Barry Manilow, the iconic singer and songwriter, is navigating a challenging journey toward recovery following a stage 1 lung cancer diagnosis last November. Initially set to commence his farewell arena tour in January, the 82-year-old star has had to postpone his performances as he focuses on regaining his strength and voice.
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Manilow recently shared his situation in an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, revealing that he has undergone significant treatment, including a lobectomy that involved the removal of a lobe from his left lung. This major procedure greatly impacted his physical stamina, and he has since dropped to 128 pounds. He is currently working diligently to regain his weight and fitness, performing daily workouts and treadmill sessions in hopes of returning to the stage.
“I’m still waiting for the strength that I lost to come back,” he explained. Manilow expressed uncertainty about whether he would be able to perform at the same level as before, stating, “I’m not even sure I can go to the next level yet.” His body, he confessed, is currently dictating his limitations, which he is learning to navigate as he heals.
The removal of a lung lobe has also had implications for Manilow’s signature low-tenor voice. Following his surgery, he had to reschedule multiple performance dates, and while he hopes to resume his tour on April 12, his vocal ability remains a concern. “The shows that I do are full of energy, and unless you’re in top-notch shape, you can’t make it through 90 minutes,” he stated, emphasising the physical demands of his performances.
In the weeks following his surgery, Manilow found rehearsing for his upcoming concerts challenging. His initial attempts left him struggling to complete even the first song. However, in a promising development, he noted that he was eventually able to manage much of his setlist as the tour date approached.
To aid in his recovery, he has incorporated vocal exercises and breathing lessons into his routine. “I have to learn how to breathe again. Isn’t that crazy? It’s beyond frustrating,” he said, highlighting the emotional toll that this journey has taken on him. Despite the hardship, he remains hopeful that he can return to the stage and do what he loves most.
Support has steadily flowed in from his husband and manager, Garry Kief, as well as from his devoted fanbase, affectionately dubbed the “Fanilows.” Manilow expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming messages of encouragement he received after announcing his diagnosis, stating, “I had no idea that there were that many people out there that even knew I was alive.” These heartfelt notes have provided him with comfort during what was otherwise a devastating time.
While working towards recovery, Manilow is simultaneously preparing for the release of his 33rd studio album, “What a Time,” which is set to be available on June 5. The new record features the single “Once Before I Go,” a moving ballad that showcases his enduring talent and emotional depth. He explained that the song, which he initially heard years ago, resonated with him deeply and that he was encouraged to record it by his friend, Clive Davis.
Reflecting on his long and illustrious career, Manilow expressed a sense of pride in achieving a remarkable milestone: being the only artist to have an adult contemporary hit across six consecutive decades. The longevity of his success is a testament to his dedication to his craft and his ability to connect with audiences through his music.
As he continues on his road to recovery, Barry Manilow remains steadfast in his determination to return to the stage. “We’ll see if I can make it back,” he stated, underscoring a sense of hope intertwined with resilience. His journey is not merely about his physical health but also about his enduring passion for music and connection with his fans, who have stood by him through thick and thin.