
Introduction
Barry Manilow’s legendary career, spanning more than seven decades and over 85 million album sales, continues to evolve in ways even he didn’t expect. Now at a point when most performers would be easing into retirement, the Grammy-winning icon is returning with new music, a heartfelt single titled “Once Before I Go,” and what he says may be his final tour in the United Kingdom.
Speaking from Palm Springs, Manilow reflected on how the decision came about. After wrapping his shows at the London Palladium, he genuinely believed he had said his final farewell to live concerts. But once he returned home, a realization hit him: one goodbye wasn’t enough. Instead of closing the chapter in a single city, he felt compelled to return and thank audiences across the UK individually. That thought soon grew into a full tour—one he insists will probably be his last, though even he admits his certainty tends to waver.
The upcoming dates will take him from Glasgow to Leeds, Liverpool, Cardiff, Birmingham, and eventually the O2 Arena in London. And if there’s one thing he knows for sure, it’s that audiences are not ready to let him go. “People just won’t let you retire,” the interviewer joked, and Manilow agreed with a smile. As long as he can still hit those high notes—especially the “high F natural,” he joked—he plans to keep performing.

His enduring connection with the UK remains one of the most meaningful parts of his career. When he first arrived in the late 1970s, he wasn’t sure anyone there even knew his name. Instead, he was met with overwhelming enthusiasm that has only grown stronger over the years. Hit after hit, his timeless songs—covered by countless artists—continue to resonate with fans across generations.
That sense of renewal extends beyond his music. In a rare glimpse into his personal life, Manilow confirmed that he is now a grandfather. His granddaughter, nearly five years old, has become a bright presence in his life. Despite having no prior experience with children, he’s fascinated watching her personality emerge—her humor, her ideas, her nonstop curiosity. “It’s fantastic,” he said warmly, noting she’s already been singing and showing musical instincts of her own.
Though Manilow has experienced health scares in the past, he remains in strong shape and committed to giving audiences everything he has. His work ethic, he admits, comes from gratitude—especially toward the UK fans who have supported him since the very beginning.

Whether or not this truly becomes his final UK tour, Manilow acknowledges the emotional truth behind the possibility. “If it really is the last time,” he said, “that makes me sad.” Still, he’s determined to embrace every moment of the journey ahead.
With new music out now and a series of emotional performances planned for next summer, Barry Manilow continues to show the world that his passion—for music, for performing, and for his fans—remains as strong as ever.
