Renowned entertainer Barry Manilow has captivated hearts and ears worldwide with his enchanting melodies and heartfelt lyrics. With timeless hits like “Mandy” and “Copacabana (At the Copa),” he has left an indelible mark on the music industry, earning a place as a cherished singer-songwriter.
Born on June 17, 1943, in the heart of Brooklyn, New York, to Russian immigrants, Manilow’s life story unfolds as a captivating tale of self-discovery and determination. Amidst challenges, his passion for music was nurtured by the unlikely figure of his mother’s second husband, Willie Murphy, an Irish truck driver with an impressive record collection. This early influence laid the foundation for Manilow’s lifelong love affair with music.
Manilow’s artistic journey wasn’t paved with gold. Before attending the prestigious New York College of Music, he pursued education at the City College of New York and later the illustrious Juilliard School. A stint as a log clerk at CBS and a youthful marriage to Susan Deixler marked his early steps. Yet, destiny beckoned him to follow his musical calling, even if it meant leaving behind his marital ties.
From humble beginnings in show business, Manilow honed his craft through composing commercial jingles, carving out his unique style. His contributions to jingles for industry giants like Dr. Pepper and McDonald’s allowed him to fine-tune his knack for crafting catchy melodies, setting the stage for his later successes.
The pinnacle of his career came in 1973 when Manilow released his debut album. However, it was the reimagined version of “Mandy,” initially named “Brandy,” that propelled him into the limelight the following year. The transformation of the song’s tempo and chords, advised by Clive Davis, president of Arista Records, birthed the iconic melody we now know and adore.
His meteoric rise continued, culminating in a remarkable feat in 1978—five albums simultaneously gracing the best-selling charts. Despite the pressures of fame, Manilow remained grounded, sharing, “At 40 years of age, showcasing oneself incessantly loses its allure.”
Behind the curtains of stardom, Manilow harbored a deeply personal secret that would only be unveiled later in life. In 2017, at the age of 73, he bravely revealed his homosexuality, putting an end to years of speculation. This revelation also showcased his decades-long relationship with his manager, Garry Kief. The couple, together since 1978, had quietly tied the knot three years before Manilow’s announcement, drawing a positive response from his devoted fans.
Reflecting on their enduring partnership, Manilow conveyed, “Ours is a story of respect and understanding, a journey spanning four decades without any major discord… A testament that love knows no bounds.” Their story serves as a beacon of hope for others, inspiring those who may be grappling with their identities to embrace their truth.
In addition to his musical achievements, Manilow’s legacy includes his candidness about undergoing plastic surgeries and the transformative impact of multiple hip surgeries on his appearance. However, perhaps his most powerful legacy lies in his bravery as an LGBTQ+ role model. By coming out in his later years, Manilow sends a resounding message of courage and acceptance, proving that it’s never too late to live authentically.
As Barry Manilow continues to serenade audiences worldwide, he remains an emblem of resilience, authenticity, and undying talent. His journey is a testament to the power of music to shape lives and the unwavering strength it takes to embrace one’s true self.