7 Barry Manilow Songs You’ve Forgotten (But Will Instantly Recognize)

Remember the first time you heard “Copacabana” or “Mandy” and couldn’t get them out of your head? Barry Manilow has a way of crafting earworms that stick with us for decades—but what about the hidden gems in his discography that you’ve forgotten?

In this article, we’ll uncover 7 Barry Manilow songs that’ll have you saying, “Wait, *he* sang that?!” These tracks might not have topped the charts like his biggest hits, but their melodies are instantly recognizable, and you’ve probably heard them in movies, commercials, or even elevators (no shame!).

1. “Ships” (1979)

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Ever heard a hauntingly beautiful ballad about a strained father-son relationship? That’s “Ships.”

Though originally written by Ian Hunter, Manilow’s rendition turns the song into a soaring emotional powerhouse.

You might recognize it from nostalgic TV montages or—randomly—a 2017 Geico commercial.

2. “Somewhere in the Night” (1978)

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This one’s a slow-burn anthem for anyone who’s ever loved a mystery.

With its smoky jazz-club vibe, it’s been featured in crime dramas and late-night radio rotations for years.

Fun fact: It was almost the theme song for *Hart to Hart*, but Manilow’s team said no!

3. “The Old Songs” (1981)

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A meta masterpiece about how old songs trigger nostalgia—written by Manilow himself.

It’s been used in everything from *The Simpsons* to Target ads, proving its timeless appeal.

Bonus: The melody is so sticky, you’ll hum it after one listen.

4. “Let’s Hang On” (1982)

Yes, that’s Barry belting a cover of The Four Seasons’ classic!

His version amps up the drama with brass and backup singers, making it a wedding-reception staple.

Heard it recently? Thank *Guardians of the Galaxy* or your local karaoke bar.

5. “Read ’Em and Weep” (1983)

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Written by Jim Steinman (of *Meat Loaf* fame), this power ballad is pure ’80s excess.

It’s the song you didn’t realize was playing in the background of *The Last Action Hero* or your cousin’s dramatic breakup playlist.

6. “Bermuda Triangle” (1981)

A disco-infused oddity about the mysterious vanishing zone.

It’s been sampled in electronic tracks and even popped up in a *Stranger Things*–style synthwave revival.

Proof that Manilow could make *anything* sound glamorous.

7. “One Voice” (1979)

A tender, piano-driven call for unity that’s been used in political ads, Olympics montages, and—yes—*American Idol* audiences.

Funny enough, it’s also the song your aunt insists is “underrated” at Thanksgiving.

So, how many of these did you recognize? Barry Manilow’s catalog is deeper than “Copacabana,” and these forgotten tracks prove his music is everywhere—even if we don’t always realize it.

Next time you hear a swoony melody in a commercial or a movie climax, listen closely… it might just be Barry sneaking back into your life.

Videos by Barry Manilow

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