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Introduction
Barry Manilow Reflects on His Legacy, New Music, and His Emotional Farewell to Jacksonville
Music legend Barry Manilow—one of the most successful entertainers in history with more than 85 million albums sold worldwide—sat down with News4JAX to discuss his upcoming farewell performance in Jacksonville. Warm, reflective, and characteristically humorous, Manilow opened up about the emotions behind his final tour, his new music, and the impact he’s tried to make both on and off the stage.
Although he laughs about how somber the phrase “farewell tour” sounds, Manilow admits it is indeed the truth. He has been traveling across the country, saying goodbye to cities that have meant the most to him over the past five decades. Jacksonville is one of those places. Glancing at his “cheat sheet,” he noted that his first performance in the city was 44 years ago in 1981, and his most recent was seven years ago. “We’re old friends,” he said with a smile.
When asked whether he feels he has said everything he wants to say musically, Manilow paused thoughtfully. Over the course of his career, he has explored nearly every genre he has ever loved—from 1940s big band jazz to the pop sound that first launched him into stardom. “I would have to dig deep to find another style I haven’t touched,” he reflected. He remains proud of the musical range he’s embraced throughout the decades.
Manilow also spoke about his newest single, “Once Before I Go,” written by his late friend Peter Allen. Allen shared the song with him many years ago, and it resurfaced recently when industry titan Clive Davis called and encouraged him to record it. Because Manilow was on the road, he brought in producer Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds to shape the track. The result, he says, is “a great-sounding record” that is deeply moving. “I think I even sound good on it,” he joked.
Beyond performing, Manilow continues to make a significant impact through the Manilow Music Project, which provides new instruments to schools in need. This year, he expanded the initiative to honor music teachers. In each city on the tour, students nominate their favorite teacher, who is then celebrated onstage and awarded $10,000 for new instruments. “It’s one of my favorite moments of the show,” he said. “To see thousands of people cheering for a music teacher—it’s beautiful.”
Reflecting on his long-running residency in Las Vegas and the career-defining projects that shaped him, Manilow highlighted his jazz album “2 A.M. Paradise Café,” which he calls a turning point. Working with Mel Tormé, Sarah Vaughan, and world-class jazz musicians was, he said, “a dream come true.”
Perhaps the most touching moment of the conversation came as Manilow reflected on his impact. He admitted he never imagined his music would change lives. But as letters poured in and fans approached him on the street, he realized the responsibility he carried. “From that moment on, I took my job real seriously,” he said.
As Barry Manilow prepares to return to Jacksonville one last time, fans can expect not only the timeless hits they love, but also a heartfelt celebration of a career that has touched millions.