Barry Manilow Net Worth

Barry Manilow’s Net Worth and Career: A Deep Dive

Barry Manilow, the iconic American singer, songwriter, and producer, has captivated audiences for over half a century. With a net worth of $100 million, he’s not just a musical legend; he’s also a testament to enduring talent and shrewd career choices. This in-depth article explores Barry Manilow’s journey, from his early days writing commercial jingles to his reign as a global music superstar. We’ll delve into his early life, the pivotal moments in his career, his financial success, and even some surprising anecdotes along the way.

Early Life and Education

Born Barry Alan Pincus on June 17, 1943, in Brooklyn, New York, Manilow’s upbringing was a blend of Jewish and Catholic heritage. He grew up in the Williamsburg neighborhood, graduating from high school in 1961. His pursuit of higher education began at the City College of New York before he transferred to the New York College of Music. To fund his studies, he took a part-time job at CBS, an early indication of his future in the music industry. He later honed his skills at the Juilliard School of Performing Arts, studying Musical Theater, providing a solid foundation for his multifaceted career.

Career Beginnings: From Jingles to Bette Midler

Manilow’s professional career kicked off in 1964 when he crossed paths with Bro Herrod, a CBS director. While Herrod initially sought songs for a musical, Manilow presented an original score, which was accepted and ran for eight years. During this period, he also composed jingles for various commercials, a crucial step in his musical education. He sang on many of these jingles, which he later credited as instrumental in his success. These commercial endeavors provided invaluable experience in crafting catchy, memorable melodies, something that would become a hallmark of his songwriting style.

He initially failed to make much of an impact in the mainstream music industry, Manilow took a major step forward when he became Bette Midler’s pianist, accompanying her on albums such as “The Divine Miss M” and “Bette Midler.” This collaboration earned Barry a Grammy nomination in 1973. He also released his self-titled album in 1973 before having a breakthrough hit in 1975 entitled “Mandy.” This was included on Manilow’s second album, “Barry Manilow II.”

The Rise to Fame: Chart-Topping Hits and Albums

Manilow’s career truly soared in the mid-1970s, with a string of hits that solidified his place in music history. His breakthrough hit, “Mandy,” was a cover of a song originally titled “Brandy” and catapulted him to stardom. Subsequent hits like “Could It Be Magic,” “I Write the Songs” (though not written by him, it became synonymous with his persona), “Tryin’ to Get the Feeling Again,” “Looks Like We Made It,” and “Copacabana” became anthems for a generation. These songs, along with multi-platinum albums like “Tryin’ to Get the Feeling,” “This One’s For You,” “Even Now,” and “One Voice,” showcased Manilow’s versatility as a performer and songwriter. He has recorded 13 number-one hits and achieved 13 platinum albums, with six reaching multi-platinum status. These commercial successes culminated in over 75 million records sold worldwide, firmly establishing him as one of the most successful artists in the industry.

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Commercial Jingles and Their Impact

Before his rise to fame, Manilow honed his skills writing and singing commercial jingles. This period, though financially modest at the time, proved to be a crucial training ground. He was paid a mere $500 for writing the iconic “Like a Good Neighbor” jingle for State Farm, a fact he humorously reflects upon. Despite the low pay, he has credited this work as a formative experience, teaching him the fundamentals of crafting memorable and catchy pop songs.

Here are some of the notable commercial jingles penned by Barry Manilow:

• State Farm: “Like a Good Neighbor”
• Band-Aid: “Stuck on Band-Aid”
• KFC: “Grab a Bucket of Chicken”
• Pepsi: “Feelin’ Free”
• McDonald’s: “You Deserve a Break Today”

While he didn’t receive residuals from these jingles, the experience undoubtedly shaped his songwriting style. Manilow has stated that the discipline and constraints of jingle writing taught him how to create music that was both concise and impactful. The training proved invaluable, contributing significantly to his later success as a pop singer.

Legal Issues and Public Image

Like many public figures, Manilow has faced legal challenges. In 1994, he sued a Los Angeles radio station for an advertisement that disparaged his music. He also resolved a legal matter in 1997 by donating $5,000 to the American Tinnitus Association after a judge claimed that a Manilow concert had caused him hearing damage. These incidents shed light on the challenges of maintaining a public image while dealing with the pressures of fame and the intricacies of legal battles.

Personal Life and Relationships

Manilow’s personal life has been a source of both public interest and, at times, controversy. He was married to Susan Deixler in 1964, but the marriage lasted only a year as he prioritized his career. Later, he was in a long-term relationship with Garry Kief, a TV executive, whom he eventually married in 2014 after same-sex marriage was legalized in California. His decision to keep his relationship private for many years reflected concerns about how his sexuality might impact his career, especially given his predominantly female fan base. This highlights the challenges faced by celebrities navigating their personal lives in the public eye.

Real Estate and Investments

Manilow has made significant investments in real estate. In 1994, he listed his Bel-Air residence for $2.71 million. The property, built 25 years prior, boasted 5,000 square feet of living space, sitting on two acres of land and included a guest house, recording studio, and theater room. This exemplifies his savvy approach to managing his wealth, as he invested in properties that reflected his success.

Fighting Crime with Music: The Manilow Effect

In a rather unconventional application of his music, Manilow inadvertently assisted in crime prevention in Australia. Authorities discovered that playing his music loudly between 9 PM and midnight on weekends effectively dispersed gangs. This unexpected use of his music showcased its broad reach and influence, even beyond entertainment.

Legacy and Continued Success

Barry Manilow’s legacy is secure. He remains a beloved figure in music, continuing to perform and release new material. His impact on popular culture is undeniable, and his songs continue to resonate with audiences worldwide. Manilow’s success also extends beyond music. He has appeared on numerous television shows, including “The Oprah Winfrey Show,” and has received countless accolades for his contributions to music. His ability to adapt and evolve while staying true to his artistic vision is a testament to his enduring appeal. Manilow’s longevity and continued success underscore his enduring influence and status as a true musical icon.