Barry Manilow – Ships

About the song

Few artists in the realm of adult contemporary music have mastered the art of emotional storytelling quite like Barry Manilow. Known for his soaring melodies and heartfelt lyrics, Manilow built a career on songs that resonate deeply with listeners. Among his many hits, “Ships” stands out as a particularly moving and introspective ballad—one that departs from his usual romantic themes and delves into the complexities of a father-son relationship.

Release and Album

“Ships” was released in 1979 as the lead single from Barry Manilow’s album “One Voice”. The song was written by British singer-songwriter Ian Hunter, best known as the frontman of Mott the Hoople. While Hunter’s original version (from his 1979 album You’re Never Alone with a Schizophrenic) carried a more raw, rock-oriented feel, Manilow transformed it into a sweeping, orchestral ballad, rich with sentiment and warmth. The song became a Top 10 hit on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart and reached No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100, further cementing Manilow’s reputation as a master of deeply emotional pop music.

Meaning and Emotional Depth

At its core, “Ships” is a poignant reflection on the estranged relationship between a father and son—a theme that resonates with many who have experienced emotional distance in their familial bonds. The lyrics describe two people who have drifted apart over time, much like “ships that pass in the night.” There’s an undercurrent of longing, regret, and nostalgia, as the narrator struggles with the realization that the connection with his father has become distant, despite their shared past.

For Manilow, the song took on an even deeper personal meaning. He once revealed in interviews that it reminded him of his own complicated relationship with his father, who left when he was very young. The song’s lyrics, combined with Manilow’s emotive delivery, create a powerful sense of melancholy and reconciliation, making it one of his most heartfelt performances.

Musical Arrangement and Style

Musically, “Ships” is classic Barry Manilow—a lush, orchestrated ballad driven by sweeping string arrangements, tender piano melodies, and Manilow’s expressive vocals. The song opens gently, with soft piano chords setting a reflective mood. As it progresses, the arrangement builds, incorporating rich harmonies and dramatic instrumentation, culminating in a powerful yet restrained climax.

Compared to Ian Hunter’s original version, which featured a more rock-infused sound with electric guitars and a rawer vocal approach, Manilow’s rendition leans heavily into orchestral pop, evoking the grandeur of his biggest hits like “Mandy” and “Weekend in New England.” His ability to take a rock song and reinterpret it through the lens of dramatic pop balladry showcases his talent as both a performer and arranger.

Cultural and Emotional Impact

Upon its release, “Ships” struck a chord with listeners, particularly those who had experienced strained parental relationships. Many fans connected with the song’s themes of time, change, and the struggle to rebuild lost connections. It became a staple in Manilow’s live performances, often receiving an emotional reaction from audiences who saw their own relationships reflected in the lyrics.

Additionally, “Ships” helped introduce Ian Hunter’s songwriting to a broader audience. While Hunter was already well-regarded in rock circles, Manilow’s polished interpretation of the song brought it into the mainstream, proving how universal its themes were.

Legacy and Enduring Relevance

Over four decades later, “Ships” remains one of Barry Manilow’s most underrated yet profoundly moving songs. Unlike his more famous love ballads, this track explores a different kind of love—the complicated, sometimes painful bond between parent and child. Its themes are timeless, and its melody still resonates with listeners who find themselves reflecting on their own family relationships.

For fans of Manilow’s grand, emotional style, “Ships” is a shining example of his ability to turn a simple song into an unforgettable, deeply personal experience. It reminds us that even as people drift apart—like ships passing in the night—there is always a chance to find our way back to those we love.

Video

Lyrics

We walked to the sea, just my father and me
And the dogs played around on the sand
Winter cold cut the air, hangin’ still everywhere
Dressed in gray, did he say, “Hold my hand”
I said, “Love’s easier when it’s far away”
We sat and watched a distant light

We’re two ships that pass in the night
We both smile and we say, “It’s alright”
We’re still here, it’s just that we’re out of sight
Like those ships that pass in the night

There’s a boat on the line where the sea meets the sky
There’s another that rides far behind
And it seems you and I are like strangers a wide ways apart
As we drift on through time
He said, “It’s harder now we’re far away”
We only read you when you write

We’re two ships that pass in the night
And we smile when we say it’s alright
We’re still here, it’s just that we’re out of sight
Like those ships that pass in the night

We’re just ships that pass in the night
And we smile when we say it’s alright
We’re still here, it’s just that we’re out of sight
Like those ships that pass in the night

We’re just two ships that pass in the night
And we smile when we say it’s alright
We’re still here, it’s just that we’re out of sight