“Rain” by Barry Manilow

• Artist: Barry Manilow
• Album: If I Should Love Again
• Release Date: 1981
• Genre: Pop, Soft Rock
• Label: Arista Records
• Writers: Barry Manilow, Keith Diamond

Song Details

• Themes: “Rain” is a poignant ballad that delves into themes of longing, heartbreak, and emotional turmoil. The lyrics use the metaphor of rain to symbolize sadness and the feeling of being overwhelmed by emotions.
• Musical Style: The song features a soft rock and pop sound, characteristic of Barry Manilow’s music during the early 1980s. It includes lush orchestration, smooth vocals, and a melancholic melody.

Notable Features

• Vocals: Barry Manilow’s emotive voice delivers the song with heartfelt sincerity, capturing the essence of the song’s emotional weight.
• Instrumentation: The arrangement includes piano, strings, and a subtle rhythm section, creating a dramatic and evocative atmosphere that complements the lyrical content.
• Lyrics: The lyrics of “Rain” are reflective and introspective, exploring the deep feelings of loss and yearning:
  

  And it looks like rain
  And it feels like rain
  Like the tears that fall from my eyes

Reception

• Critical Response: “Rain” was well-received by fans and critics, praised for its emotional depth and Manilow’s expressive performance. It demonstrated his ability to convey complex emotions through his music.
• Commercial Performance: While not released as a single, “Rain” is a beloved track among Barry Manilow’s fans and is often included in compilations of his greatest hits.

Legacy

• Live Performances: “Rain” is occasionally performed in Barry Manilow’s live concerts, where it resonates with audiences due to its poignant and relatable lyrics.
• Impact on Career: The song contributed to the overall success of the If I Should Love Again album, which solidified Barry Manilow’s status as a leading pop and soft rock artist in the early 1980s.

Lyrics Excerpt

And it looks like rain
And it feels like rain
Like the tears that fall from my eyes
And it looks like rain
And it feels like rain
Oh, the tears that fall from my eyes

Additional Information

• Album Context: If I Should Love Again is Barry Manilow’s eighth studio album, released in 1981. “Rain” is one of the standout tracks on the album, showcasing Manilow’s signature style of heartfelt balladry.
• Songwriting: Co-written by Barry Manilow and Keith Diamond, “Rain” highlights Manilow’s ability to collaborate with other talented songwriters to create memorable and emotionally resonant music.