The phenomenal depth of Barry Manilow’s talents is once again showcased in his latest project called “They Write the Songs.” During this ten-week program, Barry “gives a songwriter’s insight into the art and craft of songwriting” while sharing the biographies of ten beloved composers from the Great American Songbook covering the past sixty years.
The series begins with fascinating, insightful, and little-known facts and stories about legendary brothers George and Ira Gershwin. Who knew Mr. Gershwin was a wanna-be bad boy, giving his parents fits at a young age? (Gives me hope for some kids I know well.)
Within the hour, we’re also treated to rarely-heard recordings via instrumentals and voice by some of music’s greatest legends: Ethel Merman, Judy Garland, Frank Sinatra, Al Jolson, Billie Holiday, and many more. Tonight we heard an absolutely gorgeous rendition of “Someone to Watch Over Me” by Amy Winehouse and two beautiful Frank Sinatra duets: one with Judy Garland and another with Barbra Streisand.
Barry’s passion for music is paramount in his presentation. I’d bet heavily that the research for this project was an exciting labor of love for him. Barry’s personality and charisma add elegance; his easy wit and delightful laugh blend perfectly in telling many humorous anecdotes; his unique and unmistakable voice—I always say, the only thing that compares to hearing Barry sing is hearing him speak—makes the program thoroughly enjoyable. It could have gone on hours longer and I would have remained enthralled.
I’d be remiss not to mention that from time to time, Barry sings snippets of these glorious songs himself at the piano. For that alone, I could listen all night!
Barry’s empathy for the Gershwins is palpable as he reads harsh and cruel reviews given years ago about some of the most beautiful music we’ll ever be blessed to hear—classic music we recognize at first note that will go on for generations and generations to come, never losing its quality or appeal.
Listening to the broadcast, I remembered one of my favorite movies which I’ve not seen in ages. Rhapsody in Blue, the biography of George Gershwin introduced to me by my music-loving Mom (who had a mad crush on leading man Robert Alda). The piano performances by pianist Oscar Levant are incredible.
In closing the program, Barry told us the story of Mr. Gershwin’s tragic and untimely death and the story behind “Our Love is Here to Stay,” which was unfinished at the time of his passing, mentioning Oscar Levant who was instrumental in its creation.
Barry recorded “Our Love is Here to Stay” for his Grammy-nominated album, The Greatest Love Songs of All Time, and performs it in his show at the Paris in Las Vegas. He played his rendition in a final tribute to George Gershwin. I’m sure Gershwin would be proud of this version, as it bears every bit of Manilow genius.
Hearing the song, picturing him singing it live and thinking of what he’d just shared, I was the teary heap my kids have grown accustomed to. What can I say, even in narration, Barry Manilow has the indescribable and unsurpassed ability to make me feel!
We know Barry is the consummate musician and entertainer; we saw his ability to act in his role as Tony in the movie Copacabana. With this series, Barry can add another credit to his long list of accomplishments: educator. If the show biz thing doesn’t work out, he could easily have a whole new career! Is there nothing he can’t do?
Next week on “They Write the Songs,” Barry will “celebrate the music of Irving Berlin.” If you like music, especially music we don’t hear often enough any more, be sure to tune in. You’ll be missing something very special if you don’t.
Bravo and thanks to Barry Manilow for a fabulous and most enjoyable program.
janetfauret
I wrote to you Helen saying that as a teacher myself ( and not a bad one according to my peers!) I was struck by Barry’s talents as a teacher.A good teacher conveys a passion, inspires his “students” thanks to his own enthusiasm. I was impressed ,but not surprised, at the extent of Barry’s knowledge and the ease with which he communicated with his listeners. He is
a natural!I ‘m so looking forward to next Tuesday’s show!