Texas shows postponed

[Maria Mikol]

Barry has bronchitis again!

Poor man. I bet it's all that air travel with sick people. Hope he feels better soon.

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[Brenda M]

I am so sorry he's sick again. Geez, maybe he really just needs to retire from performing. It's obviously too much for him.

I am also bummed for the fans in Texas. This isn't the first time he's had to postpone shows there.

But I'm no longer buying the whole "bronchitis" deal. I saw him in Ft Wayne the last time he had "bronchitis" and he WAS sick. But the next night in Pittsburgh he made a miraculous recovery. And he was fine in Baltimore the night after that.

And ... Bam ... Now it's back!

Bronchitis doesn't normally come and go like that, at least in the folks I've known (including me). It comes and doesn't go for awhile. It lingers. You cough for days, sometimes weeks. It doesn't bounce in and out of a body's immune system like a ping-pong ball.

I'll bet there's a lot more going on with him than we'll ever know.

But, regardless of what he has, I'm still sad he doesn't feel well. Take care of yourself, Barry.

Brenda

[KJM]

So sorry to read this morning that Barry is sick, I suspect he never really recovered from the infection he had couple of weeks ago. Watching some of the YT clips of Barry at recent concerts, I did think he looked drained, and not moving around comfortably, hope those hips are not giving him stick again, prolonged pain and discomfort weakens you, and leaves you wide open for nasty viruses.

I do feel for the folks who were due to see him this weekend, but sickness happens to the best of us, and I know people will be hugely disappointed.

For a man half his age, his recent schedule would be tough, and retirement from what he has said very much not on his to do list, but sometimes sadly what the brain tells you, does not necessarily tie in with the body status.

I hope you feel better soon Barry, please listen to your doctors and your body. You are overdue some R & R my lovely, preferably at home in PS with your family.

[vmc...@aol.com]

I agree Brenda. I feel that because he HAS suffered from bronchitis in the past, they sometimes use it as a 'catch all' excuse to cover everything from another genuine illness to poor ticket sales. I wish he would slow down a bit.
IreneH

[meshuga]

If Barry was still harboring any illness during his Baltimore show, you never would have known it during that performance. He was in great voice and put on an excellent show.

We also attended his shows this past Sunday and Monday in NJ. We left Sunday's show thinking it was one of the best we've ever seen, and then slightly downgraded it (not in a negative way) after seeing him Monday night. He was, simply put, OUTSTANDING. His voice was impeccable…rich, bold, goosebump-inducing. (And I'm not saying that as an, ""OMG, Barry is a sex-god; I named my cats Lola and Rico" type of fan. I'm saying that as someone who has deeply appreciated his talent as a musician, performer and arranger since I first saw him in concert as a little girl in the 70s.) He tore into songs like Even Now, Tryin' To Get The Feeling and Weekend in New England like it was the last time he was ever going to sing them. And he "crawled into" (as he likes to say) the lyrics of I Am Your Child and Somewhere Down The Road as if he were alone, singing to whomever was in his heart and mind at the time. His presentation of those songs was so intimate and personal we almost felt like voyeurs. It was one of the best shows we've ever seen.

Though it seems hard to believe that he got so sick in only three days, it's certainly possible. And until we have access to his medical records or speak to his physicians (neither of which will ever happen), we'll never know the real reason behind postponing shows. All we can hope is that he takes care of himself so he can continue to enjoy his work and share his passions with those who appreciate it the most.

Amy

[Brenda M]

Hmmm ... Barry was just in NYC this week...

And apparently there's some interesting Harmony-related activity happening in Atlanta this weekend.

Do you think maybe ...

Hmmm ...

Nah.

Barry wouldn't blow off Texas so he could be somewhere else.
That wouldn't be very nice.

Brenda

[vmc...@aol.com]

God I hope not Brenda. Someone on facebook heard that he had turned up at the soundcheck but couldn't carry on. The truth is anyone's guess.
IreneH

[shado...@gmail.com]

From Rob Shuter's Naughty But Nice blog.
"As Barry is sick. I'm going to Atlanta with Bruce
and his director Tony (very Copa name) to watch them
present fb.me/Qecmhol.5" 11:15 AM 18 May 13.
I saw this on facebook's home page Michelle retweeted
this.
Linda

[Sheila]

That would go against everything he's always said so I really hope not. :-(
I just don't understand why they keep his schedule so busy. I know he's a workaholic but this can't go on, surely? I dread to think how much the insurance for his shows is - it must cost a fortune.

