Ariana Grande has hit back at Bette Midler after the showbiz veteran accused the singer of using 'sex' to sell records.

During an interview with The Telegraph, the legend stated: "It’s terrible! It’s always surprising to see someone like Ariana Grande with that silly high voice, a very wholesome voice, slithering around on a couch, looking so ridiculous.

[related]"I mean, it’s silly beyond belief and I don’t know who’s telling her to do it. I wish they’d stop. But it’s not my business, I’m not her mother. Or her manager. Maybe they tell them that’s what you’ve got to do. Sex sells. Sex has always sold."

Ari has now taken to Twitter to respond to Midler's remarks, posting a vintage snap of Bette in a bikini in the 1970s, draped in pearls.

She accompanied the snap with the caption: "All love here", before adding the comment: "Bette was always a feminist who stood for women being able to do whatever the F they wanted without judgement.

all love here pic.twitter.com/BocrzJEgUj

— Ariana Grande (@ArianaGrande) November 25, 2014

"Not sure where that Bette went but I want that sexy mermaid back!!! Always a fan no matter what my love."

Grande then continued: "And I will still quote first wives club every single day of my life lmao."

Meanwhile, it seems Bette may have had a change of heart when it comes to the Problem singer, with the 68-year old star later tweeting: "About my screed on @ArianaGrande, all I can say is, 'Spoken like a reformed old whore! She does have a beautiful voice, on a couch or off.' "

About my screed on @ArianaGrande , all I can say is, "Spoken like a reformed old whore! She does have a beautiful voice, on a couch or off."

— Bette Midler (@BetteMidler) November 26, 2014

Phew, we're glad that's sorted!