Nina's 9: More than just coffee in the morning with Melissa Manchester

After 50 years, the singer-songwriter rekindles the morning fire with her new album ‘Re:View’

By Nina Livingstone

There has been no down time for Melissa Manchester, who at 19 was studying songwriting at New York University with Paul Simon, and at 20 was playing Manhattan clubs alongside Barry Manilow. Manilow introduced Melissa to Bette Midler, who made her one of her backup singers. Through Midler, Melissa met songwriter Carole Bayer Sager. A prolific writer, Melissa has had her songs recorded by Barbra Streisand, Roberta Flack, Dusty Springfield, Alison Krauss, Kenny Loggins and many others.

Her most recent single, “Fire in the Morning,” was released June 2021, from her upcoming album “Re:View.” It’s there you will also find other favorites, including the unforgettable “Midnight Blue.”

NINA: Since your career began, can you share a favorite story?

MELISSA: When my daughter, Hannah, was 2 years old and starting to talk in full sentences, I’d taken her to a department store to buy some clothes. I was talking to a saleswoman when my daughter, who needed my attention, said, “Mommy, Mommy … MISL MLANCHESTER!!!” I thought that was hysterical.

NINA: If you could invite a musician, a filmmaker, a politician, and an actor/actress for dinner, who would they be and what would you serve?

MELISSA: I’d invite Mozart, Steven Spielberg, Abraham Lincoln and Meryl Streep. I’d serve a salad, roast a chicken with onions, carrots and asparagus. Dessert would include berries and something chocolate. They’d have their choice of libations. All wives and husbands would also be invited.

Portrait of Melissa Manchester

NINA: Picture it: You’re suddenly twenty years old, where would you be and would you do anything differently?

MELISSA: If I were magically 20 again, I’d be in Manhattan, as busy as I was, but my mind would be wiser, stronger. I’d be well aware that it’s more important to be respected than to be liked.

NINA: What is your go-to place to relax?

MELISSA: My home

NINA: What is the one thing you can’t live without?

MELISSA: My kids, family and extended family.

NINA: What do you like most about yourself?

MELISSA: That I’ve grown, that I’m still curious and learning.

NINA: What should we know about you before meeting you?

MELISSA: I appreciate good manners and kindness

NINA: What would you say is your happiest memory?

MELISSA: I am happiest to say that there is not just one singular memory that stands out. I’ve been blessed with many happy ones.

NINA: What Netflix streaming/series got you through the pandemic last winter and which ones do you recommend this round?

MELISSA: “The Great British Baking Show.”