A Night of Music, Memories, and a Whole Lot of Sparkle

Last night, I got to check something off my "things I never expected I'd do" bucket list: seeing Barry Manilow live in concert, in Toronto along with my sister and cousins. Surrounded by thousands of fellow fans—many of whom were decked out in sequins, rhinestones, glittery boas, and full Fanilow flair.

It was everything I didn’t know I needed.

I wouldn’t call myself a crazed Fanilow (I don’t own a glitter jacket or have his lyrics tattooed anywhere), but I’ve been a fan for as long as I can remember. I grew up on Barry’s music. His songs were playing over the radio in my bedroom while my 15 year-old self listened intently to every lyric of “Mandy” and “Weekend in New England.” His songs had a way of speaking to every teenage girl's heart.

Barry sang about love and loss in a way that made you feel like he got it. Even when I didn’t fully understand the depth of some of those songs as a teen, I felt them. And last night, hearing them live, years later, all those feelings came rushing back in the best possible way.

From the moment the concert began, we were swept back in time. From the first note, the crowd was hooked. I must admit I was very surprised that  his voice is still strong and soulful.  But it wasn’t just about the past. Barry was funny, charming, and totally in control of the crowd. He cracked jokes and shared stories from his childhood with his grandfather.  He connected with audience in a way that made you feel like you were old friends.

It was fun to watch the true Fanilows, all decked out in their glitter and gold, dancing in the aisles, and belting out every line of every song. Even though I'm not part of that club, I enjoyed being transported in time back to my pink teenaged bedroom, where I laid on the bed for hours, listening to many of the same songs.

And even though I’ve loved Barry’s music for  four decades, seeing him live reminded me why I connected with his songs in the first place: the emotion, the storytelling, the heart he pours into every note. He’s a showman but he also seems to care about the people listening.

So no, I’m not a crazed Fanilow. But I’m a forever fan. One who grew up with Barry’s voice in the background of life, and who—last night—got the chance to sing along with that voice in real time, surrounded by family, strangers, glitter, and a whole lot of good vibes.

And you know what? I’d do it again in a heartbeat.