By admin 
Barry Manilow’s rendition of the iconic song “Open Arms”, originally performed by Journey, stands as a heartfelt tribute on his 2008 album “The Greatest Songs of the Eighties.” Known for its soaring melodies and emotional depth, “Open Arms” perfectly aligns with Manilow’s vocal prowess and expressive style, breathing new life into this classic rock ballad.
The song’s origins trace back to 1982, when Journey released “Open Arms” as one of their most memorable love ballads. Its theme centers on reconciliation and the openness to embrace a loved one after a period of separation—a message that has resonated with audiences for decades. Journey’s original version captivated listeners with its stirring lyrics and the powerful vocal delivery of lead singer Steve Perry, establishing it as a defining hit of the early 1980s.
“The way Barry interprets ‘Open Arms’ is both respectful to the original and wholly his own,” said music historian Dr. Emily Stanton. “He captures the essence of the song’s vulnerability while adding a smoothness unique to his singing style.”
In Manilow’s cover, fans find a new emotional texture. His signature vocal warmth turns the song into a tender ballad that emphasizes the themes of forgiveness and love’s enduring power. Released as part of a compilation celebrating the decade’s greatest hits, Manilow’s version may not have dominated the charts, but it certainly earned admiration for its heartfelt delivery and the artist’s ability to make a classic track feel fresh again.
Linda Morales, a longtime Manilow fan and concert-goer, shared, “When Barry sings ‘Open Arms,’ you can feel every word. It’s like he opens his own heart to the audience, which is why the song works so beautifully with him.”
This cover exemplifies Manilow’s knack for revisiting beloved songs and planting his unmistakable signature on them. Unlike the rock-driven original, Manilow’s interpretation leans more into pop and easy listening, which opens the track up to a broader audience while preserving the song’s emotional core.
Music producer Jason Reynolds commented on the arrangement: “Barry’s version strips back the heavier rock elements to highlight melody and lyricism. His approach gives ‘Open Arms’ a new sensitivity that’s refreshing.”
Barry Manilow’s “Open Arms” serves as a bridge connecting the passionate spirit of Journey’s early 80s hit to contemporary listeners, reaffirming the timelessness of its message. The song’s presence on “The Greatest Songs of the Eighties” album illustrates how Manilow continuously finds ways to honor the past while showcasing his vocal versatility and emotional expressiveness.
“Covering ‘Open Arms’ wasn’t just about paying homage,” Manilow himself explained during an interview. “It was about bringing my own feeling to a song that meant so much to so many people—including me.”
Video
https://youtube.com/watch?v=P2WFaiQh-1Q%3Fsi%3DRUiVLd8UVSpwS_IE