Barry Manilow famously scored his first #1 single with “Mandy” on January 18, 1975. Over his illustrious career, Manilow has sold more than 75 million records, a monumental achievement that reflects the deep connection his music forged with audiences worldwide.
At the peak of his fame, none other than Frank Sinatra boldly declared, “He’s next.” Yet, amid this acclaim, Manilow was strangely caught in the crossfire of cultural critics. The youthful tastemakers of his era dismissed his music as bombastic and schmaltzy, despite the fact that millions of Americans eagerly consumed each new release. What these critics failed to grasp was Manilow’s refusal to follow fleeting trends. “I have purposely tried not to stay in sync with the times,” Manilow once revealed. “I just do what feels good.” Even as a teenager in the 1950s, his devotion was to pop standards and Broadway show tunes rather than the rock & roll idols like Elvis Presley. This distinct preference set the stage for his breakthrough.
Before his solo success, Barry’s journey included a pivotal collaboration with Bette Midler. Initially her piano player, then her musical director, he made significant arrangements for her acclaimed album Divine Miss M, including tour performances like the classic “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy.” This partnership was crucial; it granted him the opportunity to perform his own pieces during Midler’s intermissions, a bold move that leapfrogged him into the spotlight.
His talents caught the eye of music industry titan Clive Davis, who signed him to the then-newly founded Arista Records. This association led to a streak of hits: “Mandy,” “It’s a Miracle,” “I Write the Songs,” “Looks Like We Made It,” along with 21 more top-40 hits between 1975 and 1983. Billboard and Radio & Records crowned him the top Adult Contemporary chart artist of all time.
Despite a decline in chart appearances in recent years, Barry Manilow’s concerts remain packed with passionate fans, undeterred by the mockery from certain pop critics. His music continues to resonate, transcending generations and genres.
The lyrics of “Mandy” themselves tell a tale of raw emotion and vulnerability:
“I remember all my life
Raining down as cold as ice
Shadows of a man
A face through a window
Crying in the night…”
These heartfelt verses capture the profound longing and regret of love lost and found, echoing deeply with listeners worldwide.
Barry Manilow, with “Mandy,” did more than just write a song; he created a timeless anthem that remains etched in the hearts of millions, a testament to his enduring allure and artistic integrity.