woman – The Rose
By Mister D
March 6, 2026
Bette Midler’s performance of “When a Man Loves a Woman” is one of the standout moments from her 1979 film The Rose, where she plays a self-destructive rock star loosely inspired by figures like Janis Joplin. The song is a cover of the classic 1966 hit originally by Percy Sledge (written by Calvin Lewis and Andrew Wright).In the movie, it’s performed live during the character’s concert scenes, showcasing Midler’s raw vocal power and emotional intensity. The soundtrack version clocks in at around 5 minutes (4:59-5:20, depending on the listing) and is a bluesy, soulful rendition that fits the film’s rock ‘n’ roll vibe.
Key Info and Trivia:
- It appears on The Rose (The Original Soundtrack Recording), released in 1979, which features mostly live recordings from the film’s concert sequences. The tracklist includes it alongside other performances such as “Stay with Me,” “Sold My Soul to Rock ‘n’ Roll,” and the title track, “The Rose.”
- As a single, Midler’s version was released (often backed with “The Rose” on the B-side) and became a moderate hit, peaking at #35 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1980—helping introduce the song to new audiences beyond Percy Sledge’s original.
- Midler selected this song (along with “Stay with Me”) for the film because she personally identified strongly with it, calling it one of the numbers she always connected with emotionally.
- The movie’s performance is often described as a “powerhouse”—intense, gritty, and full of passion, reflecting the character’s turbulent life and relationships (her love interest is a limo driver named Houston, and the film explores themes of addiction, fame, and heartbreak).
- Midler has performed it live in concerts over the years, including during her Kiss My Brass tour (e.g., versions from 2003-2004 in places like Madison Square Garden and Columbus are fan favorites for their emotional delivery).
It’s a testament to Midler’s versatility — blending soul, rock, and drama — and remains one of her most memorable film moments. If you’re a fan, the film scene or the soundtrack cut really captures her at her most raw and compelling!
