“Cloudburst” is an epic, cinematic ballad recorded and released by American singer-songwriter Barry Manilow in 1978. The track appeared on his album “Even Now”.

“Cloudburst” was written and composed by Barry Manilow himself, along with collaborators Bruce Sussman and Jack Feldman.

The song features a sweeping, orchestral arrangement with lush strings, dramatic piano, and thunderous percussion, creating a grand, theatrical soundscape.

Lyrically, “Cloudburst” tells a vivid, metaphorical story of a brewing storm and impending change, with the “cloudburst” serving as a symbol for the arrival of new challenges or opportunities.

Manilow’s emotive, powerful vocals drive the song, as he conveys a sense of tension, anticipation, and resilience through his performance.

The lyrics use evocative, poetic imagery to paint a cinematic picture, with references to lightning, thunder, and weathering the “storm” of life.

The track builds in intensity, with the orchestral accompaniment swelling and the vocals becoming more impassioned as the song progresses.

“Cloudburst” features a dramatic, climactic conclusion where Manilow’s vocals soar over the thunderous instrumentation, creating a cathartic, almost operatic effect.

The song was released as a single and became a top 20 hit on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart, showcasing Manilow’s ability to craft grand, theatrical ballads.

“Cloudburst” is considered one of Manilow’s most ambitious and musically sophisticated compositions, demonstrating his skills as an arranger and producer as well as a songwriter.

The track has become a concert staple for Manilow, where its sweeping, cinematic qualities make it a powerful, show-stopping moment in his live performances.

Critics have praised “Cloudburst” as an example of Manilow’s talent for blending pop, Broadway, and classical influences into a dramatic, emotionally resonant song.

The track is widely regarded as one of the highlights of Manilow’s catalog, a standout that exemplifies his gift for crafting epic, grandiose ballads.