Sheila

[marvin]

>
>
>
> Barry wouldn't blow off Texas so he could be somewhere else.
>
> That wouldn't be very nice.
>
>
>
> Brenda

Hi Brenda,
Barry is probably too sick to do the Texas shows. I highly doubt that Harmony or anything else would be the problem. The promoter of the Texas concerts could sue Barry if he cancels for any other reason but illness, so I am inclined to think that Barry has bronchitis. Marvin

[Brenda M]

I'm sure you're right, Marvin.

Not only that, but telling everyone he's sick (again) is damaging to his professional reputation ... I can't imagine he would purposely sabotage himself just so he could be somewhere else instead. That would be insane.

So... Maybe he is sick. I do think he has played the bronchitis card one time too many, so I'm still not convinced that's what's ailing him.

But ... these postponements are really becoming a problem for him. I know that I would now think twice before planning a trip to see him if it involved hotels and air travel. His fragile health just makes him too unreliable.

Poor guy. I do feel for him. Getting old truly does suck.

Brenda

[Brenda M]

P.S. just wondering ...if he were ever given "doctor's orders" to flat out stop performing altogether, I wonder if he'd do it?

[Bugnbeesmom]

Brenda - this would make me so sad if this were case! My Manilow bubble would be popped! He would not pop my perfect illusion bubble would he????

As a mother with 2 kids who are always trying to get away with something I do wonder why Rob needed to note "Since Barry is sick" he was going to Altanta with Bruce. Were they going to the Texas shows??? Was Barry planning on attempting to go to Atlanta in between last night and tonight's shows. Just curious why he would have needed to throw in that verbiage instead of just posting that he was headed to Atlanta with Bruce.

I have to say though that my parents are just a couple of years older than Barry and are and have always been in good shape. They live in Arizona and I live in California and they tire from the 7 hour drive now. So I am impressed with how much and how busy Barry is and remains.

As much as I wish he could go on indefinitely, I know one day he is going to have retire from performing.

I have tickets for the Greek and I was apprehensive before I bought them but thankfully I do not have to travel out of state to get there.

Hoping that you all still get your pictures very soon!

PS I noted that Garry tweeted he booked a zip line in Alaska - may they went zip lining this weekend!

[Brenda M]

Garry?

Zip lining?

Let's pray he doesn't hurt himself.

I have a feeling Barry will pass on that one!

[beanz]

I do recall recently that Barry said something about complaining to his manager about booking too many shows then Garry turned on the guilt trip. (I have to find that). Anyway, I think Barry should slow things down. I mean he is turning 70 and he more than earned it. Especially after all the surgeries, the heart problem, his other illnesses.

It just doesn't seem right to me to see someone his age work this hard. Work some sure, if that is what they want to do, but not this hard. It'll probably kill the poor guy in the end. He shouldn't have to work himself to death just to please others, he deserves a little something for himself.

[shado...@gmail.com]

Tell that to the fan or fans who make comments like this under Barry's
facebook post. How about Indonisa sp? In every post Barry puts up on
his facebook page there is always one fan begging for Barry to come
to them.

As for Bruce going to Atlanta. It sounds Bruce went down there for a
special preview production of Harmony that the Alliance Theatre people
get to see. Since Barry is busy with three Texas concerts Bruce took his partner Rob with him instead.
Linda

[vmc...@aol.com]

I always smile when Barry talks about 'his manager' as if he was some guy who works for a faceless management company instead of his longtime friend. I am sure Garry would not want to hurt Barry in any way. Anyway, Garry never seems to stop either. He has just been to Australia and back in the last week or so.
But I agree, he (they) should slow down.

IreneH

[Brenda M]

I don't ... For one minute ... blame Barry's manager for Barry's insane agendas.

Barry is in charge of what Barry does ...and nobody else.

I just can't understand if something tangible (like money) is driving him, or if he's simply wired to push himself to extremes? Or is he still trying to prove something to somebody?

I doubt we'll ever know the real truth. Even if Barry ever does update his autobiography, I doubt he'll put anything in there that would portray himself in a less-than-admirable light.

Brenda

[Brenda M]

Australia?

Wow ... That's a long plane flight!

Hopefully he had a chance to visit with Cathy Voss while he was there. He's a very thoughtful man, so I wouldn't be a bit surprised if he had.

Brenda

[beanz]

If Barry is complaining about too many shows and then a few days later there is a whole whack of them put out then someone is not listening - Manager. To use people who have cancer as an example to inspire Barry to work more is wrong.

