The impressionist Kate Bush called “a genius”
There’s no one quite like Kate Bush. Blending her soaring vocals with ethereal soundscapes, the singer forged a unique form of art pop that took the charts by storm. Her music was at once avant-garde and accessible, earning her simultaneous critical and commercial acclaim, both of which continue to this day. Despite the singularity of her talent and her work, like all artists, Bush has been subject to impressionism and mimicry.
While some artists might take offence to their artistry or personality being imitated, Bush seems to subscribe to the belief that imitation is the highest form of flattery. When Liverpool-born singer and impressionist Faith Brown took on the task of channelling the singer in a parody of the literary-influenced ‘Wuthering Heights’, Bush’s response was full of praise.
The song seems like an impossible one to recreate. No matter how hard we all try to do it justice, it’s inevitable that someone will murder ‘Wuthering Heights’ at karaoke. The accompanying music video for the song was just as memorable as Bush’s impossible vocalisations. Following a wide-eyed Bush through a graceful routine that often coincides with the lyrics, the distinctive choreography and iconic red dress has been endlessly recreated.
It was this movement that formed the basis for Brown’s imitation, as the impressionist sought to copy Bush’s famed choreography. This level of commitment impressed the original singer, who declared her a “genius” and commended the research behind the performance during an appearance on the Saturday Morning Show.
“I’d just like to say that I think the amount of research [that] she must have done,” she enthused, “I mean, she must have watched that video so many times, because the movements are just… they’re better than mine, you know, even when she falls over, it’s great.” It certainly must have taken Brown some intense research to perfectly recreate Bush’s intricate and controlled choreography.
During an interview with Nineteen, Bush again reiterated how impressed she was by Brown’s commitment to learning the dance before admitting, “Of course, it’s very flattering to be mimicked.” But Bush’s complimentary attitude towards Brown’s mimicry was not just limited to her interviews.
The singer even extended her admiration for Brown’s performance to the impressionist personally, reportedly sending her a lengthy letter of appreciation. While many artists might have taken the imitation as a form of mockery or a reduction of their artistry, Bush had nothing but admiration for Brown’s commitment to her craft.
As gracious as she is talented, it seems that Bush knew that any imitation of ‘Wuthering Heights’ only further served to compliment her artistry. Revisit the iconic music video below.
