Barry Manilow, who holds a special place in the hearts of his fans and Vegas visitors, is an important presence here in Las Vegas. His residency continues to evolve— after all, at times, it’s difficult to pinpoint what works in this town. But Manilow’s superior showmanship acts as a guide to all performers seeking a successful residency in Vegas.
In a recent interview with Las Vegas Magazine’s Brock Radke, Manilow said that within the last six years, he’s noticed a change in his audiences. “I would try to throw in an album cut and they’d be okay with it,” he explained, “but then I’d do ‘Can’t Smile Without You’ and the roof would cave in.” Audiences were telling Manilow exactly what they wanted—the hits. Moreover, they simply want to be in his presence, singing along to the songs that defined their lives.
He offers his fans (or friends, as Manilow prefers to call them) everything he has to give, from the hits, to tender and sentimental stories that contextualize his musical journey, from an uncanny ability to connect with his audiences, to the intimacy he cultivates during his shows, making every audience member feel as though Manilow is singing directly to them. To prospective musical artists seeking a Strip residency: This is what works in Vegas.
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