Barry Manilow Unveils Reflective New Album, "What a Time," Amidst Rescheduled Tour and Personal Resilience

HangupsMusic.com – The legendary Barry Manilow is set to captivate audiences once more with the release of his highly anticipated 33rd studio album, What a Time, scheduled for June 5. This landmark collection marks his first offering of predominantly original material in nearly fifteen years, following 2011’s 15 Minutes, and promises a deeply personal and reflective journey from the iconic songwriter and performer. Produced by Manilow himself alongside his long-standing collaborator Michael Lloyd, the 13-track LP emerges as a testament to his enduring artistry, even as the "Copacabana" singer navigates a period of personal recovery and rescheduled concert dates.

For nearly five decades, Barry Manilow has woven a distinctive tapestry across the fabric of popular music, crafting an impressive discography of chart-topping hits, Broadway scores, and beloved ballads. His career, spanning from the early 1970s, has been defined by an unparalleled ability to connect with listeners through heartfelt lyrics and soaring melodies. From "Mandy" and "I Write the Songs" to "Copacabana" and "Can’t Smile Without You," Manilow’s compositions have become anthems for generations, earning him a dedicated global fanbase. A return to original songwriting, especially after such a significant interval, signals a pivotal moment for an artist whose creative well has never truly run dry, even as he explored diverse musical avenues through themed albums and live performances in recent years. This new album is particularly noteworthy as many of his projects in the interim, such as My Dream Duets (2014), Night Songs (2014), and This Is My Town: Songs of New York (2017), focused on interpretations of classics or curated themes rather than fresh, self-penned material. What a Time thus reasserts his identity as a contemporary songwriter, ready to share new stories and emotions with the world.

The crafting of What a Time saw Manilow once again partner with Michael Lloyd, a collaboration that has yielded fruitful results in the past. Lloyd, a respected figure in the music industry with a diverse production background spanning pop, rock, and film scores, brings a nuanced understanding of Manilow’s artistic vision. Their shared history ensures that the album, while forward-looking, remains rooted in the melodic richness and emotional depth that are Manilow’s hallmarks. The album’s thirteen tracks also feature an impressive roster of guest artists and co-writers, underscoring Manilow’s continued relevance and appeal across different musical landscapes. Among the notable collaborators are R&B legend Kenneth "Babyface" Edmonds, known for his indelible contributions to contemporary R&B and pop; Grammy-winning producer Dave Cobb, celebrated for his work with artists in the Americana and country genres; and Manilow’s long-time lyrical partners, Bruce Sussman and Adrienne Anderson. The fusion of these talents promises an eclectic yet cohesive sound, blending Manilow’s classic sensibilities with fresh perspectives.

The album’s lead single, "Sun Shine," co-written by Manilow and British pop icon Gary Barlow of Take That fame, offers a vibrant glimpse into the LP’s sonic palette. Produced by Manilow, David Benson, and Greg Bartheld, the track is imbued with an uplifting energy, characteristic of Manilow’s optimistic spirit. Barlow, himself a seasoned songwriter and performer, brings a contemporary pop sensibility that harmonizes beautifully with Manilow’s melodic genius, suggesting an album that embraces both nostalgia and innovation. The accompanying music video for "Sun Shine" provides a visual narrative that reinforces the song’s positive message, resonating with themes of hope and renewal, which could very well serve as a thematic undercurrent for the entire album, given the personal journey Manilow has recently undertaken.

Further enriching the album’s narrative is its powerful opening track, "Once Before I Go," a song that has already garnered attention as a previously released single. Executive produced by the legendary industry titan Clive Davis, a figure instrumental in Manilow’s early career success and a long-time champion of his talent, the track is a testament to enduring love and reflection. Co-written by Dean Pitchford, an Academy Award-winning lyricist known for his work on Fame and Footloose, and Peter Allen, an acclaimed singer-songwriter with whom Manilow shared a deep professional and personal bond, "Once Before I Go" is poised to be an emotionally resonant opener. Its placement at the beginning of What a Time suggests a profound statement, perhaps a look back at a life well-lived, or a poignant message to his devoted fanbase. The album further features a captivating duet, "When Somebody Says Goodbye," with the soulful voice of Sharon "Muffy" Hendrix, a talented vocalist known for her extensive backing work with numerous music legends, including Manilow himself. Her rich vocal texture is expected to add a layer of emotional depth to the track. Additionally, the smooth saxophone stylings of Grammy-nominated jazz saxophonist Dave Koz elevate "Look at Me Now," promising a sophisticated and evocative musical moment. Koz’s presence is a nod to Manilow’s appreciation for instrumental artistry and his willingness to blend genres.

The announcement of What a Time arrives against a backdrop of personal challenges for Manilow. Earlier in the year, he was forced to postpone the initial dates of his extensive arena tour after undergoing surgery to remove a "cancerous spot" on his lung. Originally slated to commence his 2026 farewell tour dates in January, the health setback necessitated a period of recovery. In February, he again had to push back scheduled performances, emphasizing the need for additional time to recuperate fully before returning to the demanding schedule of live concerts. This latest leg of his extensive touring career, previously described as part of his 2026 farewell tour dates, holds particular significance for his legions of fans, who eagerly anticipate witnessing his iconic stage presence once more. Demonstrating remarkable resilience and dedication to his craft and audience, Manilow is now firmly set to kick off his rescheduled tour on April 13 at the UBS Arena in Belmont Park, New York. This return to the stage, following his health journey, imbues What a Time with an added layer of poignancy and triumph. The album could be seen as a musical reflection of his personal battles and ultimate resurgence, offering messages of hope and perseverance that resonate deeply with his life experiences.

The tracklist for What a Time offers further intriguing hints at the album’s thematic content. Beyond the aforementioned singles and collaborations, titles such as "Another Life," "Touched By an Angel," "The Chosen One," "Nobody Knows My Song," "Don’t Trouble the Water," "Nobody Told Me," and "Coming of Age" suggest a collection rich in introspection, storytelling, and perhaps even a retrospective glance at various phases of life. Given Manilow’s penchant for narrative-driven songwriting, listeners can anticipate a journey through personal reflections, observations on human connection, and perhaps even a commentary on his own legendary career. The album title itself, What a Time, evokes a sense of both wonder and contemplation, an acknowledgment of the remarkable journey he has undertaken, filled with both triumphs and tribulations. This comprehensive collection is poised to be a significant addition to his catalog, solidifying his status not just as a performer of classic hits, but as a continuously evolving artist with fresh stories to tell.

Fans eager to experience this new chapter in Barry Manilow’s illustrious career can pre-order and pre-save What a Time now, ensuring they are among the first to delve into what promises to be one of the most anticipated album releases of the year from a true musical icon. The release not only celebrates Manilow’s enduring talent but also his unwavering spirit, making What a Time more than just an album—it’s a declaration of artistic vitality and personal strength.

What A Time tracklist:

1. Once Before I Go
2. What a Time
3. Sun Shine
4. Another Life
5. Touched By an Angel
6. The Chosen One
7. One More Chance
8. Nobody Knows My Song
9. When Somebody Says Goodbye (Duet with Sharon “Muffy” Hendrix)
10. Don’t Trouble the Water
11. Look at Me Now (Featuring Dave Koz)
12. Nobody Told Me
13. Coming of Age