“Ships” is a poignant ballad performed by Barry Manilow, known for its introspective lyrics and emotive melody.

Release Date: 1979

Background and Inspiration

“Ships” was written by Ian Hunter, the lead singer of Mott the Hoople, and originally appeared on his 1979 album You’re Never Alone with a Schizophrenic. Barry Manilow covered the song the same year for his One Voice album. The song is a reflective piece about Hunter’s relationship with his father, touching on themes of distance, reconciliation, and the passage of time.

Lyrics Overview

The lyrics of “Ships” express a longing to reconnect with a loved one after being apart. The imagery of ships passing in the night symbolizes the fleeting and often missed opportunities to truly connect with someone.