“Who’s Been Sleeping in My Bed” by Barry Manilow
Artist: Barry Manilow
Song Title: “Who’s Been Sleeping in My Bed”
Album: If I Should Love Again
Release Date: October 1981
Genre: Pop
Label: Arista Records
Writers: Richard Kerr and Will Jennings
Producer: Barry Manilow and Michael Omartian
Song Details
Themes: The song delves into themes of infidelity and betrayal. The lyrics express the pain and confusion of discovering that a partner may have been unfaithful. It captures the emotional turmoil and longing for truth in a troubled relationship.
Musical Style: “Who’s Been Sleeping in My Bed” features Barry Manilow’s signature pop style with a strong, melodic line and lush arrangements. The song blends heartfelt lyrics with a smooth and engaging musical backdrop.
Notable Features
Vocals: Barry Manilow’s emotive and expressive vocal performance is central to the song, conveying the depth of the narrator’s emotional state.
Instrumentation: The arrangement includes piano, strings, and a steady rhythm section, creating a rich, full sound typical of Manilow’s work during this period.
Production: Co-produced by Barry Manilow and Michael Omartian, the production is polished and sophisticated, highlighting Manilow’s vocal delivery and the song’s emotional impact.
Reception
Critical Response: The song received positive reviews from critics, who praised Manilow’s vocal performance and the song’s poignant lyrics. It was noted for its relatable theme and emotional depth.
Commercial Performance: While not released as a single, “Who’s Been Sleeping in My Bed” was appreciated by fans and contributed to the overall success of the If I Should Love Again album, which was well-received and achieved commercial success.
Legacy
Live Performances: Though not one of Manilow’s most famous hits, “Who’s Been Sleeping in My Bed” is occasionally included in his live performances, appreciated by dedicated fans for its lyrical content and emotional resonance.
Impact on Career: The song is part of an album that helped cement Barry Manilow’s status as a leading pop artist in the early 1980s, showcasing his ability to blend personal storytelling with mainstream appeal.
Lyrics Excerpt
Who’s been sleeping in my bed? Who’s been loving you instead? Oh, I wish I’d known it from the start That I was only borrowing your heart
This song captures the essence of heartbreak and the quest for truth, wrapped in Barry Manilow’s characteristic musical style.