Barbie Ferreira New Album: What A Time Release Date Revealed

Barry Manilow is preparing to release his first studio album in fifteen years, What A Time, on June 5th. The announcement, made on March 23rd, 2026, includes a collaboration with Take That’s Gary Barlow on a single titled “Sun Shine,” already available for streaming. For a performer whose career has spanned decades and amassed 85 million albums sold worldwide, this marks a significant moment – a return to predominantly original material after a thirteen-year gap.

A New Chapter for a Pop Icon

The album, Manilow’s 33rd, arrives after a period of unprecedented success in Las Vegas. In 2023, he surpassed Elvis Presley’s record for the most shows performed in the city, a testament to his enduring appeal and dedicated fanbase. As reported by the Evening Standard, the 82-year-old singer is also preparing for a UK tour in June, with dates scheduled in London, Glasgow, Cardiff, Leeds, Liverpool, and Birmingham.

What A Time isn’t a solo effort. Manilow collaborated with a diverse group of producers and songwriters, including Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds and nine-time Grammy winner Dave Cobb, alongside longtime co-writers Bruce Sussman and Adrienne Anderson. This blend of experience and fresh perspectives is intended to infuse Manilow’s signature “melodic grandeur” with “fresh textures and stylistic turns,” according to his label. The album promises a range of sounds, from classic torch songs to R&B and even touches of heartland rock and gospel.

Beyond “Mandy”: A Career Retrospective

Barry Manilow’s impact on popular music extends far beyond his most recognizable hits. Emerging in the 1970s, he quickly became a defining voice of the era, known for his emotive ballads and theatrical stage presence. His breakthrough came with “Mandy” in 1974, followed by a string of successes including “Copacabana (At The Copa)” and “I Wanna Do It With You.” Billboard notes that Manilow has achieved seven UK top 10 albums, including a number one with Barry Live In Britain, and one UK top 10 single with “I Wanna Do It With You.”

Throughout his career, Manilow has consistently reinvented himself, exploring different musical styles and embracing new technologies. He’s earned a Grammy, a Tony, and an Emmy Award, solidifying his status as a multi-talented entertainer. His 2011 album, 15 Minutes, was his most recent collection of primarily original songs before What A Time, debuting at No. 7 on the Billboard 200.

The Barlow Connection and a Modern Sound

The inclusion of Gary Barlow, known for his work with Take That and as a successful solo artist, adds an intriguing dimension to the project. “Sun Shine,” co-written by Manilow and Barlow, is described as a “radiant, feel-good” single. According to Manilow’s official website, the song was produced by Manilow, David Benson and Greg Bartheld. The single’s retro vibe, complete with a whistling break and the simulated sound of a vinyl record, suggests a deliberate nod to Manilow’s musical roots while incorporating contemporary production techniques.

This collaboration speaks to Manilow’s willingness to engage with artists from different generations, potentially broadening his appeal to a new audience. Barlow’s songwriting prowess and pop sensibility could bring a fresh energy to Manilow’s established sound.

Industry Context: Album Rollouts in 2026

The June 5th release date places What A Time squarely within the peak spring/summer album season. The strategy of releasing a single in advance, as Manilow has done with “Sun Shine,” is standard practice, designed to build anticipation and gauge audience response. The album is available for pre-order on CD and vinyl, as well as for pre-save on streaming platforms, reflecting the evolving landscape of music consumption. The simultaneous push for physical sales and streaming numbers indicates a comprehensive marketing approach aimed at maximizing reach.

What’s on the Horizon

Following the album release, Manilow’s focus will shift to his UK tour. The dates, spanning June, will provide an opportunity to showcase the new material alongside his classic hits. The tour’s success could further solidify Manilow’s position as a live performance powerhouse and potentially lead to additional international dates. Fans can find more information about the tour and album pre-orders on Barry Manilow’s official website. The 13-track album is available for pre-order now, offering fans a first glimpse into this new chapter of a remarkable career.