Barry Manilow, I Write the Songs | Throwback Vibez

In the 18^th edition of Throwback Vibez (2026), we recollect and reflect on “I Write the Songs” by iconic pop musician Barry Manilow.

[otw_shortcode_dropcap label=”C” size=”large” border_color_class=”otw-no-border-color” shadow=”shadow” square=”square”]an you feel those vibes, those surefire Throwback Vibez?! Throwback Vibez is a column that celebrates awesome songs from the past. Ah, there is nothing like a good oldie to get you fired up! The records featured in this column feature gems from the 20^th century, with a few exceptions. All genres of music are welcome. In the 18^th edition of Throwback Vibez (2026), we recollect and reflect on “I Write the Songs” performed by Barry Manilow.[/otw_shortcode_dropcap] No truer words have ever been spoken, Barry Manilow (b. 1943).  Cutting straight to the chase, “I Write the Songs” is one of the finest pop songs ever written. In the 21^st century, we call this a bop! Bruce Johnston penned the seventh track from Manilow’s 1975 album, Tryin’ To Get The Feeling. Manilow and Ron Dante produced it.  Disclaimer: Manilow was NOT the first person to record it.  It was originally released by Captain & Tennille (the same year).  Even David Cassidy (1950 – 2017) released before Manilow.  But it was Barry who transformed Johnson’s song into a hit.  How big of a hit? It reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100.  It was certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America. Also, it was nominated for the Grammy for Record of the Year at the 19^th Annual Grammy Awards. 

From the beginning of “I Write the Songs,” the music arrangement stands out. Gorgeous, this is a well-orchestrated and well-produced number. Among the instrumentation beyond the rhythm section are warm strings, including harp, winds, and symphonic elements.  A cinematic song like “I Write The Song” begs for an orchestra, and it gets it! Beyond the backdrop, Barry Manilow does what he does best – SING! His vocals are strong, commanding, and expressive.  His tone is pure, and his sincerity is utterly sublime.  As always, Manilow brings the theatrics, with his showmanship shining through the audio 🤯.  The chorus is the section to beat.  It is divine, ranking among the best of his illustrious catalog:  

“I write the songs that make the whole world sing

I write the songs of love and special things

I write the songs that make the young girls cry

I write the songs, I write the songs.”

Beyond the chorus, the bridge distinguishes itself from the verses and chorus.  Here, epic orchestral touches appear, accentuating the drama. Post-bridge, on the chorus, there is a dramatic key modulation to the key of A that’s perfect!  Manilow doesn’t stop there, ascending a full step to the key of B, in all of its five-sharp glory! While the song fades out, near the end remains dramatic with the drum runs, horn riffs, and those high-flying, theatrical choral vocals. “I Write the Songs” is one of many special songs that Barry Manilow gave the world. I could sing its praises over and over again, but it’s best experienced by simply listening. 

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Barry Manilow » Tryin’ To Get The Feeling » Arista Records LLC » 1975

Barry Manilow, I Write the Songs: Throwback Vibez No. 18 (2026) [📷: Brent Faulkner / The Musical Hype; Arista Records LLC; Clker-Free-Vector-Images, Gordon Johnson, schubinger from Pixabay]

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