By admin 
Introduction
Barry Manilow at 80: “I’m Not About to Stop!”
When Barry Manilow celebrated his 80th birthday, he did it in true Manilow fashion—on stage, surrounded by fans, music, and an energy that belied his age. The legendary singer, whose career spans over six decades and more than 85 million albums sold worldwide, spoke candidly about his life, career, and unwavering passion for music during a lively interview with Kelly on NBC.
Manilow reflected warmly on his childhood memories, including his first Christmas tree, a small aluminum foil tree with blue ornaments, gifted by his stepfather. “It was the most beautiful thing I’d ever seen,” he said, explaining how even the simplest moments can leave lasting impressions. Those early experiences, combined with a stepfather who introduced him to music via an accordion, helped shape the young artist who would one day take the world by storm.
Discussing his famous Vegas residency, Manilow recalled the surreal honor of breaking Elvis Presley’s record for the most live shows performed there. “I sang Hound Dog that day,” he laughed, recounting his playful homage to the King. Despite these incredible achievements, Manilow insists that the secret to his enduring success isn’t fame or accolades—it’s love. “I love what I do,” he says simply. “I love music, and I’m not about to stop.”
True to his playful spirit, Manilow shared humorous and heartwarming anecdotes from his career, including performing at the Continental Baths in the 1970s while accompanying Bette Midler, navigating New Year’s Eve crowds, and even responding to a career advice column in Playboy that ultimately pushed him to leave his mailroom job at CBS and pursue music full-time. “I was a desperate young guy,” he admitted, “and they told me, ‘Take the job outside and follow your musical notes.’ And I did.”
Beyond the stage, Manilow has devoted himself to philanthropy. The Manilow Music Project, which he founded 15 years ago, provides musical instruments to schools where arts programs have been cut. “I’ve seen kids play on broken-down instruments, and yet they still love it,” he says. “Music becomes their second family.”
Manilow’s 80th birthday wasn’t just a milestone—it was a testament to a life fueled by passion, generosity, and an irrepressible love for music. Whether it’s performing Christmas specials, mentoring young musicians, or sharing his personal stories, Manilow continues to remind fans worldwide that age is no barrier to pursuing what you love. And as he puts it, with characteristic humor and heart, “If you slow down, you’re going to stop. And I’m not about to stop.”