Kim Carnes was born on July 20, 1945, in Los Angeles, California. From a tender age of three, Kim had a burning desire to become a successful singer and songwriter. She began her music career in the 1960s, writing songs for other artists, performing at local clubs, and working as a session vocalist. In 1966, Kim joined the folk group the New Christy Minstrels, but soon left to form the duo Kim and Dave with her husband David Ellingson.
Kim's acting career took off when she appeared in the 1967 motion picture "C'mon, Let's Live a Little." She released her debut album "Rest on Me" in 1972, followed by a string of albums that showcased her remarkable talent. Kim scored her first hit with the duet "You're a Part of Me" alongside Gene Cotton, and her subsequent collaborations with Kenny Rogers and the Miracles were equally successful.
However, it was her iconic song "Bette Davis Eyes" that catapulted Kim to international stardom, topping the Billboard charts for a record-breaking nine weeks and earning her two Grammy Awards for Song of the Year and Record of the Year. Kim had the privilege of performing the song live for the legendary actress Bette Davis at a tribute event.
In 1985, Kim achieved the remarkable feat of having singles in three different categories simultaneously on the pop charts: solo ("Invitation to Dance"),duo ("Make No Mistake, He's Mine," with Barbra Streisand),and trio ("What About Me," with Kenny Rogers and James Ingram). Kim also lent her voice to the iconic song "We Are the World," alongside an all-star musical lineup.
Throughout her illustrious career, Kim has had her songs featured on the soundtracks of numerous films, including the cult classic "Vanishing Point," the blockbuster "Flashdance," "Spaceballs," "North Country," and "Heartbreak Hotel." Kim is the proud mother of sons Ryan and Collin and has continued to perform live and write songs for prominent country artists such as Tanya Tucker, Sawyer Brown, Pam Tillis, Reba McIntire, and Deanna Carter.
