SHOF: “This thing has been going on for 43 years and this is the first time I’ve been invited?”

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BETTE MIDLER RECOGNIZED WITH LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
Posted Jun 16 2012 by Jeanne Dupuis

After more than four decades in the business, Midler has been inducted to the Songwriters Hall of Fame.

Bette Midler is one of those artists that always seems to have been around in some way. At times, like the late 80s and early 90s, she was almost inescapable with successful movies like Beaches and For the Boys and her hugely popular songs “From a Distance” and “Wind Beneath My Wings.” Of course, many remember her best for her incredible performance in The Rose years earlier.

Today, she continues to enjoy her success, even if it isn’t as ostentatious as it has been in the past. There is no other artist like her, she is unique, and for that reason she deserves to be recognized for her contribution to the industry.

It is entirely fitting that she was finally presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Songwriters Hall of Fame induction ceremony earlier this week. She was presented with the award by the legendary Stevie Nicks.

During her acceptance speech, Midler joked: “This thing has been going on for 43 years and this is the first time I’ve been invited? I’m kind of annoyed” but then added: “First I was a tramp, then a visionary. Then I was an icon, then an institution. This is an award for tenacity.. I would also like to thank people who love me unconditionally even when I was at my worst. Which is, unfortunately, a lot.”

Congratulations, Bette. You’ve earned it.