About the song
A Song from the Heart: The Enduring Beauty of Barry Manilow – This One’s for You
Some songs have a way of reaching deep into our hearts, carrying messages of love, gratitude, and reflection. Barry Manilow – This One’s for You is one such song—a heartfelt ballad that stands as a tribute to the people who shape our lives and leave a lasting impact. With its soaring melody, rich orchestration, and deeply emotional lyrics, this track remains one of Manilow’s most touching and personal recordings.
Released in 1976 as the title track of his album This One’s for You, the song quickly resonated with listeners. Barry Manilow was already becoming a household name at the time, known for his ability to craft emotionally powerful music that connected with audiences on a personal level. This song was no exception. It embodies everything that made Manilow a legend—his ability to blend beautiful melodies with lyrics that feel both intimate and universal.
Lyrically, This One’s for You is a song of appreciation and remembrance. It speaks of someone who was once a central figure in the singer’s life—perhaps a lost love, a dear friend, or even a family member—someone who is no longer present but whose influence remains. The words carry a sense of longing, but they are also filled with gratitude, making it a song that many listeners can relate to in their own personal way.
The arrangement of the song is classic Manilow—gentle piano chords leading into a swelling orchestral backing, building in intensity as the emotion in his voice deepens. His signature vocal delivery, full of warmth and sincerity, gives the song a deeply personal touch, as if he is speaking directly to the listener. This quality is part of what has made Barry Manilow such a beloved artist across generations.
Decades later, This One’s for You remains a song that people turn to when remembering those who have meant the most to them. Whether it’s played in moments of reflection, tribute, or simply as a reminder of the power of music to express emotions words alone cannot, it continues to be one of Manilow’s most cherished classics. If you haven’t listened to it in a while, take a moment, close your eyes, and let it remind you of the people who have shaped your life.