About the song
A Heartfelt Ballad of Reassurance: Barry Manilow – Please Don’t Be Scared
Few artists can convey deep emotion through song quite like Barry Manilow, and his touching ballad Please Don’t Be Scared is a perfect example of his gift for storytelling through music. Released as part of his 1989 album Barry Manilow, this song stands out as one of his most tender and reassuring love songs, offering comfort and warmth to anyone who has ever felt uncertain or afraid in a relationship. With its heartfelt lyrics and Manilow’s signature expressive vocals, this ballad continues to resonate with listeners, especially those who appreciate music that speaks directly to the heart.
From the very first notes, Please Don’t Be Scared sets an intimate and soothing tone. The soft piano introduction gently leads into Manilow’s warm, reassuring voice, instantly drawing the listener in. Unlike his more theatrical hits, this song thrives on its simplicity, allowing the lyrics and melody to take center stage. The arrangement builds gradually, adding layers of strings and soft percussion, but never overpowering the song’s delicate emotional core.
Lyrically, the song is a message of unwavering love and support. Manilow sings to someone who is struggling with doubt and fear, offering reassurance that they are not alone. Lines like “Please don’t be scared, ‘cause I will be there” encapsulate the song’s central theme: the promise of unconditional love and stability. The beauty of this song lies in its universality—it speaks to anyone who has ever needed reassurance from a loved one, making it deeply personal and relatable.
At the time of its release, Please Don’t Be Scared may not have reached the commercial heights of some of Manilow’s earlier classics, but it remains a fan favorite among those who cherish his more introspective and heartfelt work. His ability to blend sincerity with a timeless melody is what has kept his music relevant for decades. This song, in particular, highlights why Manilow has remained one of the most beloved balladeers of his generation.
Listening to Barry Manilow – Please Don’t Be Scared feels like receiving a warm embrace through music. It’s a song that reminds us of the power of love, the importance of reassurance, and the beauty of standing by someone no matter what. Whether you’re revisiting it for nostalgia or hearing it for the first time, this heartfelt ballad remains a timeless piece of Manilow’s musical legacy.