I’m thrilled, excited, but not in the least surprised by the news that Barry Manilow’s new, original album “15 Minutes” debuts at #7 on Billboard’s top 200 chart and at #2 on the Independent chart.
The success on the Indie charts alone speaks volumes. The world is ready for more than the tried and true of today’s offerings. There’s a lot to choose from, with easy access to hear and dissect, tossing the less than stellar aside like old news. Having a hit in today’s climate is no easy task for any material lacking quality. This album overflows with quality!
Creating and performing all original music, that’s worthy of esteemed acknowledgments is another major fete. Yet Barry Manilow, after a decade magnificently delivering the works’s of others, has stepped up to the plate in doing just that and hit a home run
“15 Minutes” is unique, timely and relevant in today’s culture. If this album doesn’t give you a new empathy in hearing news of young (and not so young) notables who fall from grace, you need to listen to it again. Based on Barry’s concept, the album chronicles and encapsulates the rise and fall from fame as experienced by many who reach a level of success they aren’t prepared to handle. Just this week a resounding nod to this subject came by way of Amy WInehouse. Ironically her past tribulations are mentioned on the album in news snippets at the close of “Winner Go Down”.
Each song is fresh, edgy and exciting. Guitar based, with a rock influence, it’s a new sound for (Barry) Manilow and shows the world another side of his tremendous, creative genius.
Barry’s voice is rich, full and powerful. His performance is indescribable in it’s magnificence. You don’t merely hear the album, you feel it. Another attribute Barry Manilow has mastered. He’s set a standard in this ability, not many - if any - are able to achieve.
Enoch Anderson’s lyrics are thought provoking and emotional in bringing to life the story. Another genius at his craft.
Credit is also deserving to all those who brought this album to life with love and dedication. Michael Lloyd who performed on and with Barry produced and arranged “15 Minutes”. Executive Producer, Garry Kief and Stiletto Entertainment; Associate Producer, Marc Hulett; Ron Spaulding, President of Fontana; the talented musicians, vocalists, engineers…
I hope this album is just the beginning of original Manilow music to come. It’s what the world needs now more than ever. And I can’t wait.