Bootleg Betty Happy 21st Anniversary To Bette Midler’s Peggy Lee Songbook Album By Mister D Oct 25, 2005
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Overview Released on October 25, 2005, Bette Midler Sings the Peggy Lee Songbook is a tribute album produced by Barry Manilow, following her 2003 Rosemary Clooney Songbook
. It features Midler’s interpretations of ten classic Peggy Lee standards, including “Fever,” “Big Spender,” “I’m a Woman,” and “The Folks Who Live on the Hill”
. The album debuted at #10 on the Billboard 200, selling 55,000 copies in its first week and 263,000 by October 2006
. It was Midler’s first DualDisc release, with the DVD side offering short clips and behind?the?scenes footage
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Critical reception AllMusic called it “a talented, affectionate record… a solid tribute”
. The New York Times praised her ability to turn Lee’s melancholic torch songs into uplifting celebrations
. Critics noted her “catlike glee” on choruses and Manilow’s arrangements that stayed true to the originals .
Awards and nominations While the Peggy Lee album itself did not win major awards, Midler’s career includes 33 wins from 92 nominations across major honors
Trivia and notable facts
“Fever” was the lead single; a remix by L.E.X. hit #4 on the Billboard Dance Club Songs chart in 2006 .
The album was Midler’s highest?charting release of the decade at the time .
It followed her Grammy?nominated Rosemary Clooney Songbook and was part of her “songbook” tribute series .
Midler’s performance of “Is That All There Is?” was praised for improving Lee’s version AllMusic AllMusic .
The project reflects Midler’s long?standing admiration for Peggy Lee, a major influence on her vocal style
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Accolades in context Although the Peggy Lee album itself didn’t win a Grammy, it reinforced Midler’s reputation for blending humor, energy, and vocal skill with respectful homage to classic standards. Her broader career accolades — including Tony, Emmy, and Grammy wins — underscore her versatility and enduring appeal
In short: Bette Midler Sings the Peggy Lee Songbook was a top?10 hit, a well?received tribute, and part of a career marked by multiple major awards, historic honors, and a deep connection to the music of Peggy Lee.
