By admin 
Introduction
Barry Manilow joined News4JAX for a special interview, introduced as one of the most celebrated entertainers in history with more than 85 million albums sold worldwide. He thanked host Caleb for having him.
The conversation began with Manilow’s upcoming farewell tour, which includes a stop in Jacksonville this January. He admitted that calling it a “farewell tour” feels a little sad, but it’s true—he’s been traveling the country to say goodbye to cities he’s loved throughout his career, and Jacksonville is one of them. Checking his notes, he pointed out that his first performance there was in 1981—44 years ago—and the most recent one was seven years back. “We’re old friends,” he said.
Caleb mentioned how many longtime fans know Manilow’s songs by heart. He then asked whether Manilow feels he has said everything he wanted to say musically. Manilow reflected on the many musical styles he has explored over the years—from 1940s big band jazz to the pop music that launched his career. He said he would have to think hard to find a style he hasn’t touched and that he’s proud of the wide range of music he’s made.
The interview turned to his new single, Once Before I Go. Manilow explained that he first heard the song decades ago from his late friend Peter Allen, who wrote it. He loved it back then but never considered recording it until Clive Davis called him out of the blue and suggested he should. Unable to produce it himself while touring, he enlisted Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds, who created what Manilow described as a beautiful, emotional record. “I even think I sound good on it,” he joked.
They then discussed the Manilow Music Project, which has been providing new instruments to schools for years—especially those struggling to maintain music programs. On this tour, they decided to also honor teachers. In every city, local students vote for their favorite music teacher. The winner and their family attend the concert, where Manilow recognizes them from the stage. He explained that thousands of fans cheering for a music teacher is one of the most moving parts of each show. Along with the tribute, the teacher receives $10,000 to purchase more instruments for their school. Manilow stressed how important music teachers are, saying he wouldn’t have become who he is without his own.
Caleb then asked about Manilow’s record-breaking residency at the Westgate in Las Vegas. Manilow said he feels fortunate to be performing in a city filled with extraordinary artists and is proud to be among those chosen to headline.
As the interview neared its end, Caleb asked whether there was a particular song or album Manilow hoped people would remember him by. Manilow pointed to 2 a.m. Paradise Café, a jazz-inspired album that featured legendary performers like Mel Tormé and Sarah Vaughan. Creating that project had been a dream come true, and it marked a turning point in his career—even critics who had dismissed him before began to take notice.
Caleb followed up with a personal question: “What’s your favorite chord?” Manilow laughed and said anything with a minor ninth. When Caleb revealed he plays guitar and piano, Manilow encouraged him to try it out—“You’ll understand why I love it.”
Finally, Caleb asked what it means to have impacted fans over so many decades. Manilow admitted he didn’t expect his music to have such a profound effect on people. That changed when letters began arriving and strangers started sharing personal stories with him. He realized then that what he was doing truly mattered—and from that moment on, he took his work very seriously.
As they wrapped up, Manilow thanked Caleb for the thoughtful questions, saying he was glad they covered everything. Caleb responded that it was an honor to speak with him, and the interview concluded with warm goodbyes.