Bette Midler Reveals She Didn’t Expect Wind Beneath My Wings to Be a Hit; ‘I Was So Proud of That Record’

As a lifestyle expert and someone who deeply appreciates the rich history of music and entertainment, I can’t help but marvel at Bette Midler’s remarkable journey with “Wind Beneath My Wings.” This iconic song, which has become synonymous with emotional moments and weddings, took both Midler and her team by surprise when it unexpectedly rose to the top of the charts in 1989.


As a die-hard fan of Bette Midler, I can’t help but be thrilled by her recent confession in an interview with PEOPLE. The iconic singer and actress, who has long held a special place in my heart, seemed just as surprised as I am about the enduring success of her 1988 film Beaches and its anthemic theme song, Wind Beneath My Wings. In her own words, she admitted that the unexpected chart-topping hit took her and her team by surprise. “We didn’t realize the power we held in our hands,” Midler reflected, making me cherish even more the timeless beauty of this musical masterpiece.

Wind Beneath My Wings’ chart-topping achievement

In June 1989, “Wind Beneath My Wings” peaked at the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Six months prior, this emotionally resonant song had been featured in theaters during the holiday season as part of the film “Beaches.” The track’s success was marked by numerous awards.

Back in February 1990, I was fortunate enough to be part of an extraordinary achievement. My collaborator, Arif Mardin, and I, received the prestigious Record of the Year Grammy Award. It was a momentous occasion, and the accolade didn’t just belong to me – the talented songwriters, Jeff Silbar and Larry Henley, also took home the award for Song of the Year. So, we all shared this incredible victory in the realm of music.

Midler deeply cherished both the song and its late producer, Arif Mardin. She shared, “I felt so proud of that album as Arif Mardin was an extraordinary genius – witty, kind, and a delight to be around. I considered myself fortunate to have worked with him for such an extended period.” Upon receiving the Record of the Year award, Midler was elated for Mardin and continues to honor his memory by keeping a photo of him on her mantel.

Bette Midler was not enthusiastic about recording the song

It’s intriguing that Midler initially hesitated to record “Wind Beneath My Wings.” In her conversation with Gayle King in 2021, she disclosed that at first, she found the song somewhat cheesy and didn’t grasp its meaning completely.

She previously stated, “I wouldn’t be singing that song,” but now Midler has changed her mind. The tune holds a special significance for her and she admitted, “I have come to genuinely enjoy it.”

Midler’s music career has lasted for several decades and includes numerous popular hits, such as “Wind Beneath My Wings,” which remains a major achievement. In her latest film, “The Fabulous Four,” she takes on a more playful approach to the topic of friendship.

In the movie, she plays the role of a self-absorbed widow who reaches out to former acquaintances prior to her upcoming wedding. Midler commended her fellow actors, specifically Sheryl Lee Ralph, Megan Mullally, and Susan Sarandon, for delivering exceptional performances.

Read More

2024-07-19 19:42