About the song
Title: Love Lost at Sea: The Playful Melancholy of Barry Manilow – Bermuda Triangle (1980)
Some songs manage to blend heartache with humor, turning personal misfortune into something unexpectedly charming. That’s exactly the balancing act at play in Barry Manilow – Bermuda Triangle (1980)—a clever, catchy tune that uses the mystery of the infamous region as a metaphor for the unpredictability of relationships. With his trademark flair, Manilow crafts a story that’s both light-hearted and oddly relatable, especially for those who’ve weathered a few emotional storms of their own.
Released in 1980, this song stands apart from many of Manilow’s more serious ballads. Instead of leaning into grand romance or nostalgic yearning, Barry Manilow – Bermuda Triangle (1980) delivers something a little different: a whimsical take on how quickly things can go wrong when love is involved. Using the legendary triangle—known for causing ships and planes to disappear—as a symbol, Manilow wittily explores how partners can just as easily vanish emotionally, especially when attention starts to drift elsewhere.
The music itself mirrors the playfulness of the lyrics. It’s upbeat, with a tropical flair that reflects the song’s exotic setting. There are steel drums and rhythmic piano patterns that give it a breezy, Caribbean-inspired feel. But beneath the cheerful sound, there’s a subtle note of frustration. Our narrator isn’t just amused—he’s genuinely baffled by how often he seems to “lose” the one he loves whenever they get too close to that metaphorical Bermuda Triangle.
What makes the song especially appealing to more seasoned listeners is how it doesn’t take itself too seriously. It’s witty without being cynical, and self-aware without being heavy-handed. Manilow’s smooth vocals guide the listener through this musical misadventure with charm and a touch of theatrical flair.
Barry Manilow – Bermuda Triangle (1980) reminds us that sometimes, even in matters of the heart, a sense of humor can be the most powerful life raft. It’s a song that invites you to smile through the confusion—and maybe even dance a little while you’re at it.