My sisters and I took our mom to see Barry Manilow for her birthday last week. It was my mom’s fifth time seeing him, but my first.
This is kind of surprising because I have been a huge fan my whole life. In fact, Barry is the first musician I can remember listening to and loving. Actually, some of my earliest memories involve Barry Manilow. At a very early age—maybe six or seven—I can remember listening to Barry Manilow albums on the Donnie & Marie record player in my bedroom. I still have some of those albums and continue to play them.
I never outgrew or tired of Barry’s music. In college, I had his CDs right next to my Violent Femmes and Indigo Girls. I remember some friends rolling their eyes at this, but I would not be shamed for my love of Barry. Other friends also shared in my love for this great musician. We bonded over his music regularly. I even had one roommate/bestie who would cut you if you spoke ill of Barry.
In my 51 years on this planet, I have never stopped returning to Barry’s music. His voice is a warm, safe place for me. I just love him.
When I got home from the concert, my husband asked, “How was Barry?” Without missing a beat, I replied, “Charming.” This was the best and most accurate way I could think to describe him. He oozed charm, class, kindness and all the good things. He was just fucking delightful.
There is just something about his way of being. He is obviously an amazing entertainer with decades of performing experience, but I was a little taken aback by how personable he was. He seemed to connect with every member of the audience. Just being in that arena with him made me ridiculously happy.
I knew the words to every song he sang, and yes, I belted them out right along with him. Many apologies to the people shooting videos around me. I know I’m the world’s worst singer, but I will not be deterred. I need this joy in my life.
Barry didn’t just sing all his hits, he told stories, made jokes, played the piano and even danced a little. Not too bad for a dude who just turned 80. He even played some video of himself singing Mandy back in the 70’s and he joined in with his younger self. It was pretty impressive to think of all the decades his career spans.
Having a career of this magnitude really speaks to his talent and musical appeal. Every age group was represented and the arena was full. I think it also speaks to the fact that he just seems to be a good human. Major props for that.
The highlight of the evening for me was when he talked about how his grandfather supported him and encouraged him to be a musician. He even played an old record his grandfather paid a quarter for him to record when he was quite young. You can hear his grandfather talking and encouraging Barry to sing. It made me sob. What a treasure for Barry to have and share with his fans.
The show flew by and was over far too soon. He closed with the fan favorite, Copacabana. I sang every word and danced my ass off. And for a few brief, but glorious moments, my name was Lola and I was a showgirl.
Angela Traver
What is this blog about? Well, it's a general blog, but it is also a very specific blog. If you get that reference, you get a gold star! I have been a public relations professional and writer of press releases for more than 20 years—primarily in the booze biz. I decided to do some writing for fun and embrace the humor that gets me through most days. Hopefully it will make you chuckle—or at least smile. I’m a certified crazy magnet, and more than a little nutty myself, so buckle up. Also, I have two vices—profanity and red wine/whiskey. You’ve been warned. It should also be noted, that I’m a HUGE Bob & Sheri fan. I’ve been a listener for more than 20 years. This opportunity is a dream come true and it may have made me cry. That being said, I cry at everything. If you are into booze, dogs, food and/or knitting, hit me up on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter (although I’m terrible at Twitter and it scares me) @kyspiritsgal. You can also find all my previous blog posts at www.kyspiritsgal.com.
