Barry Manilow FINALLY Breaks Silence On His Love Affair Garry Kief

Barry Manilow – a name that has become a symbol of the global music scene, with timeless love songs and a voice full of emotion. For decades, he has captivated millions of fans not only with his talent but also with his warmth and generosity. Yet behind the dazzling stage lights, Barry carried a secret for nearly 40 years – a secret about the man he truly loved.

A Humble Childhood and the First Steps in Music

Barry Manilow was born on June 17, 1943, in Brooklyn, New York, as Barry Alan Pincus. His family had a unique cultural blend: his father was of Irish descent, while his mother came from a traditional Jewish family. When Barry was still a baby, his parents divorced, leaving a void in his early childhood.

Growing up in the vibrant Williamsburg neighborhood, Barry soon discovered his passion for music. After graduating high school in 1961, he enrolled at the City College of New York, later transferring to the New York College of Music. To make ends meet, Barry worked at CBS while continuing his studies at the prestigious Juilliard School of Performing Arts, where he honed his musical skills.

From Jingles to the Big Stage

In the 1960s, Barry began his career composing advertising jingles – a seemingly modest path that taught him valuable lessons. He wrote and sang catchy tunes for major brands like McDonald’s, Pepsi, State Farm, and Dr. Pepper. Barry once said: “Writing jingles taught me how to create melodies that stick – short, simple, and memorable.”

A major milestone came when he worked with Bro Herrod on the musical The Drunkard, composing the entire score and contributing to the show’s eight-year run Off-Broadway. Soon after, he became the music director for the television show Callback, collaborating with several big names in entertainment.

The Turning Point: Meeting Bette Midler and a Debut Album

In 1971, singer Bette Midler discovered Barry’s talent and invited him to be her pianist at the Continental Baths. This partnership opened new doors: Barry not only played music but also produced Bette’s first two albums – The Divine Miss M and Bette Midler. His work earned him a Grammy nomination for Album of the Year in 1973.

That same year, Bell Records released Barry’s first solo album, Barry Manilow. While it didn’t make a huge splash at first, it featured early gems like Could It Be Magic, which would later become one of his signature hits.

Fame, Spotlight, and a Hidden Truth

As Barry’s career soared with hits like Mandy, Copacabana, and Can’t Smile Without You, he became the ultimate romantic balladeer of the 1970s and 1980s. But behind the applause, Barry lived with a deep fear – the fear that people would find out he was gay.

Back then, the world was far less accepting. Barry believed that revealing his sexuality could cost him millions of fans, especially women who adored him as the “prince of love songs.” So he chose silence, hiding an essential part of who he was.

Gary Keefe – The Man Behind the Music

In 1978, at a party in Los Angeles, Barry met Gary Keefe, a television executive. Gary became more than a partner; he became Barry’s rock, his confidant, and eventually his manager. Together, they built a love that endured for nearly four decades – a love they had to keep in the shadows.

To avoid attention, even when buying a mansion in Palm Springs, Barry didn’t use his name or Gary’s. Instead, they registered the property under a friend’s name. Every step was calculated to protect their secret.

A Secret Wedding and the Big Reveal

In 2014, after same-sex marriage became legal in California, Barry and Gary held a small, private wedding at their home. Yet, they kept the news under wraps until 2015, when Suzanne Somers accidentally revealed it to the press. At first, Barry was shocked and worried about fan backlash. But to his surprise, the reaction was overwhelmingly positive.

In 2017, Barry publicly came out in an interview with People Magazine, admitting that he had been afraid of losing fans but now felt happier than ever. He said: “The fans have been amazing. I wish I had done this sooner.”

From Artist to Advocate

After years of secrecy, Barry used his voice to spread messages of love and acceptance. He has quietly donated to LGBTQ+ organizations, supported AIDS relief efforts, and helped underprivileged children gain access to music. He even spoke before the U.S. Congress to defend artists’ rights.

Barry Manilow is not only a music legend but also a symbol of courage. His story proves that true happiness doesn’t come from fame – it comes from living authentically and embracing who you are.

The Message That Lasts Forever

Today, Barry Manilow and Gary Keefe live peacefully in Palm Springs with their beloved dogs, enjoying serenity after years of storms. Their story inspires millions: It’s never too late to be true to yourself and to fight for love.

Barry Manilow didn’t just sing about love – he showed the world that love is worth everything, even if it takes a lifetime to share it.