By admin 
HangupsMusic.com –
Veteran music icon Barry Manilow is poised to captivate audiences once again with the release of his highly anticipated new studio album, What a Time, scheduled for June 5. This forthcoming collection marks a significant milestone in Manilow’s illustrious career, representing his first album predominantly featuring original compositions in nearly fifteen years. The announcement comes as a testament to his enduring creativity and resilience, particularly following recent personal health challenges.
What a Time emerges as Manilow’s 33rd studio album, signaling a vibrant new chapter in a career spanning over five decades. The project largely saw Manilow himself at the helm of production, alongside his long-standing collaborator Michael Lloyd. This partnership has consistently yielded records that resonate deeply with fans, and their combined expertise promises a sound that is both classic Manilow and refreshingly contemporary. The last time Manilow delivered a full-length album of mostly new material was 2011’s 15 Minutes, which impressively secured its place as his 15th top 10 entry on the prestigious Billboard 200 albums chart. His journey to the top of the charts began much earlier, in February 1975, with Barry Manilow II, solidifying his status as a formidable presence in popular music.
Giving fans an early taste of the album’s sonic landscape, Manilow recently unveiled "Sun Shine," an ebullient single that instantly harks back to the infectious optimism of his 1977 smash, "Daybreak." The track is steeped in a delightful retro aesthetic, featuring a charming whistling interlude and the evocative, nostalgic sound of a needle gracefully descending onto a vinyl record. Co-written by Manilow and Gary Barlow of the iconic British pop group Take That, "Sun Shine" showcases a collaborative blend of pop sensibilities. Manilow, David Benson, and Greg Bartheld shared production duties on the single. The accompanying music video, directed by Laïs Sambugaro, takes an unconventional approach, choosing to focus on a charismatic young couple preparing for their day rather than featuring Manilow himself, allowing the song’s joyful essence to take center stage.
Another compelling track from the album, "Once Before I Go," opens the collection with profound lyrical depth. This poignant piece was co-written by the celebrated Oscar winners Dean Pitchford and the late Peter Allen, bringing a rich legacy of songwriting prowess to the project. Lending his executive oversight, Manilow’s longtime mentor, the legendary Clive Davis, further underscores the significance of this particular song. "Once Before I Go" had already made an impact, reaching No. 25 on Billboard’s Adult Contemporary chart in February, further extending Manilow’s remarkable chart presence on that tally to over 51 years. His initial foray onto both the Adult Contemporary chart and the Billboard Hot 100 was in November 1974 with his breakthrough hit, "Mandy." In a more personal touch, Manilow actively participated in the music video for "Once Before I Go," which was filmed at the Westgate Las Vegas, the very venue that hosts his celebrated, long-running residency.
The album also features a fresh recording of "Another Life," an emotionally charged ballad about endings that originally appeared on his 1991 box set, The Complete Collection and Then Some…. This re-imagining suggests a renewed perspective on a classic, offering fans a chance to experience the song with Manilow’s matured artistry. What a Time further enriches its sonic tapestry with guest collaborations. Saxophonist Dave Koz, known for his smooth jazz stylings, lends his distinctive sound to "Look at Me Now," promising an elegant and sophisticated touch. Additionally, vocalist Sharon "Muffy" Hendrix, a familiar and beloved presence in Manilow’s musical circle, joins him for a heartfelt duet on "When Somebody Says Goodbye," adding a layer of warmth and familiarity.
Manilow’s profound involvement in the songwriting process is evident throughout What a Time, as he penned or co-penned eleven of the thirteen tracks. His collaborative spirit shines through partnerships with several esteemed lyricists. He reunited with John Bettis for three songs, continuing a fruitful creative relationship that dates back to their work on "Where Are They Now" from Manilow’s 1979 album, One Voice. Bettis’s lyrical contributions have consistently provided the narrative backbone for many of Manilow’s most cherished songs. Bruce Sussman and Enoch Anderson each contributed to two tracks on the album. Sussman, in particular, holds a special place in Manilow’s history, having co-written what is arguably Manilow’s most iconic and enduring song, "Copacabana (At the Copa)," as well as "I Made It Through the Rain," his most recent top 10 hit on the Billboard Hot 100. The album culminates with "Coming of Age," a track co-written by Manilow and Adrienne Anderson, who famously collaborated on "Could It Be Magic," a cornerstone of Manilow’s 1973 debut album that later achieved top 10 status upon its re-release in 1975. This enduring collaboration highlights the deep roots of Manilow’s songwriting partnerships.
