The Philadelphia Inquirer
Barry Manilow reveals the Philly nightclub he played with Bette Midler that inspired him to go solo
by A.D. Amorosi, For the Inquirer
SEPTEMBER 13, 2017
You were a behind-the-scenes musician at your start. When did you realize that you could be out-front?
Seriously, at the old Bijou Café in Philly. I was playing for Bette who was the greatest entertainer ever, and was just starting to sing out, first doing openers for Bette’s tours. I couldn’t figure what to do with my legs, I was terrible. But during the end of our run there, I did “Could It Be Magic” and a commercials medley and the audience was so welcoming. After that, I got confidence. I learned on the job. But Philly was crucial.
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