Barry Manilow is set to perform his final concert in Oakland on Friday, July 18, 2025, at the Oakland Arena. This event is part of his farewell tour, aptly titled “MANILOW: The Last Concerts,” marking his last performance in the city. I personally will be attending this concert!
Fans can expect a nostalgic evening featuring timeless hits like “Mandy,” “Copacabana,” and “Can’t Smile Without You.” Given the significance of this farewell tour, tickets are expected to sell quickly. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the Oakland Arena’s official event page.
Despite concluding his touring career, Manilow will continue his residency at the Westgate Resort & Casino in Las Vegas, with performances scheduled through December. Don’t miss this chance to see Barry Manilow live in Oakland for one final, unforgettable night.
Rise to Fame
Barry Manilow is a celebrated American singer-songwriter, arranger, and producer whose career spans over five decades. Known for his dramatic ballads and easy-listening pop style, Manilow has become a household name with a loyal fan base around the world.
Barry Manilow got his big break as a musical director and pianist for Bette Midler in the early 1970s. He produced her first two albums, both critically acclaimed, and gained industry recognition. Barry Manilow’s rise to fame is a classic story of talent, perseverance, and perfect timing. His journey from a Brooklyn kid to an international superstar is deeply rooted in his ability to blend pop melodies with theatrical flair and genuine emotion.
Early Musical Foundations
Barry Manilow (born Barry Alan Pincus in 1943) grew up in a modest Brooklyn household. From an early age, he showed a deep interest in music, learning piano and later studying at the Juilliard School of Music. His early gigs included writing commercial jingles, catchy tunes for brands like Band-Aid, State Farm, and McDonald’s. which honed his skills in creating memorable melodies and tight compositions.
Breakthrough with Bette Midler
Manilow’s true break came in the early 1970s when he became Bette Midler’s musical director, pianist, and producer. He arranged and co-produced her first two albums, which received widespread acclaim. Performing with Midler at venues like the Continental Baths introduced Manilow to a wider audience and established him as a musical force behind the scenes.
Solo Success and “Mandy”
In 1973, Manilow released his self-titled debut album, but it wasn’t until his second album, Barry Manilow II (1974), that he shot to stardom. The single “Mandy” (originally titled “Brandy” by Scott English) became his first No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 and changed everything.
Solo Career Highlights
His debut album was released in 1973, but he gained massive fame with his second album, Barry Manilow II (1974), featuring the smash hit “Mandy. He followed with an impressive streak of hits, including:
“Copacabana (At the Copa)”
“Could It Be Magic”
“Can’t Smile Without You”
“Weekend in New England”
“I Write the Songs” (ironically, he did not write this one)
Achievements
More than 85 million records sold worldwide. Over 50 Top 40 hits. Multiple Grammy, Emmy, and Tony Award nominations. A special Tony Award for his contributions to the Broadway stage. Inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2002.
Later Career and Legacy
Manilow continued to tour and release music into the 2000s and 2010s, also performing long-term residencies in Las Vegas. Known for his charisma and emotional connection with audiences. In 2017, he publicly came out as gay and expressed joy at the acceptance he received from fans. “MANILOW: The Last Concerts” (2025)
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As of 2025, Barry is conducting his farewell tour, wrapping up a storied career with concerts across the U.S., including a final performance in Oakland, CA on July 18, which I will be attending
Barry Manilow’s legacy is that of a performer who shaped the sound of 1970s and 1980s pop music, offering heartfelt songs that resonate across generations.
