Kim Carnes

Kim Carnes, an influential American singer and songwriter, was born on July 20, 1945, in Los Angeles, California. Raised in Pasadena, she discovered her passion for music at a young age, declaring at just three years old that she would pursue a career in singing and songwriting. Despite her family's non-musical background—her father was an attorney and her mother a hospital administrator—Carnes was determined to make her mark in the industry.

Her professional journey began in the 1960s, where she wrote songs for various artists while performing in local clubs and lending her voice as a session background singer for groups like the Water Sisters. Carnes released her debut album, "Rest on Me," in 1971 after signing a publishing deal with Jimmy Bowen. Her second album featured her first charting single, "You're a Part of Me," which reached No. 35 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart in 1975.

Carnes truly rose to fame in 1980, co-writing songs for Kenny Rogers' concept album "Gideon" and achieving success with their duet "Don't Fall in Love with a Dreamer," which peaked at No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100. That same year, her cover of "More Love" reached No. 10. The following year, she released "Mistaken Identity," which included the iconic hit "Bette Davis Eyes." This track dominated the charts, earning the Grammy Awards for Record of the Year and Song of the Year, while the album itself reached No. 1 on the Billboard 200.

Carnes continued to enjoy a successful career with numerous singles, including "Draw of the Cards," "Crazy in the Night," and "What About Me?" In addition to her performing career, she co-wrote the No. 1 duet "The Heart Won't Lie," recorded by Vince Gill and Reba McEntire. Known for her distinctive raspy voice, Carnes remains an enduring figure in