Barry Manilow, the voice behind some of the most beloved love ballads of the 20th century, remains a fixture in music and pop culture. Born in Brooklyn in 1943, he rose from a mailroom clerk at CBS to become one of the best-selling artists of all time. With hits like “Mandy,” “Copacabana,” and “I Write the Songs,” Manilow shaped the sound of adult contemporary music for decades.
Today, at 81, he continues to perform, release new music, and engage with fans through a historic Las Vegas residency. Yet many still seek answers about his personal life, his health, and his plans for the future.
Who Is Barry Manilow’s Husband? Personal Life, Age, and Net Worth
- Barry Manilow came out publicly as gay in 2017 and married his longtime manager Garry Kief.
- His song “Mandy” was originally titled “Brandy” and became his first No. 1 hit.
- Manilow has sold over 85 million records worldwide.
- He suffered a serious health scare in 2020 (throat surgery) but has since recovered and continued performing.
- Despite his age, Manilow remains active with new music and a Las Vegas residency.
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Birth name | Barry Alan Pincus |
| Date of birth | June 17, 1943 |
| Age (as of 2025) | 81 (turning 82) |
| Spouse | Garry Kief (m. 2014) |
| Children | None |
| Net worth | $100 million (estimated) |
| Genres | Pop, soft rock, adult contemporary |
| Years active | 1967–present |
| Notable awards | 1 Grammy, 2 Emmy, Tony nominations |
| Official website | barrymanilow.com |
Is Barry Manilow Touring in 2025? What Is He Doing Now?
Barry Manilow announced a farewell tour set for 2026, with final performances in major U.S. cities. As of 2025, he continues his historic Las Vegas residency at the Westgate Resort. His show, Manilow: Las Vegas – The Hits Come Home!, has surpassed Elvis Presley’s record for the number of shows at the venue.
New Music and Broadway
In 2024, Manilow released What A Time, his first mostly original album in nearly 15 years. The album features tracks inspired by his classic hits. Additionally, his original Broadway musical Harmony (2023/2024) received acclaim for telling the story of a harmony ensemble in 1930s Germany.
Manilow underwent throat surgery in 2020 to remove a precancerous polyp. He recovered fully and has continued performing. No recent major health issues have been reported as of 2026.
Philanthropy and Advocacy
He founded the Manilow Music Project in 2008, providing musical instruments to schools. He also supports United Way, the Starlight Foundation, AIDS prevention, and the Prince’s Trust.
What Are Barry Manilow’s Most Famous Songs? The Story Behind ‘Mandy’
Barry Manilow is best known as the “King of Love Ballads.” His enduring hits include “Mandy,” “Copacabana (At the Copa),” “Can’t Smile Without You,” and “I Write the Songs.” These songs defined adult contemporary radio in the 1970s and 1980s.
The Story Behind ‘Mandy’
“Mandy” was originally released in 1974 under the title “Brandy.” The song was renamed to avoid confusion with another hit. It became Manilow’s first No. 1 single. A common myth claims the song was about a dog, but that is not true — the original lyrics were addressed to a woman.
Manilow’s version of “I Write the Songs” won the Grammy for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance in 1978, even though he did not write the song. It was actually penned by Bruce Johnston of the Beach Boys.
Other Iconic Songs
- “Copacabana” (1978) – a disco-infused story song that became a signature.
- “Can’t Smile Without You” – a tender ballad often covered.
- “Looks Like We Made It” – another No. 1 from 1977.
What Has Happened in Barry Manilow’s Life? A Timeline of Key Events
- – Born in Brooklyn, New York.
- – Began career as pianist and arranger for Bette Midler.
- – Released first hit “Mandy.”
- – “I Write the Songs” became a No. 1 hit.
- – “Copacabana” released.
- – Las Vegas residency began.
- – Married Garry Kief after a 40-year relationship.
- – Publicly came out as gay.
- – Underwent throat surgery; recovered.
- – Released new album What A Time.
- – Farewell tour announced.
What Is Known and What Remains Unclear About Barry Manilow?
| Established Information | Information That Remains Unclear |
|---|---|
| Born June 17, 1943; married Garry Kief. | Exact net worth figures vary (estimates $50M–$150M). Manilow has not officially confirmed a number. |
| Throat surgery in 2020; recovered and performing. | Future tour plans beyond 2026 are not officially announced. |
| Song “Mandy” was originally called “Brandy” and was about a woman. | Some sources incorrectly claim “Mandy” was about a dog; this is a myth. |
Why Does Barry Manilow’s Career and Personal Life Matter?
Manilow’s longevity is rare in popular music. He bridged the 1970s pop era with modern adult contemporary, and his marriage to Garry Kief after decades of secrecy reflects evolving public attitudes toward LGBTQ+ artists. The 2024 album What A Time signals an active late-career phase, while his Las Vegas residency ensures steady fan engagement. His health scare in 2020 demonstrated resilience, and his continued output — from Broadway to new recordings — keeps him relevant across generations.
Where to Find Trusted Information About Barry Manilow
“Manilow is one of the best-selling artists of all time with over 85 million records sold worldwide.”
— Wikipedia
“First New Studio Album in Nearly 15 Years, What A Time, Out June 5.”
— Official site (barrymanilow.com)
“Manilow came out as gay in 2017, saying he was ‘so sick of lying.'”
— People/Entertainment Weekly (common reference)
What Is the Final Verdict on Barry Manilow?
Barry Manilow remains a cultural icon cherished for his romantic ballads, his enduring voice, and his lifelong dedication to music and philanthropy. With a farewell tour on the horizon in 2026, fans still have opportunities to see him perform live while enjoying his recent album and Broadway work. For those wanting to explore more, check out Sam Smith – Biography, Famous Songs, and Latest News in 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions About Barry Manilow
Does Barry Manilow have children?
No, he does not have biological or adopted children.
What was Barry Manilow’s first hit?
His first No. 1 hit was “Mandy” in 1974.
Where does Barry Manilow live?
He resides primarily in Los Angeles and Palm Springs, California.
Did Barry Manilow have throat surgery?
Yes, he underwent throat surgery in 2020 to address a precancerous polyp, and his voice recovered.
Is Barry Manilow still performing in Las Vegas?
Yes, as of 2024–2025 he continues a residency at the International Theater at the Westgate Resort.
Who is Barry Manilow’s husband?
His husband is Garry Kief, his longtime manager. They married in April 2014.
How old is Barry Manilow?
He was born June 17, 1943, making him 81 in 2024 and turning 82 in 2025.
What is Barry Manilow’s net worth?
Estimates place his net worth at approximately $100 million from music sales, tours, and residencies.
What are Barry Manilow’s most famous songs?
His biggest hits include “Mandy,” “Copacabana,” “I Write the Songs,” and “Can’t Smile Without You.”
Is Barry Manilow retiring?
He has announced a farewell tour for 2026 but has not stated he is retiring from all performance.
For more on another celebrated vocalist, see Mark Feehily – Partner, Health and Westlife Future in 2025.
Freddie Harry Cooper Bennett is a staff writer for DailyPressUK.co.uk, covering UK news, politics, business and culture. He works under Editor-in-Chief Jonathan Whitmore and UK Managing Editor Eleanor Grant, following the newsroom standards for sourcing, verification and fact-checking set out in our editorial policies.