About the song
Lost in the Magic: Rediscovering Barry Manilow – Bermuda Triangle (1980)
When listeners think back on the late 1970s and early 1980s, one of the most recognizable voices of that era belongs to Barry Manilow. Known for his flair for storytelling through song, Manilow had a remarkable ability to combine theatrical arrangements with radio-friendly melodies that appealed to a wide audience. Among his many recordings, Barry Manilow – Bermuda Triangle (1980) stands out as a curious, playful, and slightly mysterious entry in his catalog—one that demonstrates his talent for weaving humor, intrigue, and catchy rhythm into a single performance.
Released as part of the album Barry, the track draws inspiration from the popular fascination with the Bermuda Triangle—a subject that had captured public imagination throughout the 1970s. Books, films, and documentaries speculated about ships and planes mysteriously disappearing in that stretch of the Atlantic Ocean, and Manilow cleverly tapped into this cultural moment. Instead of treating the theme with heavy drama, he gave it a lighthearted spin, crafting a song that feels both theatrical and tongue-in-cheek.
Musically, Barry Manilow – Bermuda Triangle (1980) blends elements of pop and calypso-infused rhythms, giving the track a breezy, tropical atmosphere. The arrangement is rich with vibrant percussion, playful keyboard lines, and Manilow’s unmistakable vocal delivery—expressive, dramatic, and always aware of the humor embedded in the lyrics. The chorus, in particular, is designed to stay with the listener, inviting sing-along moments that make it one of those songs people recall fondly when looking back at Manilow’s career.
What makes this recording especially memorable is its theatrical quality. Manilow never shied away from injecting personality into his music, and here he treats the Bermuda Triangle not just as a place of mystery, but as a metaphor for life’s unpredictable detours. The song becomes a celebration of whimsy, showing how music can take a topical subject and transform it into entertainment that still feels timeless.
For longtime fans, Barry Manilow – Bermuda Triangle (1980) represents a charming reminder of his versatility. It is playful, rhythmic, and full of character—a snapshot of an artist who knew how to turn even the most unlikely theme into a musical adventure. More than four decades later, the track still delights, proving that Manilow’s gift was not only in ballads but also in his ability to make us smile, tap our feet, and enjoy the ride.