Barry Manilow, the renowned pop icon, has announced the cancellation of his upcoming concert tour dates due to ongoing health issues. The 79-year-old singer revealed in a heartfelt message to fans that he has faced significant challenges following a recent health scare, which has led him to prioritise his recovery over performing.
In a candid statement shared on social media, Manilow discussed a recent consultation with his surgeon. He described the visit as “very depressing,” highlighting the reality of his current health condition. Despite his commitment to recovery—exercising daily and attempting to perform longer sets—the legendary performer acknowledged that he is not yet fit to meet the physical demands of his tour. “I told him that I have been using the treadmill three times a day, but that I still couldn’t sing more than three songs in a row before I had to stop,” he explained.
While he had hoped for a different prognosis, his doctor advised against performing his planned arena shows. “He said, ‘Barry, you won’t be ready to do a 90-minute show. Your lungs aren’t ready yet,’” Manilow recounted. This confirmation, though difficult to accept, resonated with his instincts. “Deep down… my body knew what my heart didn’t want to admit: I wasn’t ready.”
In light of this advice, Manilow has rescheduled his shows from February 27 to March 17, 2024. He remains optimistic about returning to his Las Vegas residency at the end of March and resuming his tour in April. “When I do come back, I will COME BACK!!!” he declared, providing fans with hopeful anticipation for his return.
The singer’s health challenges began in December 2023 when he revealed that he had been diagnosed with a cancerous spot on his lung. This discovery followed weeks of battling bronchitis and was described by medical experts, including senior medical analyst Dr. Marc Siegel, as a fortunate early diagnosis. “It’s pure luck (and a great doctor) that it was found so early,” Manilow noted, reassuring fans that the spot had not spread and would not require chemotherapy or radiation.
Manilow’s approach to recovery includes rest and lighthearted activities, as he humorously stated, “Just chicken soup and ‘I Love Lucy’ reruns.” He expressed gratitude for the support he has received during this challenging time and signed off his message with “All my love and gratitude, B.”
Known for his chart-topping hits like “Mandy” and “Copacabana,” Barry Manilow has cemented his legacy as one of the most successful pop artists of the 1970s and 1980s. As he navigates this health crisis, both fans and the music community await his return with optimism and support.
