I was more excited than usual attending Barry Manilow’s show last Friday at the Paris Hotel in Las Vegas; because I knew he’d added the opening song from his new original album “15 Minutes”. Because of that excitement and because the album is at the top of every-one’s mind, I’m going to start with that portion of the show.
I love “15 Minutes” on the album, enjoyed Barry’s performance of it on QVC and Leno, but seeing him bring it to life on his stage, exceeded every expectation. Saying it was phenomenal seems such an understatement.
Sharing the outline of the album’s story, Barry looks proud, joyous and hopeful, it’s part of him of he’s putting out there. Like a parent introducing their child. Yet he’s not boastful, in fact there’s a hint of trepidation. He just wants us to “get” it, appreciate it for how good it is, yet he doesn’t say that, he leaves it for our own dissection. I and others who have connected to the album and love it, want to boast for him, yell to the people; listen well, ‘cause this is really spectacular.
With just a mere change in lighting and a few neon signs the stage was transformed from sophisticated splendor to capture the feeling of a neighborhood bar. A place an unknown comes to strut his stuff, in the hope someone there might get him a step closer to the fame he craves.
You imagine the few musicians on stage (comprised of Barry’s own talented band) playing late in the evening, after work, in the somewhat dreary place we’ve been transported to. Perhaps the music makes them forget the day jobs that dull their spirit. As melancholy guitar and harmonica play, Barry steps forward from the darkness, looking more youthful and vibrant than usual, in black jacket with leather sleeves and trim.
At first he and the music are plaintiff, begging fate and who’ll ever listen; “don’t let me be an untold story”. But then powerful, demanding passion fills his voice with audacity. He knows he’s got something good that needs to be heard. He’s got attitude now. Nothing will stop him; he’ll “sell his guts for glory” Through the authenticity of his delivery, it’s no longer super-star Barry Manilow on stage, he’s the character. Moving to the music, rocking out with an air guitar, living the emotion, Barry’s become “the unknown name” who’s “amazing story” will be told, if he can just have “15 Minutes”!
By the songs end, without realizing, I’d moved to the edge of my seat in anticipation, wondering and hoping the guys dream will come true. Like the tension that builds when watching a movie, even if you know it’s ending. From front row I couldn’t see the audience reaction, but I heard the applause, shouts, whistles, it’s probably safe to say they got it and loved it.
Still engrossed, I didn’t notice a piano enter the stage. Do I have to tell you this segment is so good, your attention is riveted? . Barry took his place at the keys, his demeanor changed from the characters tough determination of moments before to tender, gentleness, crooning “Bring On Tomorrow” to his sleeping love. He’s anxious to tell her their dream’s come true, he got his break; “have I got news, our ship’s in the harbor, the street’s turnin’ gold”.
He told us he’ll do anything to make it, but it’s clear as Barry stands, now giving intense power to the lyrics, losing the one he loves, isn’t a considerable option for the character; “we’ll live it together, ‘cause you are the one”. I imagine his partner’s joy, and perhaps because I know the story, I’m suddenly teary hearing “without you it’s nothin’, why else would I climb, together forever heart’s beating in time”.
This was my third time hearing “Bring On Tomorrow” live at the Paris, each time was gorgeous, but Friday it was new again. Barry filled the song with more emotion than I remembered. Maybe it held more meaning because now it’s an intricate part of the album, with subtle, yet poignant reminders playing as the story unfold.
Applause and audience appreciation fills the theatre, the crowd loved every second of the performance. Some might have come with an ear for the classics they’re used to, but this new music, the songs on their way to classics, have captivated them. I wish Barry could hear the reaction as we leave at shows end. The “wows! The people who say “I always liked him, but I had no idea his voice was so powerful”. The “who knew he’s still writing music, I have to get that new album”. And the guys there because of a wife or girlfriend, now smiling, blown away as the rest of us who already knew what they just discovered.
I wish I could have hit re-wind to hear and see it all over again, it was that impressive. The entire show was phenomenal, but that segment was in and of itself was worth the cost of admission. I hope one day more songs from “15 Minutes” is added. I have no doubt every person who hears it, will fall in love with it immediately. It never ceases to amaze me, that Barry consistently raises his bar of excellence, and tops it. Is there any wonder why I (and so many others) keep going back for more.
Back to the beginning…
The second Barry enters the stage, before a single note is heard, there’s an aura about him you feel. Not from the lights, and nothing he does purposely, just something genuine shines from within. You know instantly, you’re about to witness something wonderful, that won’t soon be forgotten.
As “Could It Be Magic” began, Barry knew there were issues with his ear monitors. Dealing as best he could through a few songs, it was soon obvious to him, something beyond his control needed to be corrected. Normally, I wouldn’t mention the incident, as it had no affect on the show or what we’d been enjoying. But I want to compliment Barry for once again being a consummate professional, and more importantly dignified gentleman. He had no moments of irritation as some might. He didn’t demean, embarrass or blame anyone or anything that might have been responsible. In fact, quite the opposite, he used his quick wit to make it an enjoyably light hearted part of the show. Things happen in the world of live entertainment, so be it. Within minutes all was taken care of, the show continued in perfection with Barry giving us 110%, as always.
I love the subtle lyric changes to certain songs. You might not notice if you haven’t seen it before, but they’re there. I’m taking the liberty of guessing it’s his way of showing appreciation to his loyal fans. It certainly seems like something he would do, just because, with no self promotion or fanfare.
