For some, it might be a secret indulgence, but for me, being a Fanilow is a badge of honor. Barry Manilow’s music isn’t just background noise; it’s been a profound and uplifting soundtrack to my life.
Through the Rain and the Tears: Music as a Family Bond
My journey with Barry’s melodies began during a difficult time. I was just eight when we lost my dad to lung cancer, leaving my mom to raise my infant brother, Adam, and me alone. Money was tight, and Mom worked tirelessly, yet her spirit remained unbroken. She instilled in us the importance of resilience and hard work, values that Barry’s music would later echo in our home.
As Barry’s career soared, his records became a constant presence in our lives. Singing along to his songs with Mom and Adam became more than just a pastime; it was our way of connecting, a shared language of hope and comfort during challenging times. It was a bond forged in melody that endures to this day.
Barry Manilow Selfie with Fans
Could It Be Magic? Finding Love and Harmony
Years later, a new chapter began when Mom met and married Dante Greco. Dante became an incredible father figure, adopting Adam and me and enriching our lives in countless ways. He was a banker in the booming 70s, and evenings often meant Mom and Dante were out, leaving me in charge of Adam. Babysitting wasn’t a chore when Barry Manilow was playing. Perfecting Kraft Mac and Cheese for Adam (still a favorite!) and filling the house with Barry’s voice made those evenings special. Adam’s love for Barry grew so strong that he and his wife Wendy chose “Weekend in New England” for their first wedding dance – a testament to the music that permeated our family life.
Life took another turn when Dante passed away in 1997. Once again, Barry’s songs offered solace, helping us navigate through grief and find strength in familiar tunes.
Barry Manilow Performing Live in Front of an Audience
Can’t Smile Without You: A Concert Ritual Begins
My first live Barry experience was at Ravinia in 1975. It wasn’t just a concert; it was a revelation. From that moment on, attending Barry Manilow concerts became a family tradition. Mom, Adam, and I have lost count, but together we’ve probably been to nearly 100 shows! The shared joy of these concerts cemented our bond and created a treasure trove of memories.
Even in college, my Fanilow spirit shone. My roommate and I bonded over Barry, our dorm room constantly filled with his music. There’s an unspoken connection among Barry fans, a shared appreciation for his artistry and the emotions his music evokes.
Barry Manilow in Concert July 2024
It’s a Miracle: Scoring Platinum and Meeting a Legend
When Barry announced his “The Last Concerts” tour in 2024, there was no question – we had to be there. Adam, ever the tech-savvy brother, discovered the platinum packages: first-row seats and a meet-and-greet with Barry himself. Ticket sale day was filled with anticipation, but Adam’s online skills prevailed. He secured three platinum tickets! We decided to keep it a surprise for Mom, telling her we just had great seats and early access. Adam even had a custom “Bess Loves Barry” shirt made for her.
Barry Manilow Platinum Package Meet and Greet
This One’s For You: An Unforgettable Encounter
Concert day arrived, and we entered through a special VIP entrance, greeted by Barry’s welcoming team. Champagne flowed in a private room, Barry’s music softly playing in the background. Mom was still blissfully unaware of the surprise awaiting her.
Then the host announced, “Who’s excited to meet Barry?” Mom, thinking “meet” meant seeing him up close from our seats, was in for a shock. We revealed the real surprise: she was actually going to meet Barry Manilow! Disbelief turned to tears of joy.
Meeting Barry was surreal. Rule number one: no hugging Barry. But as Mom instinctively reached out for a hug, Barry graciously embraced her. We shared how his music had been our constant companion, a source of strength through life’s storms. I’m sure I saw a tear in Barry’s eye, mirroring the tears streaming down Mom’s and mine. It was a profoundly moving moment.
Barry Manilow with Teary-Eyed Fan
Words escaped us as we left the room. Shari Greco Reiches, speechless – a rare occurrence! We were then escorted to our front-row seats, our names elegantly displayed. It felt like Barry was singing directly to us. We knew every lyric, sang along with all our hearts, swayed, danced, and yes, cried happy tears together.
It was more than a concert; it was a culmination of a lifetime of shared love for Barry’s music, a night etched forever in our memories. Was it expensive? Yes. But can you put a price on sharing such an extraordinary experience with your mom and brother, alongside the legendary Barry Manilow? It was, unequivocally, one of the greatest nights of my life.
Barry Manilow Arms Raised in White Suit
Even Now: Chase Your Dreams
This experience taught me a powerful lesson: if you have a bucket list dream, don’t wait. Maximize your return on life and pursue those experiences that truly matter. And please, share your stories with me – I’m always eager to hear about the moments that enrich your lives.
Barry Manilow with Shari Greco Reiches
Shari Greco Reiches
