Barry Manilow’s career spans decades — but by any measure, his music is timeless.

“Well, that’s the goal for any artist — not to be an oldies act,” Manilow said. “And by the way, I keep changing the arrangements as the years and music changes. Looks Like We Made It — sure it still sounds like Looks Like We Made It, but it doesn't sound old. It’s got a lot of muscle to it. It’s got a lot of power to it, just the way it should have, as it grew.”

His enduring sound, his countless hits, his immeasurable impact on music — just some of the reason The New York Pops honored him at its 40th birthday gala.

What You Need To Know

  • Barry Manilow is honored by The New York Pops on their 40th birthday gala

  • Manilow has sold 85 million albums worldwide

  • He will begin a five-night run at Radio City Hall 

“A man who has sold 85 million albums worldwide that is one of the world’s bestselling artists. So the guy truly is iconic,” Steven Reineke, Music Director for The NY Pops, said.

“I’ve gotten awards before periodically, but never has anyone done a whole evening of the songs that have meant so much to me. Sung by some of the greatest singers, Broadway singers, and a 78 piece orchestra,” Manilow added.

When NY1’s reporter, Stephanie Simon asked Manilow about his songs being a part of the American Songbook, he responded: “Well wouldn’t that be nice? If you’re right. It’s been a long time, a long ride, since Mandy — which was a big surprise — and not many people get this. They told me if I was lucky, my record career would last five years.”

Mandy, a breakout hit in the mid-1970’s, among a crowded field of Manilow favorites that still draws a packed house.

Simon asked him about his audience being older, but also younger, listeners.

“Yeah, I know you’re right. It should be a bunch a gray hairs, but it’s not,” he said. “I couldn’t be more grateful.

Manilow recalls some things fans say to him when he’s in the city.

“They just say thank you. That’s all. Over and over. Thank you for sticking with it, making music,” he said. “Isn’t that the nicest thing you ever heard?”

“And then one time I was waking, and a guy popped his head out of a manholes, ‘Hey Barry!’” he added. “That was a favorite moment.”

Manilow says he will continue to appreciate the moments and the milestones.