Barry Manilow
Tampa

Barry Manilow: From Brooklyn Jingle Writer to Global Superstar

Barry Alan Pincus was born on June 17, 1943, in Brooklyn, New York, and grew up in the Williamsburg neighborhood. He took the last name Manilow from his stepfather and began studying music at the New York College of Music and later at Juilliard. Before becoming one of the best-selling artists of all time, Manilow paid his dues in the trenches of the New York entertainment industry, composing and arranging music for Off-Broadway productions, writing commercial jingles for brands like State Farm ("Like a Good Neighbor"), Band-Aid, and McDonald's, and serving as the musical director at the CBS television network. His big break came when he was hired as Bette Midler's piano accompanist and musical director at the Continental Baths in Manhattan, a role that led to him co-producing her first two albums and touring with her as she became a star.

Manilow's solo career launched with his self-titled debut in 1973, but it was Barry Manilow II in 1974 that changed everything. The album's lead single, "Mandy," climbed to number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in January 1975 and established Manilow as a romantic balladeer with an uncanny ear for melody. What followed was one of the most remarkable hit streaks in pop music history: 25 consecutive Top 40 singles, including "It's a Miracle," "I Write the Songs" (Grammy Song of the Year, 1977), "Tryin' to Get the Feeling Again," "This One's for You," "Looks Like We Made It," "Weekend in New England," "Can't Smile Without You," "Even Now," "Somewhere in the Night," and "Ready to Take a Chance Again." The 1978 Grammy-winning "Copacabana (At the Copa)" became his signature theatrical number, later inspiring a TV movie and a West End musical.

By the early 1980s, Manilow had sold tens of millions of records and was one of the biggest concert draws in the world. His live shows were known for their emotional depth, musical precision, and Manilow's ability to make every audience member feel as though he was singing directly to them. He continued recording and touring throughout the 1980s, 1990s, and 2000s, reinventing himself with each era while always anchoring his performances in the timeless hits that had made him famous. In 2005, he launched his first Las Vegas residency at the Las Vegas Hilton (later the Westgate), and in 2018 he opened a new residency, MANILOW: Las Vegas — The Hits Come Home!, at the Westgate to rave reviews and sold-out audiences. He made history in 2024 by signing the first-ever Lifetime Residency Contract with Westgate, ensuring that Las Vegas would remain his performing home even as he wound down his touring schedule.

The Last Concerts tour represents Manilow's final farewell to the arena stage. After being diagnosed with a cancerous spot on his lung, Manilow underwent surgery and postponed several tour dates — including his original Florida run — to focus on recovery. The rescheduled dates, including The Last Tampa Concert at Benchmark International Arena on January 20, 2027, are now confirmed, and Manilow has expressed his determination to honor every commitment to his fans. With over 85 million records sold worldwide, a Grammy Award, an Emmy Award, a Tony Award, and induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, Manilow's legacy is secure. The Last Tampa Concert is a chance for Florida fans to witness that legacy in person one final time.

BigStub has verified resale tickets for Barry Manilow's Last Tampa Concert with no hidden fees and a buyer guarantee backed by over 20 years of trusted service. Whether you have been a fan since "Mandy" first played on AM radio or discovered Manilow's music through a parent or grandparent, this farewell performance is an evening you will never forget.

Tampa Bay has long been one of Manilow's strongest markets, with generations of fans in the region who have followed his career from the "Mandy" days through the Las Vegas residency era. The Last Tampa Concert represents the end of that relationship — a final evening of music and memories in a city that has embraced him for decades. Manilow's live performances are known for their warmth, humor, and emotional honesty. He tells stories between songs, shares memories from his career, and creates an atmosphere that feels more like a gathering of friends than a stadium concert. At Benchmark International Arena, every seat will be close enough to feel that connection, and the farewell context gives every note an added weight that makes these final shows genuinely special. For fans in the Tampa Bay area, this is a night that will live in memory long after the last encore fades.

How to Buy Barry Manilow Tampa Tickets

Where can I buy Barry Manilow Tampa tickets?

