Barry Manilow, the renowned singer-songwriter, recently shared the reasons behind his decision to keep his sexuality a secret for several decades. He revealed that the potential negative impact on his career was a major concern during the 1970s when society was less accepting of LGBTQ+ individuals. Manilow, who publicly came out as gay in 2017, emphasized how times have changed and being gay is now widely accepted.
In an interview with CNN’s Chris Wallace, Manilow acknowledged that the public’s attitude towards homosexuality in the 1970s would have been detrimental to his career. He stated that coming out as gay during that era would have likely ended his professional success. However, he expressed gratitude for the positive response he received after his announcement, both from his fans and the general public.
Manilow’s revelation about his sexuality offers insights into the personal and professional challenges faced by individuals in the entertainment industry, particularly during a time of significant social change. The impact of societal acceptance or rejection can have a profound effect on an artist’s career and mental well-being.
Reflecting on his relationship with his longtime partner and manager, Garry Kief, Manilow credited Kief with providing him the support and stability he needed during the peak of his career. He described their relationship as a source of happiness and strength, ultimately dispelling feelings of loneliness and ensuring his emotional well-being.
Prior to his relationship with Kief, Manilow had married his childhood sweetheart, Susan Deixler. The marriage, however, only lasted a year before it was annulled in 1966. Manilow admitted that his attractions towards the same sex played a significant role in the dissolution of his marriage. Despite this revelation, he emphasized that the primary reason for the separation was due to his inability to commit fully to the marriage as he was focused on his musical aspirations.
The interview also shed light on Manilow’s successful career in the music industry. As one of the best-selling musicians of all time, Manilow highlighted the impact of his background in writing jingles on his songwriting abilities. He explained that the key to creating a memorable pop song, similar to a commercial jingle, is to capture the audience’s attention within the first 15 seconds.
Additionally, Manilow shared an interesting anecdote about how he conceived the concept for his hit song “Copacabana.” He jokingly mentioned that the idea came to him during his “first nervous breakdown” at the Copacabana Hotel in Rio de Janeiro in 1970. While he clarified that he was not experiencing a breakdown, he acknowledged that fame had taken a toll on his mental health, particularly as he transitioned from a background performer to a prominent solo artist.
Barry Manilow’s journey serves as a testament to the evolution of societal acceptance towards the LGBTQ+ community. It highlights the challenges faced by individuals in the entertainment industry and the impact that hiding one’s true self can have on personal relationships and emotional well-being. Manilow’s decision to come out publicly and the subsequent positive response from his fans demonstrate the growing acceptance and support for LGBTQ+ artists in today’s society.
As we celebrate the progress made in acceptance and inclusivity, it is essential to recognize the continued importance of providing a safe and supportive environment for individuals to express their authentic selves. Society must strive to create a world where artists, regardless of their sexual orientation, feel encouraged to share their stories without fear of negative consequences. Ultimately, embracing the diversity within the entertainment industry enriches the creative landscape and promotes a culture of acceptance and equality.
