Read 'Em and Weep

Barry Manilow

About Read 'Em and Weep

"Read 'Em and Weep" is a rock music song composed by Jim Steinman. Originally written for Meat Loaf and recorded for his 1981 album, Dead Ringer, the second of only two tracks on the album produced by Steinman and Jimmy Iovine, it did not become a hit until late 1983, when a slightly rewritten version was recorded by Barry Manilow as one of three new tracks on his compilation album, Greatest Hits, Vol. II. This version featured new lyrics for the second half of the song's second verse, and reached number eighteen on the U. S. Billboard Hot 100 as well as number one on the U. S. and Canadian Adult Contemporary charts. It is Manilow's last top 40 hit on the Hot 100 chart to date. 


Year:
1985
91 
#1

Lyrics currently unavailable…


Barry Manilow

Barry Manilow (born June 17, 1943) is an American singer-songwriter and producer. He is best known for such recordings as "Could It Be Magic", "Mandy", "Can't Smile Without You", and "Copacabana (At the Copa)". more »

7 fans


10 facts about this song

Song Creation
"Read 'Em and Weep" is a song that was originally written and recorded by Jim Steinman. Steinman is popularly known for his collaboration with Meat Loaf and is a prominent figure in the rock scene.
First Version
The song was initially performed by Meat Loaf on his 1981 album "Dead Ringer." This first version didn't achieve much commercial success, despite Meat Loaf's global recognition.
Barry Manilow's Version
In 1983, two years after the Meat Loaf version, Barry Manilow released his rendition of "Read 'Em and Weep." Manilow's version quickly became a success and was his last number one hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, where it stayed at the top for four weeks.
Song Theme
The song's melancholy theme focuses on love and loss, which are common themes explored in Manilow's music as well. The ballad type of the song fit Manilow's style perfectly, contributing to its success.
Album Success
The song appeared on Manilow's 1983 album "Greatest Hits Vol. II." The album was a major success, achieving multi-platinum status and solidifying Manilow's status as a pop icon.
Music Video
An official music video was released for Barry Manilow's version. In this video, he portrays a man who has been left by his lover. This visual presentation helped boost the song's popularity.
Song Style
Despite being the same song, Meat Loaf's original version and Manilow's rendition significantly differ in style. Meat Loaf's version has a rock edge, while Manilow's take on the song is more of a pop ballad.
Critical Reception
Although the song has received mixed reviews from critics, it has been loved by fans worldwide. It's considered one of the major hits of both Barry Manilow and Meat Loaf’s careers.
Live Performances
"Read 'Em and Weep" has been performed live by both Barry Manilow and Meat Loaf, adding a unique touch to their respective concerts.
Continued Popularity
Even decades after its release, "Read 'Em and Weep" continues to be loved by fans and is often played on classic rock and pop radio stations.

Discuss the Read 'Em and Weep Lyrics with the community:

0 Comments

    Citation

    Use the citation below to add these lyrics to your bibliography:

    Style:MLAChicagoAPA

    "Read 'Em and Weep Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 20 Apr. 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/680905/Barry+Manilow/Read+%27Em+and+Weep>.

    Missing lyrics by Barry Manilow?

    Know any other songs by Barry Manilow? Don't keep it to yourself!

    Watch the song video

    Read 'Em and Weep

    481.2K
    2,413     168

    Top Hot 100 Songs 1984

    Billboard #18


    Browse Lyrics.com

    Quiz

    Are you a music master?

    »
    Which movie soundtrack brought second life to "Girl, You'll Be a Woman Soon"?
    A Snatch
    B Shawshank Redemption
    C Reservoir Dogs
    D Pulp Fiction

    Free, no signup required:

    Add to Chrome

    Get instant explanation for any lyrics that hits you anywhere on the web!

    Free, no signup required:

    Add to Firefox

    Get instant explanation for any acronym or abbreviation that hits you anywhere on the web!

    Barry Manilow tracks

    On Radio Right Now

    Loading...

    Powered by OnRad.io


    Think you know music? Test your MusicIQ here!