I can't see why he can't do the same as the other aging singers so, put on a few shows, do these 5 date world tours every few years. Enjoy his life and his new venture - Harmony.

Barry's not a singing machine. He deserves better. At soon to be 70 years old he deserves better.

[Brenda M]

You still don't get it.

Regardless of anything Barry says in public...Barry tells Garry what to do. ALWAYS. Barry NEVER does anything unless HE wants to do it.

And, IMHO, Garry is often Barry's mouthpiece, especially when a fan makes his blood boil. (As I'm sure I frequently do).

It's SO not the other way around.

I've known Garry for forever, and Barry's welfare has always been his main concern. He really loves Barry, and I would bet my life that Garry would NEVER try to hurt him.

I think sometimes it's Barry who is Barry's worst enemy.


Brenda

[Jackie]

On May 18, 6:00 pm, Brenda M <bmesku...@aol.com> wrote:
> P.S.  just wondering ...if he were ever given "doctor's orders" to flat out stop performing altogether, I wonder if he'd do it?

Hard to tell. I wonder how many times he has performed when advised
not to. Can see him being a bit of a rebel re: dr. orders.

He certainly has had respiratory issues in the past decade or so. Not
sure if he still smokes or not, but that cannot help him if he does.

Hoping he feels better soon, and hope no relapses. A group of us
Mitchell Kernel alumni from late 70's, early 80's are meeting up from
different points of SD, MN, and NE for his show in Sioux City. :-).
Nice way to have a reunion!

Jackie

[denise....@gmail.com]

Last I heard, he and his team smoke those electronic ciggies.

[marvin]

>
>
>
> I can't see why he can't do the same as the other aging singers so, put on a few shows, do these 5 date world tours every few years. Enjoy his life and his new venture - Harmony.
>
>
>
> Barry's not a singing machine. He deserves better. At soon to be 70 years old he deserves better.

I think any true Barry fan does not want Barry to burn himself out by his many concerts on the road this year. I think Barry should do what Neil Diamond does and just do concerts every second or third year and take the time off to work on other projects (CDs, Harmony) or just go away on sabbatical. I think Neil's fans do not complain about Neil doing a mainly hits concert because he tours infrequently. I think another advantage of Barry taking off more time with less concerts per year is that fans would complain less about a mainly hits concert because he will not be doing so many concert dates. Marvin

[Brenda M]

Well ... One advantage to Barry taking more time off between shows would be the possibility of Barry significantly changing the show.

It's certainly due for a facelift.

Brenda

[beanz]

Finally someone sees what I mean.

[dcsharon]

Marvin -

You always have an opinion about what Barry should and shouldn't do
and constantly comparing Barry to other artists. I, personally, don't
care what Neil or Elton or anyone else is doing. If I want to go and
see them, I do. I don't believe the fans are "complaining" -- we
know these shows aren't for us. They are strictly for the civilians
as Barry has said several times in print. I think the frustration
comes when we know that there's more "in the trunk" he could do, but
chooses not to. I still am amazed that he's not picking one song from
the 50's CD to perform (if he has to do a cover song) only because
that CD went #1. If he wants to highlight a cover CD, why not the one
that sold the best.

Some friends and I were talking about the CSWY days -- and how many
more tickets we bought when he was doing that segment -- just on the
off chance of getting picked. If nothing else, it sold more tickets
-- and it gave a big boost of spontenanity to the show as you never
knew what you were going to get with the CSWY girls. .

Me? If he would do more events like what he did for NY Theatre Barn,
I'd be a happy girl. That event was like sitting in Barry's living
room and it was remarkable to see his passion and knowledge of the
music business come through. If he would do that for local theatres
in these bigger cities I think it would be great. I can't tell you
how proud I was to be a Barry Manilow fan at the NY Theatre Barn
event. He spoke glowingly of the fans who had been there "from the
beginning" and how much he appreciated them and the look on his face
was priceless.

I was truly moved. .

(DC) Sharon

[beanz]

I think people should stop all the what Barry should do, do, do. Go here, sing this, sing that, do this do that. I remember when Barry had his last surgery he wasn't even under anesthsia yet and TPTB were putting out all of these shows!!!

I'd rather see a well rested Barry doing less shows, keeping his health up and seeing him do what he wants and enjoys doing outside of running around show to show to show.

I don't think Marvin was comparing but just giving examples of what other senior entertainers are doing.

People ask too much of Barry.

