INTRODUCTION
In late 1980, Barry Manilow gathered with longtime lyricists Bruce Sussman and Jack Feldman to craft a wonderfully unconventional pop record. Stepping away from grand heartbreak ballads, they decided to tackle urban folklore with pure theatrical wit, weaving sunny island arrangements around an ominous ocean legend. Why did a feared maritime vortex inspire such an irresistibly joyful and clever radio classic?
THE DETAILED STORY
By 1980, Barry Manilow had already established himself as a master of both towering pop ballads and vibrant theatrical storytelling. Following the massive global triumph of his Latin inspired classic “Copacabana,” Manilow reunited with his frequent creative partners, lyricists Bruce Sussman and Jack Feldman, alongside producer Ron Dante. For his seventh studio album, simply titled “Barry,” the accomplished team sought a playful narrative that could blend popular mystery folklore with theatrical humor and exuberant Caribbean musical styles.
The lyrical narrative unfolds like a miniature three act musical comedy set against an exotic tropical getaway. An anxious protagonist argues with his romantic partner about prospective vacation destinations, expressing absolute dread over traveling near the infamous Atlantic vortex where ships and airplanes mysteriously vanish. Upon arriving at the sunlit beach, his worst fears materialize not through supernatural disappearance, but through sudden romantic betrayal when his lover runs off with a handsome stranger. However, in a brilliant comedic reversal, another charming woman immediately approaches his towel, leading him to gleefully conclude that the dreaded Bermuda Triangle is not so bad after all.
Musically, the composition represents a sophisticated masterclass in dynamic pop craft and thematic arrangement. Beneath its cheerful calypso rhythm, sparkling island percussion, acoustic strums, and bright horn flourishes, Manilow weaves intricate harmonic architecture. The track employs brisk tonicizations and melodic movement through the cycle of fifths, giving the narrative continuous forward momentum. In a stroke of theatrical genius, the arrangement abruptly shifts into the tonic minor key the moment the protagonist discovers his partner has vanished, musically mimicking impending doom before joyfully bursting back into major key tropical celebration as romantic fortune turns in his favor.
Released internationally as a single in 1981, “Bermuda Triangle” became a substantial hit across Europe, climbing to number 15 on the UK Singles Chart and achieving strong chart runs in Germany and Ireland. Over the decades, it evolved into an indelible fan favorite and showstopper during Manilow’s legendary live concerts, from the Royal Albert Hall to arena stages worldwide. With its sparkling self awareness, rich vocal harmonies, and irresistible groove, the track remains an enduring testament to Manilow’s unique ability to transform eccentric storytelling and pure musicality into unforgettable pop entertainment.