At Barry Manilow with mom … and I am WINNING MOTHER’S DAY #MomManilowDate
— Nick Miller (@NickMiller916) April 18, 2015
My goal was to give my mom the gift of a dozen Mother’s Days. Something that would endure—and get me off the hook through at least 2027.
When I saw that Barry Manilow’s farewell tour planned a stop in Sacramento, I knew the Barry was the ticket to Mother’s Day legend status. Apologies to my two brothers, but I got this.
Shot of whisky from Japan and a Rainier to get that good head change before Manilow #MomManilowDate pic.twitter.com/x4cVOANWHJ
— Nick Miller (@NickMiller916) April 18, 2015
It was crucial to dial in the right frame of mind before Barry. I mean, this would be his last concert ever in Sacramento (right, Cher?). I grew up with the guy, unfortunately. My mom would blast his records and vacuum—at the same time. That’s some jacked up shit.
Oh shiiiit #MomManilowDate pic.twitter.com/SZPKjBxtNd
— Nick Miller (@NickMiller916) April 18, 2015
Someone once told me that you’re not allowed to listen to the band you’re about to see in concert on the ride to the concert. That rule gets tossed when it comes to the Barry, apparently.
The Barry has landed … soon #MomManilowDate pic.twitter.com/7sZL1ydVLN
— Nick Miller (@NickMiller916) April 18, 2015
An estimated 7,000 purchased tickets for the Barry at the venue formerly known as Arco Arena. Dude’s taking home some serious coin!
If u only knew what I’m going thru #MomManilowDate pic.twitter.com/uucGQVMo1L
— Nick Miller (@NickMiller916) April 18, 2015
The ushers working Arco never had this much fun. They’re dancing and singing and no one can find their seats!
Dave Koz, the poor man’s Kenny G, comes out to accompany The Barry and my mom is pumped.
Barry says wouldn’t be here if he didnt join high school orchestra. Donated a piano today to high school in Sacramento #MomManilowDate #hero
— Nick Miller (@NickMiller916) April 18, 2015
This is when Barry plays a ballad, “I am Your Child,” and my mom straight up cries for the third of fourth time tonight already.
Woman near me comparing Barry Manilow cry stories. “I cry when I see him on TV.” “I cried walking in here!” #MomManilowDate
— Nick Miller (@NickMiller916) April 18, 2015
So many tears. During “When Will I Hold You Again,” my mom starts dueting with woman next to me, then they compare Manilow cry stories.
I’m out of beer.
Barry writes the songs … and Sac State choir comes out #MomManilowDate pic.twitter.com/LxXy6Pge5M
— Nick Miller (@NickMiller916) April 18, 2015
Sac State’s choir joins his 12-person backing band for the closer, “Copacabana.” Streamer explode on cue and dress the crowd in streams of color. Shit is nuts like Kaskade at Coachella, but for Boomers turnt up on pinot grigio.
Definitely a memorable gig—from what I can remember (thank you, live Tweets).
See you in a year or two, Barry!
