Kim Carnes is a legendary American singer-songwriter who has captivated audiences for over four decades with her distinctively raspy and emotive voice. With hits like “Bette Davis Eyes,” “Crazy in the Night (Barking at Airplanes),” and “More Love,” Carnes has cemented her place in music history as one of the most iconic and influential female artists of her time.
In this article, we will be counting down the 10 Best Kim Carnes Songs of All Time, exploring the songs that have made the biggest impact on listeners and showcasing the unique talent and style that has made Carnes a beloved figure in the music industry. From her early hits to her more recent releases, we will delve into the stories and emotions behind each track, examining what makes them stand out and why they continue to resonate with fans today. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to Carnes’ music, this list is sure to provide a deeper appreciation for the talent and artistry of this incredible artist.
1. What About Me” feat. Kenny Rogers & James Ingram
“What About Me” is a powerful ballad by Kim Carnes, featuring Kenny Rogers and James Ingram. Released in 1984, the song quickly became a hit, reaching the top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song tells the story of a person who feels overlooked and forgotten in their relationships with others, pleading for someone to acknowledge their feelings and needs. The lyrics are poignant and relatable, speaking to the universal desire for love and recognition. The combination of Carnes’ raspy, emotive voice, Rogers’ smooth vocals, and Ingram’s soulful delivery creates a truly unforgettable performance. The song remains a fan favorite and a testament to the enduring appeal of Carnes’ music.
2. You’re a Part of Me
“You’re a Part of Me” is a romantic duet by Kim Carnes and Gene Cotton, released in 1981. The song is a tender declaration of love between two people who have been through their share of ups and downs, but ultimately know that they belong together. The warm, acoustic guitar-driven melody is perfectly complemented by the heartfelt lyrics and the chemistry between Carnes and Cotton’s voices. The song was a commercial success, reaching the top 40 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, and remains a fan favorite for its genuine emotion and sincerity. With its timeless message of love and commitment, “You’re a Part of Me” is a testament to Carnes’ skill as a songwriter and performer.
3. Sweet Love Song to My Soul
“Sweet Love Song to My Soul” is a song by American singer Kim Carnes. It was released in 1991 as part of her album “Checkin’ Out the Ghosts.” The track has a beautiful melody with a nostalgic feel that perfectly suits Kim Carnes’ soulful vocals. The lyrics describe the feeling of being lost and disconnected, with the singer yearning for someone to love her and make her feel whole again. The song’s emotional tone and Carnes’ powerful vocals make it a moving and relatable track for anyone who has ever felt lost or alone. “Sweet Love Song to My Soul” is a testament to Carnes’ ability to evoke strong emotions through her music and continues to be a fan favorite to this day.
4. Too Far Gone
“Too Far Gone” is a hauntingly beautiful ballad by Kim Carnes, released in 1980. The song showcases Carnes’ unique vocal style, with her raspy voice adding a raw, emotional quality to the lyrics. The song tells the story of a person who is struggling to let go of a past love, knowing that they are “too far gone” to ever be able to reconcile. The melancholy melody is backed by soaring strings and a moody guitar riff, creating a sense of longing and sadness. The song was a critical and commercial success, reaching the top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, and has since become a beloved classic in Carnes’ catalog. With its powerful lyrics and evocative instrumentation, “Too Far Gone” is a testament to Carnes’ talent as both a songwriter and performer.
5. Does It Make You Remember?
“Does It Make You Remember?” is a poignant ballad by Kim Carnes, released in 1982. The song explores the bittersweet emotions that come with memories of a past love, as the narrator wonders if their former partner thinks of them as fondly as they do. The song features Carnes’ signature raspy vocals, adding a rawness and depth to the lyrics. The melody is wistful and reflective, with a haunting guitar riff underscoring the melancholy mood. The song was a moderate success, reaching the top 40 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, and has since become a fan favorite for its relatable themes and moving performance. With its memorable melody and heartfelt lyrics, “Does It Make You Remember?” is a testament to Carnes’ talent as a songwriter and singer.
6. Invisible Hands
“Invisible Hands” is a song by American singer Kim Carnes that was released in 1983 as part of her album “Café Racers.” The song’s upbeat tempo, synthesized sound, and infectious melody make it an excellent representation of the era’s pop music. The lyrics describe a love that is powerful enough to overcome any obstacles, with the “invisible hands” representing the forces that guide the singer’s love. The song’s energy and optimism make it a perfect choice for a feel-good playlist or a workout session. Kim Carnes’ unique vocal style and the song’s catchy beat combine to create a track that is both uplifting and entertaining. “Invisible Hands” was a popular hit during the 80s and continues to be a beloved classic to this day.
7. You Make My Heart Beat Faster (And That’s All That Matters)
“You Make My Heart Beat Faster (And That’s All That Matters)” is an upbeat, synth-driven track by Kim Carnes, released in 1985. The song is a celebration of the rush of falling in love, with Carnes’ vocals conveying a sense of excitement and joy. The driving melody is buoyed by catchy hooks and a danceable rhythm, making it a popular choice on the dance floor. The song was a commercial success, reaching the top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, and remains a beloved favorite for its infectious energy and optimistic message. With its upbeat tempo and romantic lyrics, “You Make My Heart Beat Faster (And That’s All That Matters)” is a standout track in Carnes’ discography and a testament to her versatility as an artist.
8. Crazy in Love
“Crazy in Love” is a high-energy, rock-infused track by Kim Carnes, released in 1988. The song features Carnes’ signature raspy vocals, adding a rawness and intensity to the lyrics. The melody is driven by pulsing guitars and a driving beat, creating a sense of urgency and passion. The song explores the dizzying highs and lows of being in love, with Carnes’ performance conveying a sense of wild abandon and exhilaration. The song was a moderate success, reaching the top 40 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, and remains a fan favorite for its catchy hooks and explosive energy. With its powerful vocals and rock-inspired instrumentation, “Crazy in Love” is a standout track in Carnes’ catalog and a testament to her skill as a songwriter and performer.
9. Draw of the Cards
“Draw of the Cards” is a song by American singer Kim Carnes that was released in 1981 as part of her album “Mistaken Identity.” The song has a distinctive and mysterious sound that is created by the use of synthesizers and percussion. The lyrics describe the unpredictability of life, with the “draw of the cards” representing fate and the singer pleading for a chance to change her destiny. The song’s haunting melody and Carnes’ powerful vocals create a sense of urgency and tension that builds throughout the track. “Draw of the Cards” was a hit during the 80s and remains a classic example of the era’s unique sound and style. The song’s message and Carnes’ emotive delivery make it a powerful and thought-provoking track that continues to resonate with audiences today.
10. Don’t Fall in Love with a Dreamer
“Don’t Fall in Love with a Dreamer” is a duet song by American singer Kim Carnes and American country music singer Kenny Rogers. The track was released in 1980 as part of Kenny Rogers’ album “Gideon” and became a hit single, reaching number four on the Billboard Hot 100. The song features a beautiful melody that perfectly blends the two artists’ distinct voices, with Rogers’ country style and Carnes’ emotive delivery complementing each other perfectly. The lyrics caution against falling in love with someone who is more focused on their dreams than on the relationship. The song’s message and the artists’ powerful vocals make it an emotional and relatable track for anyone who has ever been in love with someone who was more focused on their ambitions than on the relationship. “Don’t Fall in Love with a Dreamer” remains a timeless classic and a fan favorite to this day.
Darren Jamison is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
