As the legendary pop icon Barry Manilow prepares to bid farewell to his touring career, the Bay Area gets a final chance to experience his musical magic. At 82 years old, Manilow is embarking on what he playfully calls his “see him before he croaks tour,” bringing his timeless hits to Oakland, Sacramento, and San Jose.

From commercial jingles to chart-topping singles, Manilow’s journey is a testament to unexpected stardom. Before becoming a pop sensation, he crafted memorable commercial tunes for brands like State Farm and Pepsi - including the iconic State Farm jingle that still plays today. His breakthrough came with the 1974 hit “Mandy,” transforming him from a background musician to a global superstar.

Manilow’s career has been defined by authenticity and emotional connection. “People see me on stage and know this guy is real,” he reflects. His performances aren’t just concerts but emotional journeys, where he aims to help audiences forget their troubles for 90 magical minutes.

Beyond pop music, Manilow expanded his artistic repertoire by becoming a Broadway composer with his musical “Harmony” in 2023. He continues to create, currently working on an album of original songs he describes as “classic” - a reflection of his enduring musical style.

For Bay Area fans, these concerts represent more than just a performance - they’re a heartfelt goodbye from an artist who has soundtracked generations. With shows at Oakland Arena and SAP Center, Manilow promises to deliver the same passionate performance that has defined his legendary career.

While he jokes about “not coming back,” Manilow’s impact on music remains indelible. His farewell tour isn’t an ending, but a celebration of a remarkable musical journey that has touched millions.