Barry Manilow has announced details of his brand-new album, What a Time, arriving June 5 and marking his first major release of original music in nearly a decade and a half.
The project, which he co-produced with longtime collaborator Michael Lloyd, is the long-awaited follow-up to 2011’s 15 Minutes.
Rather than revisiting old hits, Manilow is using the LP to showcase fresh material and new creative partnerships.
The 13-song collection brings together an eclectic mix of collaborators, including Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds, Dave Cobb, and his trusted songwriting partners Bruce Sussman and Adrienne Anderson.
Fans have already gotten a taste of the record through its bright, melodic lead single Sun Shine, co-written with Take That’s Gary Barlow and produced by Manilow alongside David Benson and Greg Bartheld.
The album also opens with Once Before I Go, a previously released track executive-produced by Clive Davis and co-written by Dean Pitchford and Peter Allen, setting the tone for a project that blends nostalgia with new energy.
The announcement comes as Manilow continues to recover from a recent health setback.
The 82-year-old singer postponed his farewell tour in December after doctors discovered a cancerous spot in his left lung. He later rescheduled additional shows, explaining that although he is getting “stronger,” he has struggled with the slow pace of recovery.
In a video message celebrating Once Before I Go entering the Adult Contemporary Top 10 — extending his chart success into a sixth decade — Manilow admitted the journey has been challenging.
He told fans: “Since I have no patience, it’s been agony.”
Manilow added that he is eager to return to the stage and grateful for the support of his medical team, friends, and family.
He also used the moment to tease the new album, saying: “What a time it’s been. Hey, that’s the name of my new album! It comes out real soon and I can’t wait to show these songs to you.”
Manilow has been candid about the realities of his recovery, sharing that his surgeon advised him he wasn’t yet ready to perform a full 90-minute arena show despite his determination. While the first leg of his tour has been pushed back, he assured fans he is doing everything possible to return to performing.
The tour is now scheduled to resume on April 13 at New York’s UBS Arena.
What A Time tracklist:
1. Once Before I Go
2. What a Time
3. Sun Shine
4. Another Life
5. Touched By an Angel
6. The Chosen One
7. One More Chance
8. Nobody Knows My Song
9. When Somebody Says Goodbye (Duet with Sharon “Muffy” Hendrix)
10. Don’t Trouble the Water
11. Look at Me Now (Featuring Dave Koz)
12. Nobody Told Me
13. Coming of Age
