If you like this version, which is fine, though it plays loosely with a beautiful Tom Waits melody and rushes the tempo, you simply must listen to Rickie Lee Jones' version, which is the definitive recording of this song and will never be topped.
She had the flu, and there was a flood in the theatre basement due to a severe rainstorm, and in those days before wireless microphones, electrocution was a real possibility. So that all played a part. She begged them to film another night, but they refused.
she was unhappy with a lot of the end result of this movie concert including the lighting which is a shambles here - at some points she's in total darkenss for no reason
What The rickie lee jones versions isnt as good as this! it is the definitive it is a reality for rickie who was homeless her best freind was tom waits in los angeles who wrote this sing. Rickie understands the pain and hope of one alcoholic trying to hopelessly uplift the other one. Bette does a very nice german caberet version but not the power and sadness of rickie lee jones! She might have well written it herself, and she has done equally if not better in her own lyrics.
Pity the final word, "sleeve", got cut off of the video. What happened? I, too, am disappointed that this didn't make it onto the DVD and wonder if there were licensing problems somewhere along the way - I don't know that she ever sang it anywhere else.
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splinky45 5 months ago
If you like this version, which is fine, though it plays loosely with a beautiful Tom Waits melody and rushes the tempo, you simply must listen to Rickie Lee Jones' version, which is the definitive recording of this song and will never be topped.
skyvue 7 months ago
She had the flu, and there was a flood in the theatre basement due to a severe rainstorm, and in those days before wireless microphones, electrocution was a real possibility. So that all played a part. She begged them to film another night, but they refused.
dfwjac 11 months ago
Great song.
Rickie Lee,s version can never be topped.
buelloldman 1 year ago
Wow...it is unfortunate that there are those that cannot appreciate all avenues....
trekkerinmarengo 1 year ago
THE DIVINE ONE!
deeway1963 1 year ago
I heard that she was very sick during the concert...well, no matter what,she remains divine!
karelleimena 1 year ago
she was unhappy with a lot of the end result of this movie concert including the lighting which is a shambles here - at some points she's in total darkenss for no reason
Genius version of the song though
grai 1 year ago
What The rickie lee jones versions isnt as good as this! it is the definitive it is a reality for rickie who was homeless her best freind was tom waits in los angeles who wrote this sing. Rickie understands the pain and hope of one alcoholic trying to hopelessly uplift the other one. Bette does a very nice german caberet version but not the power and sadness of rickie lee jones! She might have well written it herself, and she has done equally if not better in her own lyrics.
lloydsk 2 years ago
Would be nice if people recorded the ENTIRE FRICKING SONG before posting.
For Christ's sake - learn to use electronic equipment before you play in the major leagues, people!!!
PeterFormaini 2 years ago 2
Pity the final word, "sleeve", got cut off of the video. What happened? I, too, am disappointed that this didn't make it onto the DVD and wonder if there were licensing problems somewhere along the way - I don't know that she ever sang it anywhere else.
charlesns 2 years ago
WOW! Bette Midler blows this one out of the water! Perfect for her Divine voice! I must say that Rickie Lee Jones version is not NEAR as good!
MegaSpliffer 2 years ago
For years I've only heard Rickie Lee Jones do this song. Nice to hear a different version (I still prefer Rickie's though). Thanks!
licksamba1 2 years ago
With all due respect to the Divine Miss M, Rickie Lee Jones KILLS this song on her 1983 EP "Girl At Her Volcano." Check it out.
mnwla 3 years ago
it's a shame it wasn't on the dvd, just like "shiver me timbres".
karelleimena 3 years ago 2
Tom Waits writes the best songs :).
Lilacsinm 3 years ago
Beautiful perfomance & beautiful song. Hadn't heard it before. Thanks for sharing! 5*****
Brenda
iluvmartyd 3 years ago
A very beautiful song, a great performance of Bette. Have never heard it. Thanks!
antonic75 3 years ago