Well, well, well, what do we have here? It looks like the internet is buzzing about JoJo Siwa’s brand new cover version of the iconic 1981 hit, “Bette Davis Eyes,” originally sung by the legendary Kim Carnes. JoJo, known for her energetic pop anthems and vibrant personality, has taken a surprising turn with this release, opting for a more vintage, almost 1930s-inspired aesthetic to accompany the song.
Just as JoJo was teasing her rendition earlier this week, the original voice behind those unforgettable “Bette Davis Eyes,” Kim Carnes herself, appeared to weigh in with a cryptic message. In a now-deleted TikTok video, the Grammy winner reportedly shared a clip of her own music video for the song. Alongside it, she wrote a message that has everyone raising their eyebrows: “There is a difference between singing a song…. And embodying it…. I’ve always believed authenticity is what makes music timeless. I’m forever grateful to be the voice behind this one….. ‘Bette Davis Eyes.'”
kim carnes posting this last night.. i love her pic.twitter.com/2Ax7RV6fSe
— trent. (@mandylane06) July 10, 2025Ouch! While Kim Carnes didn’t directly name JoJo Siwa, the timing of her post, just days before JoJo’s cover version dropped on Friday, July 11th, has many fans interpreting it as a subtle shade. It seems Kim might not be entirely on board with JoJo’s take on her classic tune.
Now, let’s talk about JoJo’s cover. The former Dance Moms star and recent Celebrity Big Brother UK contestant has definitely switched things up. In the teaser clips she shared on social media, JoJo is seen sporting a short, curly blonde wig and a blue gingham crop top, channeling old Hollywood glamour. Interestingly, during a live performance of the song in London back in May, JoJo even tweaked the lyrics to “Chris Hughes’ Eyes,” a sweet, yet slightly nauseating nod to her new boyfriend. However, it seems the official studio version sticks to the original “Bette Davis Eyes.”
It’s safe to say this cover has sparked a bit of a debate online. Some fans are loving JoJo’s unexpected musical direction and her bold interpretation, while others are perhaps a bit more critical, especially in light of Kim Carnes’ possible reaction. Regardless, it’s certainly got people talking about both JoJo Siwa’s new music and the timeless appeal of “Bette Davis Eyes.” It even seems like Kim Carnes’ original version is experiencing a bit of a resurgence, proving that some songs truly never go out of style.
What do you think of JoJo Siwa’s cover? And was Kim Carnes throwing shade? Let us know in the comments below!
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