Barry Manilow

Barry Manilow is an American singer-songwriter, arranger, musician, and actor who has been entertaining audiences around the globe for over five decades. With over 80 million records sold worldwide, numerous top charting hits, and countless awards and accolades to his name, Manilow has cemented his place in the pantheon of great American entertainers.

Manilow’s love for music started at an early age. He was born on June 17, 1943, in Brooklyn, New York, and grew up in a Jewish household where music played a significant role. He studied classical piano from a young age, and by 13, he had begun writing his own music. Manilow honed his craft by working as a music director and arranger for various television shows and advertising jingles.

It was in the early 1970s when Manilow started his meteoric rise to fame, thanks to his association with music producer Clive Davis. In 1973, Davis signed Manilow to his newly formed label, Arista Records. His debut album, “Barry Manilow,” was released the same year, but it was his second album, “Barry Manilow II” that propelled him to stardom. The album featured hits like “Mandy” and “It’s a Miracle,” which both reached the top of the Billboard charts.

Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Manilow churned out hit after hit, including “Weekend in New England,” “Looks Like We Made It,” and “Copacabana (At the Copa).” His music was a mix of pop, rock, and disco, with catchy melodies, lush arrangements, and heartfelt lyrics. Manilow’s voice was smooth, emotive, and perfectly suited to his style of music.

Manilow’s appeal transcended generations and genres. His fans spanned from teenagers to senior citizens, and his music was loved by everyone, from disco dancers to easy listening aficionados. His concerts were marked by elaborate stage setups, dazzling lights, and show-stopping performances. Manilow was a consummate showman and knew how to keep his audience captivated for hours.

Aside from his music career, Manilow has also made a name for himself in other fields. He has acted in films and television shows, including “Copacabana” and “Murphy Brown.” He has also written several Broadway musicals, including “Copacabana” and “Harmony.” In 2018, he was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, a fitting tribute to his contribution to the music industry.

Despite his success, Manilow has had his share of personal struggles. He has battled depression and has been vocal about his struggles with his sexuality. In 2017, he came out as gay and revealed that he had married his longtime manager, Garry Kief, in a private ceremony in 2014. The revelation surprised many of his fans but also garnered support and respect for his honesty.

Today, at 78 years old, Manilow continues to perform and record music. In 2020, he released his 31st studio album, “Night Songs II,” a collection of timeless classics and contemporary hits. Despite the pandemic, Manilow found new ways to connect with his fans. He launched a virtual concert series, “Barry Manilow: Live from Your Living Room,” which attracted thousands of viewers from around the world.

Barry Manilow’s legacy is one of the most enduring in music history. He has inspired generations of musicians and entertained millions of people across the globe. His music continues to resonate with fans of all ages, and his influence can still be heard in the works of today’s pop stars. Barry Manilow is a true American icon, and his remarkable career is a testament to the power of music and the perseverance of one man’s dreams.