Barry Manilow postpones March 7 Bridgestone Arena concert in Nashville during recovery from lung cancer surgery
Schedule change affects the first stretch of Manilow’s 2026 arena run
Barry Manilow has postponed his scheduled March 7, 2026 concert at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville as he continues recovering from surgery tied to a lung cancer diagnosis disclosed in December 2025. The Nashville date was part of an arena run slated to begin Feb. 27 and extend through March 17, a span of 13 shows that Manilow said will be moved.
Manilow, 82, said a recent medical visit led his surgeon to advise against returning to 90-minute arena performances at this stage of recovery. In a written message to fans, the singer described ongoing limitations in stamina and breathing capacity needed to sustain a full concert set, despite regular exercise intended to rebuild endurance.
What Manilow has said about his diagnosis and recovery timeline
In December 2025, Manilow told fans that tests revealed a cancerous spot on his left lung. He said it was detected early and that the medical plan focused on surgical removal rather than chemotherapy or radiation. He later postponed a set of February 2026 Las Vegas residency dates while recovering.
The newest postponement expands that disruption to the opening portion of the arena schedule, including the Nashville show. Manilow said he hopes to be able to perform a separate set of Las Vegas dates beginning March 26, with additional arena shows planned for April.
What ticket-holders should expect
The March 7, 2026 Bridgestone Arena concert is among the dates Manilow said will be postponed.
As of the latest update, replacement dates for the postponed Feb. 27–March 17 shows had not been publicly listed in the same announcement.
Ticket policies can vary by venue and ticketing channel; concertgoers typically receive instructions once a new date is set or a refund window is announced.
Why the postponement matters for Nashville’s spring concert calendar
Bridgestone Arena is among Nashville’s highest-capacity concert venues, and major spring dates can influence staffing, surrounding downtown foot traffic, and hotel demand. When a large-format show shifts, it can also create scheduling pressure because arenas balance touring concerts with sports and other booked events.
Manilow has framed the decision as a medical necessity tied to lung recovery, saying he intends to return once he can complete full-length performances safely.
Manilow’s Nashville date had been marketed as part of a “last concert” series tied to his 2026 touring plans. The updated status now depends on rescheduling decisions and the artist’s continued recovery in the coming weeks.