“Even Now”, sets Barry in a class by himself. The only way to describe the performance is, magnificent perfection. His expression looks as if he’s visiting a place deep inside filled with boundless emotion, which we in turn, feel in every word. Reaching the end, he walks further back on the stage, then turns to deliver a note so powerful, you can’t imagine he’s got anything left to give, but he does, and digs deeper to give us one more. No matter how many times I see him do this, I’ll always hold my breath. I’m awe struck he doesn’t need more than a seconds breath, before moving on. It’s in moments like this you know you’re in the presence of extraordinary.
The “baby” Barry segment is so touching and adorable, the audience “ahhhs” come up in unison. You can’t help but smile, seeing Barry’s grin as he listens with the rest of us. Now when I hear Nat King Cole’s rendition of “Nature Boy”, I think he must be looking down with pride knowing the inspiration it was for that little boy so many years ago.
“I Am Your Child” got my personal ball of emotion rolling. Friday was my middle sons 17th birthday. No, I didn’t leave him to attend the show, he’d gone home, after a month long visit with me, to his other home with his Dad in Ohio. I wanted him to stay, but “if you love something set it free… “, he wanted to celebrate with friends. I remembered the curly headed baby he was, the young man he is. As Barry sang, “Whatever I do, you taught me to do”. I thought of the head-butting we often get into, the times his strong will makes me want to break him like a wild stallion. In a way he’s so like me. Not the me I was when insecurity wouldn’t allow exploration of who I am. But the me I am now, insecurity’s still there, but now I’m determined to see past it, in search of what might be. I’m happy perhaps I’ve shown him how to do this early, not wait until later.
And emotion continued with “This One’s For You”. I love the song, but normally it doesn’t get to me, however it seemed Barry was performing it from a different place in his memory. I love the far-away look he gets, as if he’s conjuring a memory that means the world to him. Or maybe it was my perception, feeling it from my own place. Earlier in the week, I’d spoken with my ex-husband for the first time in months. I was tense, but the conversation was surprisingly pleasant reminding of others from a very long time ago. I’d pushed away wondering where those times had gone. But hearing the verse “for all the love we once knew” and “things that used to be and I wonder every night if you might just miss me too” brought it all back. Again, Barry’s innate ability to make me feel was at work. Sometimes it’s therapeutic for a catharsis to bring emotion to the surface, so to deal with it and move on. that’s exactly what the song was for me. The music of Manilow is the most delightful therapy I can think of!
Needless to say, but I will anyway, the show continues in high energy. There’s so much going on through his talent and those with him, yet it’s difficult to not just watch Barry as he fills the stage with energy that’s palpable.
Barry has always been exuberant, full of energy with a youthfulness that surpasses his years. I love when people say “he’s what early fifty’s?”. But since the release of “15 Minutes” the happiness and bounce is more present. His voice gets stronger, purer and down right better each time I hear him. With the release of his original work I think his getting back to the creativity in his soul has been a rejuvenation and I couldn’t be more pleased for him and grateful for those of us who are fortunate to witness it.
While showing the brief clip from years ago, when Clive Davis introduced a very young Barry in his first American television appearance, back when he was just becoming known from London, to Hong Kong and Brazil, it struck me, that nearly 40 years later, history’s repeating itself. News the day before told us “15 Minutes” had hit number one on the Internet charts. Again, Barry’s taking the world by storm, only this time it’s totally by way of his original talent as a musician, song writer and performer.
There’s touching poignancy watching Barry in duet with his young self singing Mandy. On the screen, his eyes and voice reflect youthful innocence. Though he never planned to be a performer who’s longevity would give him the title of legend. Back then, he was much like the character he’s just written about on the new album. He didn’t know then what was to come, or the fact his fifteen minutes would evolve into millions of minutes. But now, as he sings Mandy, though in the same key, it’s different. His eyes and voice reflect the depth of emotion for all he’s lived and seen. The ups, downs and everything in between that has come on his own personal journey of fame. A road he travels well, while maintaining unwavering dignity and self-respect. I truly believe his gift of making us feel deeply the moments of our own lives, comes from the genuineness in that for him it’s always been about the music and not how bright his place in the spotlight would shine.
Copacabana is fun, the audience stands to join the party, with Barry looking gorgeous in white tie and tails. Man the guy is a perfect match for formal attire! He stands at the back of the stage, waving goodbye, blowing kisses, putting his hand to his heart in a gesture showing his love and gratitude. I hope he feels the love and appreciation we’re sending to him. I know applause is the only way we can show it, but I wish, just once, we could all shout thank you to him, for doing what he does so well.
The curtain lowers, strangers talk to each other, every-one’s smiling, no one becomes angry if you step in front of them or accidentally bump them. There’s a happy camaraderie from the ninety-minutes we just shared. Wouldn’t it be great to keep the feeling going once we step outside?
“Everything’s Gonna Be Alright”, the final cut from “15 Minutes” plays, filling the theater with an upbeat sound. I’m singing along, but not loud, don’t want to destroy the song as my voice can:) Somehow I believe everything will be alright, the memory of the happy mood I’m in will keep me going, no matter what life tosses at me. And when it starts to wane, I know where to go for a refill; Barry Manilow’s show, time and time again!
Thank you Barry for another phenomenal show.