FOSTER, DAVID / BARRY MANN songwriter for the stars 2 6327079

A Rare Glimpse of Songwriting Royalty: “Songwriter for the Stars 2”

The world of AOR and sophisticated pop is built on the genius of its songwriters, and two of the most legendary names in the business are David Foster and Barry Mann. This extremely rare 1982 Norwegian compilation, “Songwriter for the Stars 2,” is a fascinating document that celebrates their incredible contributions to music. We are looking at this special pressing on the Mercury label, with the catalog number 6327079.

This album is not a typical greatest hits collection. It’s a unique release that seems to have been compiled for the Norwegian market, featuring songs penned by these masters, including those recorded by Scandinavian artists like Lise Rypdal and Alex. The album features 5 tracks from David Foster, a master of the polished, era-defining AOR sound, and 5 tracks from the iconic songwriting duo of Barry Mann and his partner, Cynthia Weil, who were responsible for some of the biggest hits of the 20th century.

Some sources suggest this may even be a rare live recording from a fan club event in Norway, making it an even more unique artifact. It captures a moment where the architects behind the hits stepped into the spotlight themselves, alongside artists they influenced.

This record is a true deep cut for the dedicated AOR collector. It’s a snapshot of a time when the songwriter was celebrated as a star, and it brings together two of the most successful and influential composers of their generation on one incredibly rare LP. For any fan of David Foster, Barry Mann, or the art of sophisticated pop songwriting, this is a remarkable and highly sought-after find. You can find this album on our website.