Barry Manilow, Russell Crowe and Liza Minnelli

Barry Manilow, Russell Crowe and Liza Minnelli in the 'here we go again' glow of the Foxlight.

Barry Manilow says his first live album was a wax cylinder released in 1821. He hasn't really been around that long, but he does have a good sense of humor about his Copacabana-filled days. He says he's classically trained and his first song "Could It Be Magic" was based on Chopin's "Prelude in C Minor." Oh, I think we all knew that.

Manilow is back on the charts with Ultimate Manilow but admits there have been some embarrassing moments — like that Copacabana jacket he describes as a ruffled Desi Arnaz, Babaloo thing. The Smithsonian thought they wanted it, then sent it back.

Russell Crowe's mind may be beautiful, but his record sales are about as successful as his backstage manners. His band, 30 Odd Foot of Grunts sold 156 copies of it's new album so far in England. Okay, maybe they're up to 157 since I heard about this the other day. The album company says Russell wants to concentrate on the movie right now. Lucky for them. Just think how few would have been sold if he promoted the album the way he's helped the movie so far.

Finally, hey Liza, if this marriage tanks in less than six months Miss Manners says I get my toaster back.