Tickets may be available through the Benchmark International Arena box office and authorized sellers like Ticketmaster. You can also check barrymanilow.com for official tour information. Verified resale tickets are available on BigStub, a trusted marketplace with no hidden fees, a buyer guarantee, and the highest Trustpilot rating in the ticket resale industry.

When is Barry Manilow performing in Tampa?

Barry Manilow's Last Tampa Concert is scheduled for January 20, 2027, at Benchmark International Arena. This is a rescheduled date from the original 2026 Florida run, which was postponed while Manilow recovered from lung surgery. All previously purchased tickets are expected to be honored at the new date.

What songs will Barry Manilow perform?

Manilow's farewell setlist draws from his five-decade catalog of hits. Fans can expect to hear Mandy, I Write the Songs, Copacabana (At the Copa), Looks Like We Made It, Can't Smile Without You, Weekend in New England, Even Now, This One's for You, It's a Miracle, and many more. The Last Concerts shows are designed as a comprehensive celebration of his entire career.

What is Benchmark International Arena?

Benchmark International Arena is located in the Tampa Bay area and serves as a premier entertainment and sports venue. The arena offers reserved seating, premium suites, and concessions throughout the venue. Check the arena website for parking information, entry policies, and accessibility services before your visit.

Are resale Barry Manilow tickets safe?

Yes, when purchased through a verified marketplace like BigStub. Every ticket is verified before the transaction completes, and each purchase includes a buyer guarantee with dedicated customer service. BigStub has over 20 years of experience and the highest Trustpilot rating in the industry.

Barry Manilow Tampa Tickets FAQ

When is Barry Manilow performing in Tampa?

Barry Manilow's Last Tampa Concert is scheduled for January 20, 2027, at Benchmark International Arena. This is a rescheduled date as part of his farewell 'The Last Concerts' tour.

What is The Last Concerts tour?

The Last Concerts is Barry Manilow's farewell arena tour, representing his final performances in cities across the United States. Each show is billed as each city's final Manilow concert, marking Manilow's final appearance in that market.

Why were the Barry Manilow Florida dates rescheduled?

Manilow postponed several tour dates after being diagnosed with a cancerous spot on his lung and undergoing surgery. The rescheduled dates are now confirmed for January 2027.

What are Barry Manilow's biggest hits?

Manilow's biggest hits include Mandy, I Write the Songs, Copacabana (At the Copa), Looks Like We Made It, Can't Smile Without You, Weekend in New England, Even Now, This One's for You, and It's a Miracle.

How many records has Barry Manilow sold?

Barry Manilow has sold over 85 million records worldwide, making him one of the best-selling artists of all time.

Has Barry Manilow won a Grammy?

Yes, Manilow won the Grammy Award for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance for Copacabana (At the Copa) in 1979. He has been nominated 15 times across five decades.

What other Florida cities is Barry Manilow visiting?

In addition to Tampa, Manilow's Last Concerts tour includes stops in Miami (Amerant Bank Arena), Orlando (Kia Center), and Estero (Hertz Arena, two nights) in January 2027.

Where is Benchmark International Arena?

Benchmark International Arena is located in the Tampa Bay area and serves as a major entertainment and sports venue with full concert capabilities.

What is Barry Manilow's Las Vegas residency?

Manilow has maintained a Las Vegas residency since 2005, currently at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort and Casino. In 2024, he signed the first-ever Lifetime Residency Contract with Westgate.

How old is Barry Manilow?

Barry Manilow was born on June 17, 1943, in Brooklyn, New York. He continues to perform at age 83 with remarkable vocal strength and stage presence.

Where can I buy verified Barry Manilow Tampa tickets?

Verified resale tickets are available on BigStub, which offers no hidden fees, a buyer guarantee, and the highest Trustpilot rating in the ticket resale industry. Official tickets may also be available through Ticketmaster and the Benchmark International Arena box office.

Is this really Barry Manilow's last Tampa show?

Yes, The Last Tampa Concert is billed as Manilow's final arena performance in the Tampa market. While his Las Vegas residency at the Westgate continues, his touring farewell marks the end of his arena concert career.