Barry Manilow Returns With First Album in 15 Years

Barry Manilow is making his long-awaited return to the studio with the announcement of What a Time, his debut album in almost 15 years. The 13-song album will drop on 5 June and represents the iconic artist’s 33rd studio album, as well as his debut collection of predominantly original compositions since 2011’s 15 Minutes. Created by Manilow working with his longtime collaborator Michael Lloyd, the record features an impressive roster of guest artists and co-writers, including Babyface, Dave Cobb, and longtime creative partners Bruce Sussman and Adrienne Anderson. The news arrives not long after Manilow had an operation to extract a malignant growth from his lungs, prompting him to postpone his final tour, which is now scheduled to start on 13 April in Belmont Park, New York.

A Significant Comeback in the Studio

The release of What a Time represents a significant milestone in Manilow’s distinguished professional journey, which has covered more than five decades. With 32 previous studio albums to his name, the acclaimed artist has positioned himself as one of the most prolific and commercially successful artists in the history of popular music. This latest album reflects his continued commitment to producing new work and collaborating with contemporary production talent, whilst preserving the emotional depth and melodic sophistication that have defined his work throughout his career. The album’s debut is especially significant given Manilow’s recent health difficulties, serving as a reflection of his resilience and resolve.

The collaborative nature of What a Time showcases Manilow’s openness to collaborating with both prominent industry names and musical associates he has worked with over many years. The participation of producer Dave Cobb, recognised for his work with country and Americana artists, implies the album may venture into fresh musical landscapes whilst remaining grounded in Manilow’s distinctive sound. Similarly, the input from Babyface—one of the most acclaimed producers and songwriters in contemporary R&B and pop—hint at refined instrumentation and modern musical sensibilities. These collaborations underscore Manilow’s growth as a performer who continues to be engaged with modern musical developments.

• First single “Sun Shine” composed by Manilow and Gary Barlow
• Features duet with Sharon “Muffy” Hendrix and Dave Koz feature
• Opening track “Once Before I Go” executive-produced by Clive Davis
• Album open for pre-ordering and pre-saving from now

Partnerships and Artistic Vision

What a Time unites an impressive roster of recording artists, reflecting Manilow’s capacity for drawing premier creative partners across multiple genres. The album’s sonic creation, directed by Manilow working with his established artistic associate Michael Lloyd, preserves a cohesive vision whilst weaving in contemporary approaches from established experts. Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds and Dave Cobb each contribute their unique sonic fingerprints to the recording, elevating the musical texture with current artistic sensibilities. This carefully curated group of contributors ensures the album blends Manilow’s enduring songwriting approach with modern production techniques that will appeal to devoted supporters and emerging listeners exploring his musical legacy.

The songwriting credits showcase a similarly considered approach to developing the album’s compositions. Longtime collaborators Bruce Sussman and Adrienne Anderson continue their partnership with Manilow, offering consistency and emotional depth throughout the record. The inclusion of Gary Barlow as collaborating writer on opening track “Sun Shine” reflects Manilow’s openness to working with artists from different musical backgrounds, whilst preserving his distinctive melodic sensibilities. Executive producer Clive Davis’s involvement with opening track “Once Before I Go” adds another layer of prestige and industry gravitas to the project, emphasising the album’s importance within Manilow’s wider creative body of work.

Notable Guest Appearances

The album showcases several captivating featured performances that enhance its affective power and musical range. Sharon “Muffy” Hendrix lends her voice to the duet “When Somebody Says Goodbye,” whilst saxophonist Dave Koz features on “Look at Me Now,” bringing instrumental polish and modern jazz sensibilities to the body of work.

• Sharon “Muffy” Hendrix feature on “When Somebody Says Goodbye”
• Dave Koz performs on “Look at Me Now” with saxophone
• Collaborations enhance emotional resonance throughout the tracklist

The Way to Healing and Tour Dates

The unveiling of “What a Time” comes at a especially significant moment in Manilow’s life, in the wake of recent health challenges that have required substantial changes to his work commitments. In early 2026, the legendary performer had an operation to extract cancerous tissue from his lung, requiring him to delay his highly anticipated arena tour dates. The diagnosis and subsequent medical intervention represented a stark reminder of mortality, yet Manilow’s resolve to resume his career has remained unwavering. His willingness to prioritise recovery over business demands reflects a mature approach to his health and longevity in the entertainment industry.

Manilow’s farewell tour, originally scheduled to commence in January 2026, has been thoughtfully postponed to accommodate his recuperation period. In February, he made the difficult decision to delay tour dates once more, acknowledging that sufficient time to recuperate was essential before returning to the rigours of performing live. The tour is now scheduled to start on 13 April at the UBS Arena in Belmont Park, New York, marking his comeback to the stage. This staged strategy to his comeback reflects both clinical responsibility and professional responsibility, enabling fans to anticipate his performances with confidence whilst ensuring Manilow can deliver the quality shows his audiences deserve.

What Supporters Can Anticipate

With “What a Time,” Manilow is delivering a project that showcases both a creative reinvention and a celebration of his sustained artistry. The 13-track album demonstrates the artist’s distinctive melodic approach whilst incorporating contemporary production techniques through partnerships with distinguished producers including Babyface and Dave Cobb. The addition of unreleased tracks alongside freshly written pieces creates a engaging musical journey that connects with both long-time fans and listeners discovering his work afresh. This album stands as his debut primarily original release in more than ten years, indicating a renewed creative vigour following years focused primarily on touring and legacy projects.

The album’s emotional landscape spans subject matter including love, resilience, and reflection, with standout moments including the first song “Once Before I Go,” executive-produced by celebrated music producer Clive Davis. The main single “Sun Shine,” written alongside Gary Barlow, sets an positive atmosphere that runs through much of the record. Special guest appearances from Sharon “Muffy” Hendrix and saxophonist Dave Koz contribute textural richness to the arrangements, whilst Manilow’s long-standing partners Bruce Sussman and Adrienne Anderson contribute essential compositional skill. Together, these facets create an album that comes across as both introspective and grand, reflecting the insight of a experienced performer contemplating a remarkable career.

Tracklist Highlights

• “Opening with Once Before I Go” launches the album with a touching romantic ballad crafted by Clive Davis
• “Sunshine” serves as the lead single, co-written with Gary Barlow and uplifting in character
• “When Somebody Says Goodbye” features a duet with Sharon “Muffy” Hendrix exploring emotional farewells
• “Look at Me Now” showcases Dave Koz’s saxophone performance, adding musical refinement throughout
• “Coming of Age” concludes the album, providing thoughtful reflection on personal growth and creative development