"Bette Davis Eyes" began life as a song co-written by Donna Weiss and Jackie DeShannon. A recording of it was included on Jackie DeShannon's 1974 album New Arrangement, but it was not until Kim Carnes released her version in 1981 that the song became a hit. The brilliantly atmospheric arrangement complemented Carnes' raspy delivery and "Bette Davis Eyes" spent 9 weeks at the top of the pop singles chart. Bette Davis reportedly thanked Kim Carnes for making her a part of "modern history."
1982: Kim Carnes - "Bette Davis Eyes"
By Bill Lamb, About.com Guide
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