By admin 
Introduction
Music legend Barry Manilow is preparing for a heartfelt farewell tour, and fans in Jacksonville are in for a memorable experience. Speaking with News4JAX, Manilow reflected on his decades-long career and shared what audiences can expect from his final performances. Over his extraordinary career, Manilow has sold more than 85 million albums worldwide, earning him a permanent place among the most celebrated entertainers in history.
The farewell tour, which includes Jacksonville, is a chance for Manilow to say goodbye to cities he has loved performing in for decades. He recalls his first show in Jacksonville back in 1981 and his most recent performance there seven years ago, describing the city as a longtime friend. Despite the emotional weight of a farewell tour, Manilow exudes excitement about returning to Florida and connecting with fans once more.
Looking back on his career, Manilow feels he has explored nearly every musical style he has loved. From big band jazz of the 1940s to pop music that launched his career, he has embraced a variety of genres and takes pride in the diversity of his work. His commitment to music remains evident as he continues to produce new material, including a poignant single, Once Before I Go. The song, written by Manilow’s late friend Peter Allen, was produced by Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds, delivering a moving record that resonates deeply with listeners.
Beyond performing, Manilow has dedicated himself to philanthropy through the Manilow Music Project, which donates instruments to schools in need. During the farewell tour, he plans to honor outstanding music teachers by inviting them to his shows and awarding $10,000 grants to support music programs. “It’s one of my favorite moments,” he said, emphasizing the transformative power of music education and the profound impact teachers have on students.
Manilow also reflected on his celebrated residency in Las Vegas, where he shared the stage with some of the biggest names in music, further cementing his legacy. When asked which of his works he hopes fans will remember, he highlighted 2 a.m. Paradise Café, a jazz album that marked a departure from pop and demonstrated his versatility as an artist.
On a more personal note, Manilow shared that his favorite chord is any minor ninth, explaining its unique beauty and emotional depth. His love for music remains evident, and he takes great pride in the way his songs have impacted fans over the decades. “I didn’t realize this was going to happen when I started,” he said, reflecting on the profound connection he has built with listeners worldwide.
As Manilow prepares to take the stage for his farewell shows, including his highly anticipated Jacksonville performance, fans can expect a celebration of his remarkable career, heartfelt music, and moments that honor the teachers and supporters who helped shape his journey. For a career spanning five decades, Barry Manilow leaves an indelible mark on music history, and his farewell tour promises to be a poignant, unforgettable experience for all who attend.