By admin 
Introduction
A legendary voice has returned with a heartfelt farewell single, reviving a decades-old classic that carries profound personal significance.
For more than half a century, Barry Manilow has penned the songs that made “the whole world sing.” And even though the 82-year-old superstar has repeatedly promised he was ready to step away from the spotlight, he’s offering fans one final gift before his last curtain call.
While in the middle of his farewell tour — and adding even more dates to it — Manilow released a brand-new single on September 23 titled “Once Before I Go.”
The song, a gentle and reflective ballad originally written by the late Peter Allen alongside Dean Pitchford, has captivated Manilow since the first moment Allen played it for him at a piano decades ago.
“I’ve always loved it, but I was too young to sing it honestly,” Manilow admitted in his interview with People.
He also shared that it was music executive Clive Davis, a longtime friend and collaborator, who convinced him that now — at this moment in his life and career — the song was finally his to sing.
“Once Before I Go” reflects on a life filled with love, memories, and meaning — a life Manilow has undeniably lived. Its official video showcases a moving montage of the entertainer’s most iconic performances, sparking an emotional response from fans who have followed him for generations.
“This song is a love letter to his fans. Love you, Barry,” one admirer wrote. “I grew up with your music. You were a huge part of my childhood. Thank you for giving us this.”
Another added: “Thank you for the memories, Barry. You and your music will remain legendary.”
The Story Behind Once Before I Go
While Peter Allen initially wrote the song for Ann-Margret — who used it for years as the closing number in her Las Vegas act — its lyrics eventually took on a far more intimate meaning.
Allen reportedly asked co-writer Dean Pitchford to reshape the words as a tribute to his partner, Gregory Connell, who also served as his lighting director. The original lines, “The air I breathe / My morning sun / You’ll be with me in years to come,” were transformed into, “You are the light that shines on me / You always were and you’ll always be” — a nod to Connell, whom Allen imagined standing behind the spotlight each time he performed the song.
Over the years, the ballad has lived many lives, including a notable rendition by Hugh Jackman in his Broadway production The Boy from Oz.
Fans eager to see Manilow before his final exit will have nine opportunities across the United States. Tickets for the last leg of his “final tour” go on sale Friday, September 26.