Barry Manilow The Philanthropist.

02-02-2008 07:01

Barry Manilow The Philanthropist....

Crooner Barry Manilow is very generous with his vast fortune - after hoarding his earnings for years.The singer, 64, confesses he was mean with his money early on his career, but is trying to make up for his miserly ways now - by dedicating his time and savings to a number of good causes.Manilow has loaned his name to charities benefiting the victims of Aids and Hurricane Katrina, and has performed at benefit shows for a number of charitable causes. He even has his own foundation, The Manilow Fund for Health and Hope, which hands out millions to those in need.

Speaking ahead of a performance at an amFar Aids gala in New York on Thursday (31Jan08), Manilow explained his philosophy: "When I was younger, I tried to hoard my money, but as you get older, you realise you don't need it, and it's better off helping other people."I now give away as much as I possibly can".Meanwhile in other news crooner Barry Manilow is planning a busy 2008 - he's hitting the road and releasing two new albums.The Copacabana singer refuses to slow down at the age of 64, and can't wait to unleash his new material on his army of fans.