Barry and Twitter

Last night during the Oscars, Ashton Kutcher and Demi Moore sent Twitter messages and pictures of the event out to all of those on their network. Fans got a birds eye view of the after-party and some rare shared moments into the lives of these famous celebrities. The article in the New York Times bits blog is interesting and brings up some interesting "what ifs" in my mind.

One can only imagine what might happen if Barry picked up this little tool. Twitter membership would soar in a matter of a few seconds...much like Facebook did when TPTB finally set up a page on his behalf. How cool would it be though if he sent a Twitterpic from backstage at the Hilton one night, or updated us on his activities during the course of a normal day.

Ok..I was delusional for a moment. There's no way he could EVER do this. The disaster scenarios would be endless. Just use your imagination! What was I thinking????

Heavy sigh,
Texas Fan

Awards

Honorees Dr. Anthony Fauci (from left)
and Barry Manilow with presenter Suzanne Somers
(photo-Wade Byars The Desert Sun)

Saturday night Barry received the Steven Chase Award for Community Service in Palm Springs. By his own admission, this was his first Community Service award. He's involved in his community and he gives back, most recently through his Manilow Music Project.

I often wonder how celebrities feel about the awards they receive. Lately Barry has received quite a few. There are so many of them and the list goes on and on. There are awards from their peers, awards from their fans in the form of album sales, and even awards from charitable organizations. There are awards to recognize professional achievement, involvement, and philanthropy.

As fans, we are always proud of all the awards that Barry receives. And I would hope that he would say the most treasured award he would ever receive would be those he received because of his fans. The record sales. The sold out concerts and shows. The years of faithful support. It would be nice to think that after the years of him giving us so much joy and encouragement, we are able to give back the same. We may not be able to present him with an award per se, but I hope that he knows how much we value the gift of music he has given to all of us and the sacrifices he makes to continue to go out on stage after all these years.

Here I am again, offering him the "Award of Gratitude" for the joy, the memories, and the friendships that have come to me over the years because of his music.

Applause!!!!!
Texas Fan

The Manilow Fund

It's not often that a charity contacts its supporters and asks them how to spend the money that's been donated. It's a unique concept, but one that seems important to Barry and those who run his charity.

I would imagine that most people won't even take the time to offer a suggestion, but if you don't, you're missing out on a blessing. If you don't get involved and take the time to suggest one of your favorite charities, how will they know? And better yet, how will you be able to influence the lives of the people whose charity you recommend?

I was watching an episode of West Wing yesterday and I was reminded of this famous quote: "Decisions are made by those who show up." Try showing up sometime. Maybe, just maybe, a decision will be made because you did. Click the link below and do your part! Submit a charity for their consideration.

Manilow Fund for Health and Hope

Texas Fan

The Friars Club

This past weekend Barry was inducted into the Friar's Club. He managed to avoid the usual "roast" that normally comes along with said induction. After watching the video of some of the ceremony, I started thinking about what it would be like for Barry to "roast" some of those critics who have so mercilessly attacked him over the years.

I could imagine him saying something along the lines of comparing the longevity of his career to some of theirs. Most of whom probably aren't even in the business any longer. Or him commenting on the numerous awards he's received, as opposed to some of their measely accomplishments in the field of publishing. And he might end with the fact that he is still, after all these years, selling out concerts, producing other artisit's albums, and arranging and producing an original jazz album. All after many years of criticism alluding to the fact that he was not a serious musician.

Ah yes. I'd love to hear him "roast" those critics. But, true to the gentleman that he is, he would simply smile and thank them for their years of attention and for the honor of being inducted.

If only,
Texas Fan

Now THAT'S What I'm Talking About!

In a recent interview, Barry spoke some of the most long awaited words to any Manilow fan:

“I’ve gotta get back to writing my own stuff,” “This has been a lot of fun, and it’s great that it’s always been successful, but I’m done.”

It's finally time to put the cover albums away and look forward to some original material. The two ALL original albums, 2AM Paradise Cafe and Here at the Mayflower, are, in my opinion, masterpieces. I can't wait to experience his latest work of art.

Counting the months,
Texas Fan

This is WHY we love him!

Barry speaks about his Grammy nomination:

I’m so happy they found this album because it’s not about me, it’s about these three musicians. I found these three young musicians…they’re real jazz musicians: Matt Herskowitz, David Rosenblatt, and Matt Fields. When I got the opportunity to make this album I went, Oh, maybe I could showcase these guys. So I’m just the boy singer on this, really. And I did these arrangements for these guys. And it’s great that the Grammy committee found this album. Maybe they’ll get a break because they’re the real deal and it would be great if I could give them a shot.

Even though Barry's genius was not recognized at the Grammy's last night by receiving an award, this interview demonstrates his passion for young talent in the music business.

Way to Go Barry...you're always a WINNER in our eyes,
Texas Fan

Here's to "our" Man

This week Barry hit the road for two AWESOME shows on the East coast. The reviews are pouring in and as always, he did not disappoint.

Sunday is the Grammy Awards. He's nominated for his "In the Swing of Christmas" album. And I for one will be rooting and keeping every finger and toe crossed that he will win this one. It's past time for him to be recognized again for his genius.

But even if he doesn't win, he'll always be a winner in the hearts of his fans.

Here's to "our" Man!
Texas Fan

American Idol

Last night, Barry appeared on American Idol as a mentor in their first ever boot camp. Good choice by the Idol producers and staff. Although his fans only got to see him for a few short snippets, the contestants were the benefactors of his years of experience and his heart for their success. If any of those young people desire to be successful in their careers, they listened and learned from the master.

What is the secret of becoming a star?
Preparation meets opportunity.
Now you've got the opportunity, so it's up to you to prepare.

This is advice we can all grab hold of and use in our lives.

Way to go Barry!
Texas Fan

On the road again

On the road so long and lonely...a little traveling music please.

This week, Barry heads out to a few weeks of arena shows and one personal appearance on Good Morning America. For the fans on the east coast it's going to be an exciting time. For those of us stuck at home, we'll be wishing we were heading out as well. It's hard to sit at home knowing so many will be traveling to see him and having some great times along the way. But I've certainly had my share of those fun times and can't begrudge anyone that same joy.

So here's to a few weeks of great shows, wonderful laughter, overwhelming joy and some marvelous memories!

There in spirit,
Texas Fan