The production credits on What a Time reflect a blend of continuity and fresh perspectives. Manilow and Michael Lloyd co-produced nine of the thirteen tracks, sometimes with additional collaborators, ensuring a cohesive yet diverse sound. The aforementioned "Sun Shine" and "Don’t Trouble the Water" were jointly produced by David Benson, Greg Bartheld, and Manilow. The album also boasts contributions from other highly acclaimed producers, including Kenneth "Babyface" Edmonds, a twelve-time Grammy Award winner renowned for his Midas touch in contemporary R&B and pop, and Dave Cobb, a nine-time Grammy winner celebrated for his work in Americana, rock, and country. This diverse team of producers suggests a meticulous approach to crafting an album that respects Manilow’s legacy while embracing modern sonic nuances.
The release of What a Time is facilitated by Manilow’s own STILETTO Entertainment, with distribution handled by The Orchard. STILETTO Entertainment has been a consistent platform for Manilow’s recent work, having released three of his last five studio albums, underscoring his artistic independence and control over his musical output.
This album announcement arrives during a period that has seen Manilow navigate both significant personal challenges and remarkable professional recognition. In late 2023, he publicly disclosed a diagnosis of early-stage lung cancer, for which he subsequently underwent surgery. However, in an uplifting video released on March 3, Manilow shared an optimistic update, stating, "But I am getting stronger and I have great doctors and wonderful friends and family, but I am so looking forward to getting back on stage." His unwavering spirit and determination to return to performing have deeply resonated with his legions of devoted fans.
Beyond his musical endeavors, Manilow’s multifaceted talents are being celebrated in other arenas. In April, the American Advertising Federation will bestow upon him its prestigious President’s Award during the Advertising Hall of Fame induction ceremony. This honor recognizes his groundbreaking and iconic contributions to the advertising world early in his career. Manilow composed and/or performed memorable jingles for an array of household brands, including State Farm, Band-Aid, KFC, Pepsi, and McDonald’s. These jingles, which became ingrained in the cultural consciousness, were famously showcased in his "Very Strange Medley" on Barry Manilow/Live, his double live album that soared to No. 1 on the Billboard 200 in 1977. This recognition builds upon his previous acknowledgment in 2009, when he received an honorary Clio Award for his advertising work.
Manilow’s career is further studded with numerous accolades, cementing his status as one of music’s most revered figures. He was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2002 and is a recipient of the distinguished BMI Icon Award, celebrating his profound and lasting impact on songwriting. His trophy cabinet also includes two Primetime Emmy Awards (in 1977 and 2006), a Grammy Award (in 1979), and a special Tony Award (also in 1977), underscoring his versatility across various entertainment mediums. In 1979, he graced the Oscar stage to perform "Ready to Take a Chance Again," an Academy Award-nominated song from the film Foul Play. Rounding out his impressive list of achievements are three consecutive American Music Awards for favorite pop/rock male vocalist, a testament to his enduring popularity and connection with his audience.
The release of What a Time will be followed by an extensive series of U.S. tour dates throughout 2026 and into early 2027. Manilow has announced a long list of upcoming performances, commencing on April 13 and extending through January 21, 2027. These dates are in addition to the 45 performances scheduled as part of his ongoing residency, "Barry Manilow – The Hits Come Home!", at the International Theater at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino. Many of these touring engagements are notably billed as "The Last Concerts," adding a layer of poignant anticipation for fans eager to experience his legendary live show. For a complete and updated list of all upcoming performances, fans are encouraged to visit Manilow’s official website. What a Time represents more than just a new album; it is a declaration of artistic vitality and a celebration of a remarkable legacy that continues to inspire.