Episode Details

Barry Manilow pulls up to The Questlove Show for a rare, career-spanning conversation that begins with humble reflections on Williamsburg, Brooklyn, and ends with Hall of Fame accolades, classic jingles, and a recent victory over cancer. Ahmir and Barry trace his path from CBS mailroom kid to music director, arranger, and reluctant frontman who never saw himself as a singer. Manilow breaks down the craft of writing immortal ad hooks, the no-glam reality of the legendary Continental Baths, and why he'll only write songs as a job now. Barry, who released his first album in 15 years, What A Time last month, also opens up about imposter syndrome and working with Bette Midler, Dionne Warwick, and Ron Dante. This episode was taped in April 2026, before the passing of Clive Davis, Barry Manilow's longtime collaborator, who is mentioned throughout the conversation. Manilow is on tour now, performing in arenas across the US and continuing his record-setting Las Vegas residency.

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