By admin 
Released in 1978 as part of Barry Manilow’s iconic Even Now album, “They Dance!” stands out as a vibrant fusion of pop, jazz, and adult contemporary styles that perfectly encapsulates the celebratory spirit of music and movement. From its opening lively, rhythmic melody, the track instantly immerses listeners into a world where dance is not just an activity, but a joyful expression of freedom and unity.
Barry Manilow’s masterful musicianship is on full display throughout “They Dance!” His powerful vocals soar with effortless grace, matched perfectly by his virtuosic piano work that leads a dynamic arrangement featuring a vibrant horn section and driving percussion. The intricate phrasing and tempo shifts echo his exceptional talent as both a vocalist and showman, injecting every line with exuberance and infectious energy.
“Barry’s ability to convey pure joy through his vocals in ‘They Dance!’ is unparalleled. His showmanship truly makes the song come alive,” says Linda Greenfield, a longtime fan and music critic renowned for her expertise in 1970s pop music.
Lyrically, the song serves as a poignant celebration of the transcendental power of music and dance to unite people from all walks of life. The vivid imagery transports listeners into the scenes of everyday individuals who shed their daytime identities—typist by day, auto mechanic by day—and embrace an electrifying transformation once night falls. They glide across the ballroom with grace, embodying legendary dance icons, and in these moments, the world is theirs.
“As a dance instructor, I’ve seen how ‘They Dance!’ inspires people to lose themselves and connect with others through movement. Barry captures that magic perfectly,” shares Miguel Alvarez, a professional ballroom dancer and choreographer based in New York City.
The song narrates the contrast between the routine and the exhilarating — by day, roles are confined and restrained, but come nightfall, these characters step into dazzling personas. They become Ginger Rogers and Fred Astaire, John Travolta and Janet Jackson, Antonio Banderas and Ann Miller—embodying the romantic, glamorous essence of dance icons while escaping the monotony of their daily grind.
“I remember my parents telling me how ‘They Dance!’ was not just a song but a feeling that brought families and communities together at celebrations,” recalls Sarah Johnson, a cultural historian specializing in music’s role in social gatherings.
The uplifting, feel-good energy of “They Dance!” ensures its lasting popularity not just as a recorded track but as a highlight of Manilow’s live performances. Fans continue to rally around it decades later, drawn to its joyous anthem celebrating the universal human experience of finding liberation and connection through dance.
“Performing ‘They Dance!’ live always brings an incredible response from the audience. It’s amazing how a song from 1978 still resonates so powerfully,” shares Barry Manilow himself during a recent interview reflecting on his career.
The song’s lyrics unfold like a cinematic narrative, detailing the secret nighttime world where these everyday people reveal their hidden passions on the dance floor. The storytelling combines a nearly theatrical flair with heartfelt emotion, inviting listeners to celebrate their own inner dancers.
In essence, “They Dance!” is more than just a song — it is Barry Manilow’s vibrant and exuberant masterpiece that highlights his exceptional artistry. It stands as a testament to his ability to craft infectious, celebratory anthems that transcend eras and speak to the joy found in music’s rhythm and the dance floor’s embrace.
Lyrics Excerpt:
During the day
She’s a full-time typist
At the computer
And on the phone
During the day
He’s an auto-mechanic
Punchin’ a time clock
And livin’ alone
But at night
In the dark
When the sun goes down
Yes, at night
Night is when they
Go to town!
Video
https://youtube.com/watch?v=UT5kqqfBL-M%3Fsi%3DW7tqJCs_4S-_OWw1