About the song
“Brooklyn Blues” by Barry Manilow, from his 1987 album Swing Street, is a soulful and introspective song that resonates deeply with fans of both pop and jazz. Barry Manilow, known for his signature ballads like “Mandy” and “Can’t Smile Without You,” steps into a bluesier, jazz-infused sound with this track, showcasing his versatility as a musician. Written by Barry Manilow himself and Bruce Sussman, a long-time collaborator, “Brooklyn Blues” reflects a personal and nostalgic journey through Manilow’s memories of growing up in Brooklyn, New York.
The song is driven by smooth saxophone lines, prominently featuring jazz legend Gerry Mulligan, whose performance adds an authentic blues feel to the track. The instrumentation blends traditional blues with modern pop, creating a reflective atmosphere that suits the song’s theme of yearning and remembrance. The lyrics speak to the sense of longing for a place that has changed over time, capturing the emotional tug between the past and the present. This element of nostalgia is a recurring theme in Manilow’s music, but “Brooklyn Blues” uniquely intertwines it with the rich cultural backdrop of Brooklyn, a place known for its diversity and vibrant musical history.
Though “Brooklyn Blues” didn’t reach the same commercial heights as some of Manilow’s earlier hits, it has maintained a special place among his dedicated fan base. The song charted modestly, but its emotional depth and musical sophistication made it a standout on the Swing Street album. For listeners, “Brooklyn Blues” is more than just a song—it’s a reflective piece that evokes the complexities of life’s changes, wrapped in the soulful sounds of a timeless genre.