Barry Manilow Announces New Album, Gives Health Update

The 82-year-old singer says he "looks fabulous" after recent health issues.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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Despite recent lung cancer surgery and recovery, Barry Manilow announced the release of his new album "What a Time" and thanked fans for their support. In an Instagram video, the 82-year-old singer joked about his age and recent chart success, saying "I'm 100 years old with a top 10 single." Manilow also expressed gratitude to longtime friend Clive Davis and radio stations for supporting his new single "Once Before I Go."

Why it matters

At 82 years old, Manilow's continued musical success and positive attitude after health challenges is inspiring. As one of pop music's most enduring artists, his new album release and chart performance demonstrate his ongoing relevance and connection with fans decades into his career.

The details

In the video, Manilow announced that his new single "Once Before I Go" has reached the top 10 on the Adult Contemporary chart, marking his sixth decade on the charts since his breakout hit "Mandy" in 1974. He credited Clive Davis for suggesting the song, which was written by the late Peter Allen and Dean Pitchford. Manilow also thanked radio stations for playing the song and his fans for requesting it.

  • Manilow's new album "What a Time" is set to be released soon.
  • Manilow was forced to postpone multiple shows in the last couple of months following lung cancer surgery.

The players

Barry Manilow

An 82-year-old American singer-songwriter who is known for pop hits like "Mandy" and "Copacabana." He has continued to find success on the charts decades into his career.

Clive Davis

A longtime friend and collaborator of Manilow who suggested the singer record the new single "Once Before I Go."

Peter Allen

A late Australian singer-songwriter who co-wrote the song "Once Before I Go" that Manilow recorded.

Dean Pitchford

An American songwriter best known for co-writing many of the hit songs from the movie "Footloose," including the song "Once Before I Go" that Manilow recorded.

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What they’re saying

“Well, looks like I made it, and I look fabulous, right?”

— Barry Manilow (Instagram)

“How do you like that? I'm 100 years old with a top 10 single. Like my grandmother once said, 'Next thing you know, they'll be walking on the moon!'”

— Barry Manilow (Instagram)

“It's been a long ride and since I have no patience, it's been agony. But I am getting stronger and I have great doctors and wonderful friends and family. But I am so looking forward to getting back onstage.”

— Barry Manilow (Instagram)

What’s next

Manilow plans to return to performing live once he has fully recovered from his recent health issues.

The takeaway

At 82 years old, Barry Manilow continues to defy expectations, releasing new music, charting on the adult contemporary charts, and maintaining a positive attitude despite recent health challenges. His enduring success and connection with fans demonstrates the timeless appeal of his pop songwriting and performance.