Inherent in one’s life are the songs that seem to touch us in such a way that we can easily replay them in our mind many years after we last heard them.
Recently, I have had the great opportunity of experiencing the concerts of several of the artists who were very much a part of my childhood. This includes: Fleetwood Mac, Madonna, Cher, Taylor Dayne, and Billy Ocean. Each were extremely entertaining and opened many a gate to memory lane. However, none were more poignant than last night’s concert.
The Time Warner Cable Arena in Charlotte was nearly filled to the brim with fans. It was not necessarily a “young” crowd, as the average audience member was well into their middle age--- each seasoned with musical memories of their own. Each there for the same purpose: to hear Barry Manilow.
No one left disappointed.
With a burst of energy arising from the hit song, “It’s a Miracle”, Barry took to the stage. This sparked an explosion of cheers, applause and tears that seemed unending for nearly 90 minutes.
The set list included 31 songs. Each becoming a near singalong, as the “Fan-ilows” vocalized every lyric. There is something very special about the energy which emanates from such an experience. It is very consuming, indeed. I found myself singing and swaying in unison with the rest of the crowd.
To my left, sat an enthusiast who repeatedly whispered to his date, “Come on, sing my favorite one….!” After several requests, she inquired, “Well, what is your favorite song?” “Mandy,” was his response.
Of course. That was Barry Manilow’s very first big hit. --That was 40 years ago! Wow, how time flies.
Barry did not fail. When the song “Mandy” began, the fellow fan broke out singing as if the spotlight was on him. The pure devotion of it all was wonderful.
Perhaps one of the most moving moments of the evening was when Barry requested the audience to stand and sing along to his hit, “Can’t Smile Without You”. Sitting near me was a young lady with special needs. She was sitting in a wheelchair. When the song began, she motioned for those sitting next to her to help her stand. Each taking an arm and shoulder, they raised her up so that she, too, could be a part of the entire experience. Although she was unable to sing along, she stood with a wide smile upon her face. I, too, could only smile.
The evening concluded with the infamous, “Copacabana’’. The audience went wild as a giant mirror ball twirled above and neon confetti showered the arena. My eyes hopped about as I watched nearly the entire crowd dance in their own way to this classic.
Barry Manilow is truly an amazing artist. Although the concert was entitled, “One Last Time”, I believe his songs will replay in many of our minds for years to come. Not only was I entertained, I was most honored to be there.
This was a Moment in America.
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