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1989 (Taylor’s Version) coming out October 27 2023

August 16, 2023

In a thrilling announcement that has set fans' hearts beating with excitement, global superstar Taylor Swift has officially revealed that her re-recorded album "1989"...

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Tay-K: From a Sudden Rise to a Sudden Downfall

August 15, 2023

Tay-K, born Taymor McIntyre, was one such artist whose meteoric ascent was shadowed by a series of criminal acts that ultimately led to his incarceration. His story reflects the complexities...

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Deciphering "Bad idea, right?" by Olivia Rodrigo

August 15, 2023

By now we all know Olivia Rodrigo, the teenage sensation who has taken the music industry by storm. She has a gift for capturing the deep emotions of youth in her songs. In her hit track "Good 4 u,"..

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Laufey's "From the Start": A TikTok-Propelled Success Story

August 15, 2023

In the rapidly evolving landscape of the music industry, the power of social media platforms in catapulting songs to unprecedented fame is undeniable. Laufey's hit single "From the Start"

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ITZY’s ‘Kill My Doubt’ Sweetens the Stage

August 15, 2023

Superstar K-pop group ITZY is a 5-member group consisting of Yeji, Lia, Ryujin, Chaeryoung and Yuna who have released their long-awaited mini album ‘Kill My Doubt’. ITZY has come across much success..

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Somi Returns with a Catchy ‘Game Plan’

August 10, 2023

Somi is one of Korea’s most successful solo artists in the industry who placed first after competing in a survival show ‘Produce 101’ and debuting with K-pop group ‘I.O.I’...

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Dua Lipa's Sleeper Hits

August 10, 2023

Dua Lipa, the talented British singer, and songwriter, has made an indelible mark on the music industry with her chart-topping hits that resonate with audiences around the world. Her discography...

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Chief Keef: The Pioneer of Trap Music

August 10, 2023

Chief Keef stands as a trailblazing figure who reshaped the genre and introduced a new wave of music known as drill. Being raised in Chicago's South Side, Chief Keef's rise to fame...

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The Irresistible Allure of Fuji Kaze's "Shinunoga E-Wa"

August 9, 2023

If you're currently nodding your head in agreement, then you're likely familiar with the captivating melody of Fuji Kaze's "Shinunoga E-Wa." Released as part of his debut album "HELP EVER HURT...

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Travis Scott’s Long-Awaited Album: Utopia

August 8, 2023

In the ever-evolving landscape of hip-hop, few artists have managed to captivate and redefine the genre quite like Travis Scott. Known for his innovative sound, genre-blurring approach...

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Playboi Carti and His Influence on The Music Industry

August 7, 2023

Born Jordan Terrell Carter on September 13, 1996, Carti's introduction to music began at an early age, as he dabbled in both writing and formulating beats. However, it wasn't until he gained...

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Tory Lanez's "Hurts Me"; A Srategic Move or a Sincere Effort?

August 7, 2023

In June, Tory Lanez made headlines by dropping a fresh single titled "Hurt Me," a creation that emerged from behind bars as he awaits his sentencing in the Megan Thee Stallion shooting case...

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JoJo Siwa’s ‘Bette Davis Eyes’ Cover Sparked Drama; Original Singer Responds

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One of the most talked-about musical moments of the summer is JoJo Siwa's recent rendition of the 1981 classic "Bette Davis Eyes." On July 11, she shared her retro-style rendition, sparking intense online reactions. The song's original singer, Kim Carnes, even responded nuancedly.

The Controversy Unfolded

JoJo Siwa's studio version of "Bette Davis Eyes," which has a throwback Hollywood vibe, was released on July 11. Wearing a cropped blonde wig and a gingham gown, she captioned the photo, "'Bette Davis Eyes' cover out now, stream everywhere you listen to music." Inspired by her electrifying live performance in London, she presented it as a celebration of confidence and mystery.

But the response was swift, and mostly harsh. Her autotune use, raspy voice, and general quality were criticized by many listeners. While one commenter criticized her for deviating from her signature ponytail, another said it sounded like an "anti-smoking campaign."

Then Kim Carnes replied. She hinted at displeasure in a now-deleted TikTok tweet, stating, “There is a difference between singing a song... and embodying it... authenticity is what makes music timeless.”

Later, in the American news outlet,TMZ, she stated:

“The phrasing, the tone, even the little inflections; it all felt a bit too close.” She also stressed that personal attacks are unacceptable, even while asserting her right to speak about how closely Siwa’s version resembled.

The Fallout Online

The moment ignited a heated debate. On Reddit, one user said:

“Kim didn’t write the song; but she made it famous. She has a claim.” Another wondered aloud why fans obsess over JoJo so much.

Meanwhile, commentary writers labeled the release “bold” yet cringe-worthy, noting the shift in Siwa’s image and sound.

This isn't just a cover; it's a component of a larger rebranding, in between her new song "Raspy," (a self-aware clapback to her critics)s, and her evolving appearance.

Why does it all matter?

Musical covers must strike a balance between authenticity and tribute. If they sound too close, they risk being perceived as blatant imitation, but if they sound too different, they risk offending listeners of the original song.

Reinvention vs Legacy Legacy performers, such as Kim Carnes, who is well known for her 1981 hit song "Bette Davis Eyes," have a particular sound that defines their personal brand. A cover that is too similar to that style may elicit strong, emotional responses.

Internet Culture Clash: A real-time generational and stylistic clash is taking place on social media as JoJo Siwa's online, meme-literate fanbase and Carnes' classic pop legacy collide.

Final Take

JoJo Siwa's cover of "Bette Davis Eyes" was more than simply another release. It was a cultural moment, nostalgic galore, and generational musical differences. Kim Carnes' measured response and fan backlash demonstrate how deeply personal a musical legacy can be and how quickly it may become viral.

JoJo Siwa’s ‘Bette Davis Eyes’ Cover Sparked Drama; Original Singer Respondsjojo-siwas-bette-davis-eyes-cover-sparked-drama-original-singer-respondsLienor KatasAug 15, 2025One of the most talked-about musical moments of the summer is JoJo Siwa's recent rendition of the 1981 classic "Bette Davis Eyes." On July 11, she shared her retro-style rendition, sparking intense...