Barry Manilow is a true music industry icon, a singer-songwriter whose career spans over half a century. Manilow’s journey is a testament to the power of talent, determination, and reinvention, from his humble beginnings writing commercial jingles to becoming one of the best-selling recording artists ever.
Who is Barry Manilow?
Born Barry Alan Pincus on June 17, 1943, in Brooklyn, New York, Manilow comes from a diverse family background with both Jewish and Catholic roots. Raised in the Williamsburg neighborhood of Brooklyn, he displayed a keen interest in music from a young age and eventually pursued his passion at the Juilliard School of Performing Arts.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Barry Alan Pincus |
| Date of Birth | June 17, 1943 |
| Place of Birth | Brooklyn, New York |
| Age | 81 (as of 2024) |
| Height | 6 feet |
| Background | Jewish and Catholic roots |
Age and Physique
At 81 (as of 2024), Barry Manilow still maintains an impressive stage presence, standing tall at 6 feet. Despite the natural effects of aging, he continues to captivate audiences with his powerful vocals and charismatic performances.
Personal Life and Relationships
Manilow’s personal life has been the subject of much speculation. His first marriage to high school sweetheart Susan Deixler lasted just one year as he prioritized his burgeoning music career. In the later stages of his life, Manilow entered into a long-term relationship with television executive Garry Kief, and the two were finally able to marry in 2014 following the legalization of same-sex marriage in California.
Net Worth and Salary
Barry Manilow’s net worth is estimated to be a staggering $100 million, a testament to his immense commercial success. This wealth has been accumulated through various avenues, including his chart-topping albums, lucrative concert tours, and early work as a jingle writer for major brands.
While the details of his exact salary are not widely publicized, it is clear that Manilow has amassed a substantial fortune throughout his career. His ability to consistently produce hit songs and sell out arenas has made him one of the wealthiest performers in the music industry.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Estimated Net Worth | $100 million |
| Primary Income Sources | Music sales, concerts, jingles |
| Notable Jingle Works | “Like a Good Neighbor” (State Farm), “You Deserve a Break Today” (McDonald’s) |
Company Details, Investments, and Real Estate
In addition to his musical accomplishments, Manilow has made savvy real estate investments. In 1994, he listed his Bel-Air residence for $2.71 million, showcasing his financial acumen and diversified portfolio.
Professional Career
Manilow’s professional journey began in the 1960s when he met CBS director Bro Herrod and was tasked with composing a score for a musical production. This early success paved the way for his foray into commercial jingles, where he would hone his songwriting and composer skills.
During this period, Manilow created some of the most iconic jingles in advertising history, including “Like a Good Neighbor” for State Farm and “You Deserve a Break Today” for McDonald’s. While the one-time payments for these jingles were relatively modest, Manilow credits this experience as the best “music college” he could have ever imagined, teaching him the fundamentals of crafting memorable, hook-laden songs.
Breakthrough and Chart-Topping Hits
Manilow’s big break came in 1975 with the release of his hit single “Mandy,” which was included on his second album, “Barry Manilow II.” This set the stage for a string of multi-platinum albums and chart-topping hits, including “Tryin’ to Get the Feeling,” “This One’s for You,” “Even Now,” and “One Voice.”
It’s worth noting that while Manilow is an accomplished songwriter, many of his biggest hits were written by other artists, such as “I Write the Songs” by Bruce Johnston of The Beach Boys. This didn’t diminish his commercial success, as he continued to produce a steady stream of beloved pop anthems.
Collaborations and Producing
Manilow’s musical prowess extended beyond his own recordings. He also found success as a producer and collaborator. He worked extensively with Bette Midler, contributing to albums like “The Divine Miss M” and earning a Grammy nomination. He also lent his talents to Dionne Warwick, further solidifying his reputation in the industry.
Television Specials and Live Performances
Manilow’s career reached new heights through his television specials and live performances. In 1984, he embarked on a sold-out, 10-night run that grossed over $2 million at the box office, demonstrating his enduring popularity. He also starred in the 1985 television movie “Copacabana,” showcasing his versatility as an entertainer.
Legal Matters and Civic Engagement
While Manilow’s career has been essentially free of controversy, he has been involved in a few legal disputes over the years. In 1994, he filed a lawsuit against a Los Angeles radio station for an ad that he claimed was damaging his reputation. He also settled a case in 1997 with a judge who claimed that one of his concerts had caused “constant ringing” in his ears. On a more positive note, Manilow’s music has even been used to combat crime, with Australian officials blasting his tunes to disperse unruly gangs in the early 2000s.
Contact Details and Social Media
Fans can connect with Barry Manilow through his official website, barrymanilowofficial.com, and his social media channels, including Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. While he maintains a robust online presence, Manilow has largely avoided the spotlight in recent years, preferring to focus on his music and personal life.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Website | BarryManilow.com |
| @barrymanilow | |
| @barrymanilow | |
| @barrymanilowofficial |
Conclusion
Barry Manilow’s story is one of extraordinary talent, resilience, and reinvention. From his humble beginnings as a jingle writer to his status as a multi-platinum, chart-topping pop icon, Manilow’s career inspires aspiring musicians and creatives alike.
With a net worth of $100 million and a legacy that continues to endure, Manilow’s impact on the music industry is undeniable. As he enters the twilight of his career, his name remains synonymous with timeless, ear-catching melodies that have captured the hearts of audiences worldwide.
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