The original, rather jazzy version was released in 1975. It was sung by Jackie DeShannon.
It was in 1981 with Kim Carnes that the song found success. Donna Weiss, the author of the song, presented him with several songs, including the rock version that Kim Carnes immediately adopted.
“Bette Davis Eyes” remains one of the flagship titles of the 80s. It remained No. 9 for 1 weeks. Billboard Hot 100 . It refers to Bette Davis, the great American actress of the last century.

The song had musical potential but it owes its immense success both to its brilliant riff found by Bill Cuomo (arranger) and to the very original hoarse voice of Kim Carnes.
The singer will not have other major popular successes. His career focused more on country music.