About this album
Where they were
By the time 'Experience the Divine: Greatest Hits' was released in 1993, Bette Midler was at a commercial peak following her successful albums in the 1980s. This compilation not only celebrated her previous hits but also coincided with her burgeoning film career, including roles that expanded her reach beyond music. It served as a retrospective of her dynamic contributions to popular music up until that point.
Why it matters
This album reached number 8 on the Billboard 200 chart, solidifying Midler's status as a mainstream artist. Its success was bolstered by the inclusion of beloved tracks like 'Wind Beneath My Wings,' which has become an enduring standard and a signature song for Midler, illustrating her influence on both pop culture and the music industry.
Essential tracks
- "The Rose" — 'The Rose' stands out as one of Midler's most iconic ballads, showcasing her emotional depth and vocal range while resonating deeply with themes of love and resilience.
- "Wind Beneath My Wings" — This heartfelt anthem epitomizes Midler's ability to convey profound emotion, becoming a cultural touchstone often associated with tribute moments and celebrations.
- "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy" — A lively rendition that highlights her roots in musical theater and showcases her charismatic performance style, making it a fan favorite.
- "From a Distance" — 'From a Distance' captures Midler’s poignant storytelling through music, addressing themes of perspective and humanity that resonate across generations.
Release Date
June 22, 1993
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
- 1 To Deserve You (single remix) 4:11
- 2 Beast of Burden 3:49
- 3 Favorite Waste of Time 2:40
- 4 Hello in There 4:17
- 5 Do You Want to Dance 2:44
- 6 From a Distance 4:38
- 7 Chapel of Love 2:54
- 8 Only in Miami 3:56
- 9 When a Man Loves a Woman 4:54
- 10 The Rose 3:34
- 11 Miss Otis Regrets 2:38
- 12 Shiver Me Timbers 4:43
- 13 Wind Beneath My Wings 4:53
- 14 Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy 2:18
- 15 One for My Baby (And One More for the Road) 4:07
- 16 Friends 2:56
- 17 In My Life 3:13
- 18 To Deserve You (album version) 5:13
