“Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” a timeless classic originally penned by Bob Gaudio and Bob Crewe in 1967, found new life through Barry Manilow’s masterful interpretation. Manilow’s version, released on November 14, 1978, as part of his sixth studio album “Even Now” elevates the song to new heights, offering a fresh perspective that resonates deeply with listeners.
A recently resurfaced video from “The Second Barry Manilow Special,” which aired on ABC on February 24, 1978, showcases this remarkable performance. Manilow’s fingers glide across the piano keys as his velvety baritone fills the air, transforming the familiar tune into a sophisticated adult contemporary masterpiece. His arrangement, characterized by lush orchestration and emotive delivery, demonstrates why this version has become definitive for many music enthusiasts.
What sets Manilow’s cover apart is his attention to detail and emotional intelligence. His formal training at the New York College of Music and Juilliard School of Music is evident in the nuanced piano accompaniment. Manilow’s vocal interpretation brings out subtle emotions in the lyrics, revealing layers of meaning that previous versions may have overlooked. The performance strikes a delicate balance between respecting the original’s essence and infusing it with Manilow’s unique style.
The late 1960s and 1970s were a period of significant social and cultural change in America. Against the backdrop of the Civil Rights movement and the emerging counterculture, music served as a unifying force, offering solace and joy to millions. Manilow’s rendition of “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” beautifully bridges these eras, blending the optimism of the 60s with the polished production of the late 70s.
What sets Manilow’s version apart is his ability to infuse the song with his unique style while respecting its original essence. His piano accompaniment adds depth and sophistication, while his vocal delivery brings out nuances in the lyrics that may have gone unnoticed in previous renditions. It’s this attention to detail and emotional intelligence that has made Manilow’s cover the definitive version for many music enthusiasts.
The late 1960s and 1970s saw significant shifts in American music. Manilow’s rendition of “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” beautifully bridges these eras, blending the optimism of the 60s with the polished production of the late 70s. This reimagining helped introduce the song to a new generation of listeners, cementing its status as a timeless classic.
In the video, the authenticity of Manilow’s live performance is striking. Armed with nothing but a piano and his voice, he delivers a powerful reminder of music’s ability to transcend time and touch hearts. This performance of “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” is more than just a cover; it’s a celebration of the song’s enduring appeal and Manilow’s artistry.
Manilow’s version became a standout track in his extensive repertoire, contributing to an album that showcased his talent for reimagining beloved songs. The success of this interpretation speaks to Manilow’s skill in selecting and arranging material that resonates with a broad audience.
This performance of “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” encapsulates why Manilow earned the nickname “the showman of our generation.” It demonstrates his ability to take a well-known song and make it feel both familiar and fresh, inviting listeners to experience its emotion anew. Through this rendition, Manilow reminds us of music’s power to evoke nostalgia while remaining eternally relevant.
But wait, there’s more: Barry’s Timeless “Even Now” Live from Las Vegas
This captivating performance of “Even Now” showcases Barry Manilow at his finest, bringing new life to the beloved title track from his 1978 album. Filmed during his Las Vegas residency, the video captures the magic that has kept fans coming back for decades. Manilow’s voice is as rich and emotive as ever, filling the grand Vegas venue with the same heartfelt passion that first made this song a hit.
Against the glittering backdrop of the Paris Las Vegas resort, Manilow proves why he’s still considered one of the greatest showmen in the business. His connection with the audience is palpable, turning this performance of “Even Now” into a shared moment of nostalgia and musical brilliance.
A Star Rises: Manilow’s 1978 BBC Debut with “Can’t Smile Without You”
This gem from Barry Manilow’s first BBC Special in 1978 captures a pivotal moment in his career. Performing “Can’t Smile Without You,” a hit from his “Even Now” album, Manilow showcases the charm and vocal prowess that would soon win over British audiences. The intimate setting of the BBC studio allows viewers to see Manilow up close, his expressive performance style on full display as he delivers this heartwarming tune.
This performance marks the beginning of Manilow’s love affair with his UK fans. Watching him sing “Can’t Smile Without You” with such genuine warmth, it’s easy to see why his subsequent shows at the London Palladium and Royal Albert Hall sold out so quickly.
The Legacy of Manilow’s “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You”
Barry Manilow’s interpretation of “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” stands as a testament to his extraordinary ability to reimagine classic songs. His 1978 performance, captured for television, showcases not just his vocal talents but also his skills as an arranger and pianist. Manilow’s version breathed new life into the already popular song, introducing it to a new generation of listeners and cementing its place in the American songbook.
This rendition exemplifies why Manilow became such a defining voice in popular music. His attention to detail, emotional delivery, and masterful musicianship transformed a 1960s pop hit into a sophisticated adult contemporary classic. In doing so, Manilow not only paid homage to the original but also created something uniquely his own, demonstrating the timeless appeal of both the song and his artistry.
