Kim Carnes

Early Life

Kim Carnes was born on July 20, 1945, in Los Angeles, California. Growing up in a non-musical family, her father was an attorney and her mother a hospital administrator, Carnes knew from the age of three that she wanted to be a singer and songwriter. Despite her parents' skepticism about her career choice, she pursued her passion relentlessly.

Career

Carnes embarked on her music career in the early 1970s, signing her first publishing deal with producer Jimmy Bowen. She gained early recognition as a session background singer and released her debut album, "Rest on Me," in 1971. Her breakthrough came with her self-titled second album in 1975, which featured her first charting single, "You're a Part of Me," reaching No. 32 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart. The following year, she released "Sailin'", which included the award-winning song "Love Comes from Unexpected Places". Carnes is best known for her iconic 1981 hit single, "Bette Davis Eyes," which solidified her status in the music industry.

Artistry

Carnes's vocal style is characterized by a distinctively raspy and throaty quality, drawing comparisons to artists like Rod Stewart and Bonnie Tyler. Her unique sound earned her the nickname "The Queen of Rasp 'n' Roll" in the early 1990s.

Personal Life

Kim Carnes has been married to her husband, Dave Ellingson, since November 1967. The couple has two sons, Collin and Ry, and they moved back to California in 2026 after living in Nashville for several years. Collin has collaborated with Carnes on several songs and is featured on her album "Barking at Airplanes."