Barry Manilow

Barry Manilow, born on June 17, 1943, in Brooklyn, New York, is a renowned American singer-songwriter and producer known for his string of hit songs in the 1970s and 1980s. He first gained fame with his 1974 breakout single "Mandy," which topped the charts and set the stage for his successful career. Manilow is celebrated for his catchy pop melodies and emotive ballads, with other famous hits including "Copacabana," "Can't Smile Without You," and "I Write the Songs," the latter of which ironically he did not write. Over his career, he has sold over 85 million records worldwide, making him one of the best-selling artists of all time. Manilow is also known for his work in television, having won an Emmy Award for his 1977 special, "The Barry Manilow Special." Beyond his music, he has been involved in philanthropy, particularly in music education, through his Manilow Music Project, which aims to provide musical instruments to schools. Despite his immense popularity, Manilow has often been the subject of critical debate, with some critics dismissing his work as overly sentimental, while his loyal fan base continues to celebrate his enduring appeal.