About the song
Barry Manilow – Ready to Take a Chance Again: A Romantic Anthem of Hope and Renewal
Few artists have captured the essence of romance and longing quite like Barry Manilow. With his signature heartfelt delivery and sweeping melodies, Manilow has built a career on songs that evoke deep emotion and nostalgia. Ready to Take a Chance Again, one of his most beloved tracks, perfectly embodies this timeless appeal. Released in 1978, the song became a defining piece of Manilow’s repertoire, cementing his status as a master of sentimental, yet powerful, pop ballads.
Written by Charles Fox and Norman Gimbel, Ready to Take a Chance Again was originally recorded for the soundtrack of Foul Play, a comedy thriller starring Goldie Hawn and Chevy Chase. The song’s cinematic origins are evident in its lush orchestration and grand, sweeping arrangement. From the gentle piano introduction to the soaring chorus, every note feels like it belongs in the climactic moment of a romantic film—fitting, given that Manilow has always had a knack for making songs feel larger than life.
Lyrically, the song tells the story of someone who has been hurt in love but is finally ready to open their heart again. It’s a theme that resonates deeply with many listeners, as it captures the universal experience of healing from past heartbreak and finding the courage to embrace love once more. Manilow’s warm, emotive voice delivers the lyrics with sincerity, making the song feel personal and relatable. His ability to balance vulnerability with optimism is what makes Ready to Take a Chance Again so enduring.
The song achieved significant success upon its release, earning Manilow a nomination for Best Original Song at the Academy Awards. It also became a hit on the Billboard charts, further solidifying his reputation as one of the era’s premier vocalists and performers.
Even decades later, Ready to Take a Chance Again remains a cherished classic. It captures the bittersweet journey of love—one filled with both loss and hope—and delivers it with the elegance and emotional depth that only Barry Manilow can provide. Whether you’re rediscovering it or hearing it for the first time, this song is a reminder that sometimes, taking a chance on love is the most rewarding risk of all.