3 days ago
He Wrote The Songs: Beloved Crooner's Magical 'Last Detroit Concert'
He Wrote The Songs: Beloved Crooner's Magical 'Last Detroit Concert' originally appeared on Parade.
It was a special evening in the Motor City on Tuesday, June 3 as graced the stage at Little Caesars Arena for his "Last Detroit Concert." For his devoted "Fanilows," this was their opportunity to share one more night with the music icon whose career has provided the soundtrack to their lives for five incredible decades.
As part of his current "The Last Concerts" tour, the 81-year-old entertainer, still exuding his signature charm and boundless energy, delivered a performance that was everything fans had hoped for. Backed by his 13-member band – a powerhouse of ten instrumentalists and three dynamic backup singers – Manilow rolled out a string of his most beloved, chart-topping hits. The arena was soon filled with the familiar notes of classics like the upbeat "It's a Miracle," the ballad "Mandy," the ever-popular story of "Copacabana (At the Copa)," as well as the favorite "Can't Smile Without You."
The night offered more than just a trip down memory lane with his classic songs. In a segment of the show, after a rendition of 'Could It Be Magic,' Manilow was honored with a special on-stage presentation. Six faculty members from Chicago's VanderCook College of Music, dressed in traditional academic caps and gowns, stepped forward. (VanderCook is the only college in the entire US that dedicates itself solely to training music educators.)
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The academics were there to bestow an honor upon the superstar: an honorary Doctor of Music Education Honoris Causa. The president of VanderCook College of Music, explained the college's decision, citing Manilow's 'enduring dedication to music education.' She added warmly that this passionate commitment 'resonates deeply with our mission.'
With a career boasting Grammy, Tony, and Emmy Awards, and an astounding 85 million records sold worldwide, Manilow had made it known that this Detroit show was indeed a final tour stop for the city. While he continues his ongoing hit residency in Las Vegas, this performance on June 3rd was the last scheduled chance for his Detroit fanbase to experience his electrifying arena show in their hometown as part of this tour.
He Wrote The Songs: Beloved Crooner's Magical 'Last Detroit Concert' first appeared on Parade on Jun 4, 2025
This story was originally reported by Parade on Jun 4, 2025, where it first appeared.
