Jewish singer Barry Manilow has become the longest-resident artist in Las Vegas, overtaking an Elvis Presley record set by the King in 1978.

Manilow overtook Presley’s record at the International Theatre in Westgate Casino on Sept 21 with the 636th performance of his show Barry Manilow - The Hits Come Home!

The 80-year-old, who was born Barry Alan Pincus, grew up in a Jewish family in Brooklyn and has been performing for nearly 60 years.

Before breaking the record, Manilow told reporters the milestone would not mark the end of his career as he has “too much energy” and a Broadway show to launch.

He said: “I am not ready to sit around to watch TV. I have too much energy and too many creative ideas.

“The fans’ support is huge too. People thank me for my music all the time," he added, citing "garbage truck drivers" as being among those who their gratitude.

"Even the other day a guy popped out of a manhole to say hi.”

As well as his residency, Manilow has been working on a musical about a Second World War German-Jewish comedy group.

The show, titled Harmony, is expected to launch on Broadway in New York at the Barrymore Theatre in October.

Proceeds from his record-breaking weekend in Vegas will go to several charities including the Barbara Sinatra Children’s Center and the Manilow Music Project.

Earlier this month he said: “It’s an honour to be on the same stage that The King once graced.

“The weekend is going to be especially meaningful because we are also going to raise money for some very deserving charities.”