[denise....@gmail.com]

One of Britain's big stars Cliff Richard (72) mainly only does a short series of shows every 2 years. They are always sold out as soon as the tickets go on sale, and he has a different theme to each series, so it's not the same old hits, although like Barry's fans, his fans expect to hear some of their favourites. I am surprised Barry keeps doing what he's doing. Although in our heads we might still think we are in our prime, you can't defy the calendar.

[denise....@gmail.com]

On the other hand, doing the same-old, same-old is probably easier than learning new songs or doing a complete change. I should think Barry could do his current shows in his sleep, judging from reviews I read. Same quips, same jokes, same everything. In a way I don't blame him but I thought he said he gets bored with the same old stuff. Perhaps he does new and exciting things in his private life instead, and the shows are his version of someone working in a factory and churning out the same thing night after night. I'm not having a go at all - I wouldn't be working my butt off at 70, I can assure you.

[Brenda M]

Denise ... I also think doing the same show night after night is becoming more necessary because his memory isn't as sharp as it was (is anybody's?). Changing the show much at this point is probably very risky for him.

Besides, if it's not broken, why fix it? The crowds love it and so do the critics.

So, I can see why he'd probably just want to leave well enough alone.

BTW ... speaking of memory ...This kind of made me LOL, as it's a conversation I think any of us could have with Barry one day ...

Does anybody hear watch "The Big Bang Theory"? A couple weeks ago, there was a charming episode where Bob Newhart played "Professor Proton," Sheldon's childhood idol. Sheldon is thrilled to meet the old guy and says something like, "Do you remember that autographed picture you sent me when I was a kid?"

To which Professor Proton responded, "I have to wear a bracelet with my address on it -- what does that tell you?"

Brenda

[vmc...@aol.com]

I remember seeing a recording of one of the last concerts Sinatra did. Once or twice you could see the 'idiot boards' dotted around. There were no autocues or discrete earpieces in those days. At the time, I thought what a shame. Not now - if I don't write it down......!

IreneH

[laughandlea...@gmail.com]

I saw that episode, Brenda. That show kills me! LOVE IT! It's great to see some old comedians make appearances, too. It's like comfort food for our generation. Would love to see Tim Conway do a guest spot, too.

Chris

[Brenda M]

Actually, Tim Conway just made a cameo on "Mike and Molly" last week (another great show).

I agree ... It's wonderful seeing these guys again.
Brenda

[laughandlea...@gmail.com]

I've never seen Mike and Molly, but I remember seeing "Molly" when she was on Gilmore Girls as "Suki". She's a great actress!

Chris

[meshuga]

Stating that the shows are staying the same because Barry is getting older and probably can't remember music/lyrics is small-minded, not to mention insulting to anyone in his age group or older. The man has composed and written hundreds of songs...is it really fair to expect him to remember each and every line to each and every song?

These days virtually every major act keeps their shows the same while they're on the road during a tour, changing only a song or two from show to show. He's not a guy with just a piano and a microphone; synching the sound, the lights, and the video takes a tremendous amount of work. Keep in mind that one of the reasons Barry said he liked performing at the Hilton in Vegas better than The Paris is because he could be more flexible with the show and his song selections, as the Hilton show wasn't as dependent on technology as The Paris show.

As mentioned in earlier posts, the audiences and critics have been very positive about Barry's current shows; Barry said himself he's catering to the audience and giving them the hits. His comments and quips may be commonplace to those of use who frequently attend his shows, but they're new to casual fans, and they eat it up. And it's the casual fans that fill the majority of seats at his shows.

Sure, I'd trade some of his hits for some album cuts in a show. A few years ago I would have gladly agreed to leave Even Now out for a gem like As Sure As I'm Standing Here. But the way he sings Even Now live these days is absolutely mind-blowing. The way he breathes life into every line and every note demonstrates how much his work means to him. That's one of the reasons I continue to go to his shows.

The bottom line is that Barry continues to fill theaters and arenas, which puts money in the coffers and allows him to continue to pursue his passion for music. That's what drives him and makes him happy. People will continue to spew bullshit and opinions 'forever and a day,' but only Barry can say when it's time for him to slow down.

Amy

[Maria Mikol]

Amy, I wish there was a "like" button for your post!!! So very well said!

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[Brenda M]

Amy,

When Barry was younger, he spoiled us by frequently changing his
shows.

He doesn't do that anymore.

I NEVER stated a failing memory was the reason.

I suggested that not having to remember a new routine would definitely
be a plus at Barry's age because, I'm sorry, short-term memory ...for
many people... Is compromised as we age.

This is not being "small-minded" ... It's a fact.

I think there are many reasons why Barry keeps the show the same, as
I already stated.

