Barry Manilow, 85, Sets June 5 Album Return After Lung Cancer Surgery

4 articles · Updated · Los Angeles Times · May 27

June 5 will bring Barry Manilow’s new album “What a Time,” his first LP of mostly original songs in nearly 15 years after a five-month break from the stage.
December’s lung cancer diagnosis led to surgery and severe complications — including pneumonia, AFib and seven days in intensive care — leaving Manilow still rebuilding his breathing and voice.
July Las Vegas dates remain on his schedule, but the 85-year-old said he is not yet strong enough for a 90-minute show and is working out daily with a vocal coach.
The album’s opening track, “Once Before I Go,” produced by Babyface, recently reached Billboard’s adult contemporary chart, extending Manilow’s run there beyond 50 years.
The release gives Manilow a creative outlet as he recovers, while underscoring uncertainty over whether one of pop’s longest-running live performers can fully return to the road.

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