"Over 35 years ago Bette Midler was affectionately known around Manhattan as "Bette Mildew" since she spent many hours working in a queer bathhouse called The Continental (which would gain notoriety years later in the slapstick comedy "The Ritz"). It was at this bath house that she honed her skills and learn how to work a crowd. Within a couple of years Bette was so famous that she couldn't even take the time out to perform at RENO SWEENEY'S, a club which was created specifically for her!
This particular clip- "Marijuana" was shot at The Continental on September 6, 1971. Bruce Valanch was probably already writing her material and Barry Manilow was definitely behind the keys."
Added by mrpussypants