I am always amazed at your gift with words. I look forward to getting your emails and make sure to read them all. Thank you for sharing your experiences so eloquently. I grew up with Barry too - my mom was a huge fan. š¤š¤š¤
Andrea, Iāll never forget seeing Barry Manilow with you. You lit up like his sequins, and watching you enjoy every moment turned my teenage love of his songs into a deep admiration for his artistry, his incredible body of work, and his unwavering passion for performing. xoxo
I found your publication through your comment on Jessica Smockās Midstack share thread, and this story immediately drew me in.
What stayed with me most was not only the extraordinary moment of finally meeting Barry Manilow, but the decision behind it: you refused to leave without saying what his work had meant to you. After a lifetime of memories, you chose possible awkwardness over certain regret.
That connects deeply with what I explore through LifeArchitecture. I write about self-awareness, responsibility, character, and the decisions through which we consciously create our lives. Sometimes an entire life seems to prepare us for one momentāand then asks whether we are brave enough to step forward when it arrives.
I subscribed because I genuinely want to continue reading your work.
If my writing resonates with you, I would be delighted if you subscribed to LifeArchitecture as well. If you feel it could bring value to your readers, I would also truly appreciate your recommendation. I would be very happy to recommend your publication in return.
Makes me think of the time I was backstage at an '80s concert. I wasn't prepared. I won tickets but didn't realize until the show was half over (and the alcohol was wearing off) that the prize included backstage access.
The Human League brushed by as they came offstage.
Outside the dressing rooms, everyone was gathering around Terri Nunn. Damn, she looked hot. I snapped pictures from 10 feet away, trying not to look obvious.
Anamotion was one of the bands, and they killed it. I had been obsessed with "Obsession" back in the day (it spoke to me in a way I'm embarrassed to admit now), so it was a real treat. Bill Wadhams was standing alone a few feet away from me, occasionally looking my way. I wanted to tell him how much I enjoyed their performance, how much I loved "Obsession." But I just couldn't get any words out. Opportunity squandered.
Now I try to say the nice thing when I get the chance. Just wish I'd had the courage to do it then.
What an awesome music memory, Beth! Very cool! And yes, age (and alcohol!) give a huge boost in helping say the nice thing, regardless of whether it comes out polished and pretty or as complete babble š¤Ŗ
So moving! I love the shot of the embrace. Huge Barry Manilow fan.
My dad who passed over 10 years ago introduced me to his songs. Reminds me of him every time I play them. Thank you for sharing this today, and bringing me a little wink from beyond from my Dad. š
Oh that's the sweetest, AnaLisa! Music is amazing in how it connects us to people and through time. So glad it brought you a little wink from your Dad! ā¤ļø
I am always amazed at your gift with words. I look forward to getting your emails and make sure to read them all. Thank you for sharing your experiences so eloquently. I grew up with Barry too - my mom was a huge fan. š¤š¤š¤
Awww thanks so much, Stephanie! I'm humbled by your kind words, and thrilled and grateful that you're a loyal reader! ā¤ļø
Barry Manilow and Merlin. You can take the girl out of the 70s but you can never really take the 70s out of the girl. For that, Iām grateful. š
Ain't that the truth! ā¤ļø
Andrea, Iāll never forget seeing Barry Manilow with you. You lit up like his sequins, and watching you enjoy every moment turned my teenage love of his songs into a deep admiration for his artistry, his incredible body of work, and his unwavering passion for performing. xoxo
We are beyond blessed to share so many treasured music memories, my special friend! ā¤ļø
So true!š Grateful for all of it and our friendship xo
Hi Andrea,
I found your publication through your comment on Jessica Smockās Midstack share thread, and this story immediately drew me in.
What stayed with me most was not only the extraordinary moment of finally meeting Barry Manilow, but the decision behind it: you refused to leave without saying what his work had meant to you. After a lifetime of memories, you chose possible awkwardness over certain regret.
That connects deeply with what I explore through LifeArchitecture. I write about self-awareness, responsibility, character, and the decisions through which we consciously create our lives. Sometimes an entire life seems to prepare us for one momentāand then asks whether we are brave enough to step forward when it arrives.
I subscribed because I genuinely want to continue reading your work.
If my writing resonates with you, I would be delighted if you subscribed to LifeArchitecture as well. If you feel it could bring value to your readers, I would also truly appreciate your recommendation. I would be very happy to recommend your publication in return.
Warmly, Agnes
Thank you for reading and sharing your comments, Agnes. Nice to cross paths here!
This was awesome! I love Barry Manilow!
Makes me think of the time I was backstage at an '80s concert. I wasn't prepared. I won tickets but didn't realize until the show was half over (and the alcohol was wearing off) that the prize included backstage access.
The Human League brushed by as they came offstage.
Outside the dressing rooms, everyone was gathering around Terri Nunn. Damn, she looked hot. I snapped pictures from 10 feet away, trying not to look obvious.
Anamotion was one of the bands, and they killed it. I had been obsessed with "Obsession" back in the day (it spoke to me in a way I'm embarrassed to admit now), so it was a real treat. Bill Wadhams was standing alone a few feet away from me, occasionally looking my way. I wanted to tell him how much I enjoyed their performance, how much I loved "Obsession." But I just couldn't get any words out. Opportunity squandered.
Now I try to say the nice thing when I get the chance. Just wish I'd had the courage to do it then.
What an awesome music memory, Beth! Very cool! And yes, age (and alcohol!) give a huge boost in helping say the nice thing, regardless of whether it comes out polished and pretty or as complete babble š¤Ŗ
It would definitely have been babble!
I would have been a puddle on the ground in front of him. Iām proud of you for putting words together!
Awww thank you so much! I love how much love there is for Barry! ā¤ļø
So moving! I love the shot of the embrace. Huge Barry Manilow fan.
My dad who passed over 10 years ago introduced me to his songs. Reminds me of him every time I play them. Thank you for sharing this today, and bringing me a little wink from beyond from my Dad. š
Oh that's the sweetest, AnaLisa! Music is amazing in how it connects us to people and through time. So glad it brought you a little wink from your Dad! ā¤ļø
Fun!!!
Thanks, Nicole! ā¤ļø
Your love for Barry and his work has been unabashed since we have been connected on myspace lol !
So happy you got this opportunity and your excitement and emotion leaps off the page ! Thanks for sharing !
Thank you so much, Michelle! ā¤ļø
Absolutely priceless and exquisitely described!
You're so sweet, thank you, Kathy! ā¤ļø