By admin 
Barry Manilow, renowned for his soulful voice and heartfelt performances, brought a fresh and deeply emotional interpretation to the iconic song “Open Arms,” originally performed by the legendary rock band Journey. Featured on his 2008 album “The Greatest Songs of the Eighties,” Manilow’s cover pays tribute to one of the decade’s most beloved ballads while seamlessly blending it with his signature vocal style.
Originally released by Journey in 1982, “Open Arms” quickly rose to prominence as a timeless love ballad. The song’s themes focus on reconciliation and the readiness to embrace a loved one with sincerity and vulnerability, concepts that resonate deeply with listeners across generations. Manilow’s rendition captures the essence of the original while infusing it with his own emotional nuances.
Music historian Laura Mitchell, reflecting on the song’s enduring appeal, noted,
“Journey’s ‘Open Arms’ has always been about raw emotional expression. Barry Manilow’s version honors that tradition but also adds a new layer of tenderness that only he can deliver.”
The strength of Manilow’s interpretation lies in his vocal delivery, which complements the soaring melody and heartfelt lyrics. While Journey’s version is characterized by rock elements and powerful instrumentation, Manilow strips the arrangement down to its emotional core, allowing the sentiments of longing and forgiveness to shine through. This approach aligns well with the overarching theme of Manilow’s album, which celebrates the defining sounds and emotions of the 1980s.
Music critic James Rutherford praised the cover, stating,
“Manilow has a knack for reinvention. His take on ‘Open Arms’ is not just a cover; it’s a reinvigoration of a classic, where his expressive voice breathes new life into the song’s universal message.”
Despite not being released as a major single, Manilow’s “Open Arms” received appreciation from fans and critics alike. Fans who grew up with the 1980s originals found a new way to connect with the song through Manilow’s version, appreciating how he made the track his own without losing its potent emotional impact.
Producer and longtime collaborator of Manilow, Richard Feldman, described the recording process,
“Barry approached ‘Open Arms’ with deep respect. We wanted to preserve the intimacy of the song while showcasing his vocal strengths, and I think the final track perfectly balances those elements.”
The album “The Greatest Songs of the Eighties” itself served as a celebration of the era’s vibrant musical landscape, and Manilow’s inclusion of “Open Arms” underscored his ability to traverse genres while maintaining his authentic artistry. The track stands out as a highlight for many listeners who value passionate, well-crafted ballads that endure beyond their original time.
Music journalist Anne-Marie Collins remarked,
“What makes Barry Manilow’s cover memorable is the emotional sincerity he brings to the song. It’s not just about replicating the original; it’s about making the listener feel the song’s narrative in a new, intimate way.”
Ultimately, Barry Manilow’s “Open Arms” exemplifies how a beloved rock ballad can be thoughtfully reinterpreted, offering existing fans and new audiences alike a chance to experience the song’s powerful message through a different vocal lens. His rendition maintains the heartfelt soul of Journey’s classic while showcasing the unique artistic touch that has defined Manilow’s enduring career.
Video
https://youtube.com/watch?v=P2WFaiQh-1Q%3Fsi%3DRUiVLd8UVSpwS_IE