I think of Barry Manilow as one of the last old-style Tin Pan Alley songwriters. As put in oneof his biographies, "unlike many of his MOR peers, Manilow wasn't aiming to make smooth, restrained background music -- he conceived of himself as a pop entertainer and all-around showman in the classic mold, and his performances and stage shows were accordingly theatrical."
He made a living (and a good one) writing advertising jingles (State Farm, Dr. Pepper, McDonald's, Kentucky Fried Chicken, and more) then became pianist, arranger and music director for Bette Midler, before she was THE Bette Midler. I've always liked "Weekend in New England" myself.
As for John Denver he wrote some beautiful songs; he's one of those singer songwriters I can and occasionally do sing along with instead of just listen (and "Grandma's Feather Bed" is just fun.) He had a darker life than his sunny persona hinted at, like anyone else. But his joy and enthusiasm were infectious, and his commitment to the environment real. He did indeed leave a wonderful musical legacy.
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