But I forget what they were. :-)

Brenda

[KJM]

Excellent post Amy, and absolutely agree, none of us know what goes behind the scenes, but he has always been a very driven and focused man. I do agree with Brenda on this point, that it is Barry who drives Barry no-one else, he calls the shots, end of.

I think we are all privileged and a tad spoilt by having him perform as often as he does, I just feel for him keep getting knocked flat with ruddy bronchitis.

Hope he is feeling a bit better today.

[denise....@gmail.com]

Love it! I sometimes have the "hereafter" moments - as in, what have I come in here after? I call it my senior moments.

[denise....@gmail.com]

On Monday, 20 May 2013 17:49:45 UTC+1, meshuga wrote:

Amy, I wasn't saying that I think Barry's memory is age-impaired. My thinking is that if the shows are fairly set in stone, that frees up his creative side to do the other projects like Harmony. Like I said, if someone has a day job that is very repetitive, it frees up their mind to think of more exciting things for other occasions. No disrespect meant to Barry at all. I know I wouldn't have his energy at his age, so maybe I'm just jealous.

[Brenda M]

He'll, Denise, I don't have his energy at MY age. :-)

On a side note, I am so glad Barry is admitting to turning 70 next month, because he is quite the role model for his age.

We should all look so good and be so productive at 70, right?

Brenda

[bookworm]

On Friday, May 17, 2013 4:16:12 PM UTC-7, Maria Mikol wrote:
> Barry has bronchitis again!
>
>
>
> Poor man. I bet it's all that air travel with sick people. Hope he feels better soon.

>
>
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What's that famous line from one of the 'Dirty Harry' movies? - A man's got to know his limitations! Maybe it's time for him to stop pushing himself so hard as he has nothing to prove at this point in his life because he's already done that.

He's not used to all that NY smog, exhaust and weather after living in Palm Springs for so long where the weather is hot and the air is clear. He needs to take a break from doing all these shows and concentrate on Harmony and his other projects without schlepping all over the country. People will LIVE (even though some don't think they will) if they don't see him for a while. Amazing, isn't it? I'd like to see a new CD of some of those songs he has tucked away in his drawers, as he has said. The possibilities are endless! JW

[denise....@gmail.com]

Sure thing. He is a good role model for his age. My Mum is even better at nearly 88, doing all her own gardening, housework, cooking, shopping. She makes me feel tired just telling me everything she does. When I see some of the couch-potatoes these days, I wonder how many of them will even make it to their 60s, never mind doing the sort of thing Barry is doing at nearly 70.

[Suzan]

> On the other hand, doing the same-old, same-old is probably easier than learning new songs or doing a complete change. I should think Barry could do his current shows in his sleep, judging from reviews I read. Same quips, same jokes, same everything. In a way I don't blame him but I thought he said he gets bored with the same old stuff.

Six months ago, I might have believed that he's not willing/able to completely change the show, but I don't any more. I believe the shows are this way because Barry truly believes this is what the majority of his audience wants to hear, and he's happy to give them what they want.

Back in December, at the Gift of Love concerts, it WAS a whole new show. Different songs (some never performed live before), different choreography, even some different jokes. He put together that whole new show together in just a few days, by his own admission. He proved he can completely change it up if he wants. I think this current incarnation of his show (dare we say Tour?) is exactly what Barry wants it to be.

Moreover, I think he IS enjoying doing these shows. [If he is really bored with it, he's sure doing a hell of an acting job!] Anyone who has seen him perform recently will agree that he appears to be having the time of his life. Maybe he's finally feeling relaxed enough at this stage of his career that he can fully appreciate the audience's enthusiasm and admiration?

Sure he'll slow down one day, and I don't know if it will be because of his health or if he's just ready to quit. But for now, he wouldn't be doing all these concerts if he didn't want to be there.

[Jackie]

As long as it is only the show being due for a facelift. :-)

One of the benefits of his not being in our region often. It's always
new to us.

Jackie

[Brenda M]

Good point, Jackie! "New" is relative!

Maybe Garry should focus on booking him in more cities that haven't seen him in a long while.

It could be the exact same show, but they could call it the "Barry Back At Last" tour ... Or the "Hey, Remember Me?" Tour.

Brenda

[Jackie]

Want to know last time he was in Sioux Falls / Sioux City region?
"Summer of '78" show -- the one with the clicker wheel and back in the
days of the photo ban. About 15 or 16 years ago, I think. He still
had "Can't Smile Without You" girls.

#midwestplainsstatesforgotten

Jackie