Barbra Streisand, born on April 24, 1942, in Brooklyn, New York, is a legendary American singer, actress, and filmmaker. With a career spanning over six decades, Streisand has become an icon in the entertainment industry. Known for her powerful voice, she has achieved success in various fields, winning numerous awards, including two Academy Awards, ten Grammy Awards, and a special Tony Award.
Streisand’s musical prowess is exemplified by her diverse repertoire that spans genres such as pop, jazz, and Broadway. Her debut album, “The Barbra Streisand Album,” released in 1963, marked the beginning of a prolific recording career. Streisand’s chart-topping hits like “People” and “The Way We Were” showcase her vocal range and emotional depth.
In addition to her music career, Streisand has made a significant impact in the film industry. She has starred in classic films like “Funny Girl” (1968) and “A Star is Born” (1976), earning critical acclaim and further solidifying her status as a Hollywood icon. Streisand has also directed several films, including “Yentl” (1983), making her one of the few artists to achieve EGOT status by winning an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Award.
Beyond her artistic achievements, Streisand is known for her activism and philanthropy, advocating for various social and political causes. Her enduring influence on music, film, and culture cements Barbra Streisand as a timeless and multifaceted icon in the entertainment industry.
1. Papa, Can You Hear Me?
“Papa, Can You Hear Me?” is a song from the 1983 musical drama film “Yentl,” directed by and starring Barbra Streisand. The song was co-written by Streisand, along with Alan Bergman and Marilyn Bergman. It serves as a poignant and emotionally charged moment in the film, reflecting the central character’s yearning for a connection with her deceased father.
In “Yentl,” Streisand plays the role of Yentl Mendel, a young Jewish woman in Eastern Europe who disguises herself as a man to pursue her passion for studying Talmudic law, which is forbidden to women in her community. The character’s father, played by Nehemiah Persoff, is a significant influence on her life and choices. “Papa, Can You Hear Me?” is sung by Streisand’s character as a prayerful and introspective soliloquy, expressing Yentl’s desire for guidance and validation from her late father as she navigates the challenges of living a double life.
The song became one of the standout tracks from the film’s soundtrack and has been recognized as a powerful and emotional piece. It was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Song, further contributing to Streisand’s legacy as a multifaceted artist with talents in both acting and music.
2. The Mirror Has Two Faces
“The Mirror Has Two Faces” is a romantic comedy-drama film released in 1996, directed by and starring Barbra Streisand. The film also features Jeff Bridges, Lauren Bacall, Mimi Rogers, and Pierce Brosnan in prominent roles. Streisand both directed and produced the film, and it marked her return to the director’s chair after a hiatus.
The story revolves around Rose Morgan, played by Streisand, a shy and plain-looking English literature professor who feels unfulfilled in her romantic life. Jeff Bridges portrays Gregory Larkin, a math professor with contrasting views on love and physical attraction. The two characters enter into a platonic marriage of convenience, hoping to find a deeper connection based on intellectual and emotional compatibility rather than physical attraction.
“The Mirror Has Two Faces” explores themes of self-esteem, societal expectations, and the complexities of romantic relationships. The film received mixed reviews from critics, but Streisand’s performance was generally praised. The movie’s theme song, “I Finally Found Someone,” a duet between Barbra Streisand and Bryan Adams, was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Song.
While the film may not have been a critical blockbuster, it added another dimension to Barbra Streisand’s career, showcasing her talents not only as an actress but also as a director and producer. The movie addresses issues of self-discovery and the true nature of love, wrapped in a charming and comedic narrative.
3. You Don’t Bring Me Flowers
“You Don’t Bring Me Flowers” is a classic duet performed by Barbra Streisand and Neil Diamond. The song was released in 1978 and became a massive hit. It was written by Neil Diamond, Alan Bergman, and Marilyn Bergman. The song explores the theme of fading love and the emotional distance that can develop in a relationship.
Interestingly, the song gained additional popularity due to its unique history. Initially, Neil Diamond recorded the song for his album “September Morn,” and Barbra Streisand recorded her own version for her album “Songbird.” However, a DJ combined the two versions into a duet, creating a more powerful and emotionally charged rendition. This prompted the official release of the duet version as a single.
“You Don’t Bring Me Flowers” topped the charts, earning both Streisand and Diamond a Grammy nomination for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal. The song’s success further solidified its place as one of the iconic ballads in the history of popular music.
4. My Man
“My Man” is a classic song associated with Barbra Streisand. It’s a torch song that has been widely performed by various artists, but Streisand’s rendition is particularly well-known. The song was originally written in French as “Mon Homme” in 1920 by Maurice Yvain with French lyrics by Albert Willemetz and English lyrics by Channing Pollock.
Barbra Streisand recorded “My Man” for her 1965 album “My Name Is Barbra,” which showcased her versatility as a singer and performer. The song has a melancholic and soulful quality, expressing the singer’s deep emotions and heartbreak.
“My Man” has been covered by numerous artists over the years, but Streisand’s version is especially celebrated for her powerful and emotive interpretation. The song has become a classic in the realm of torch songs and has been a staple in Streisand’s repertoire throughout her career. The emotional intensity and vocal prowess displayed in Streisand’s rendition contribute to the enduring impact of “My Man” as a timeless ballad.
5. Don’t Rain on My Parade
“Don’t Rain on My Parade” is a song from the musical “Funny Girl,” with music composed by Jule Styne and lyrics written by Bob Merrill. The musical, which premiered on Broadway in 1964, starred Barbra Streisand in the role of Fanny Brice.
The song “Don’t Rain on My Parade” is a show-stopping, upbeat number that serves as a declaration of independence and resilience. In the context of the musical, it is performed by Fanny Brice as a defiant response to challenges and setbacks in her personal and professional life. The character expresses determination and a refusal to be discouraged despite facing obstacles.
Barbra Streisand’s rendition of “Don’t Rain on My Parade” became particularly iconic, and she later reprised the song in the 1968 film adaptation of “Funny Girl.” The song has since become associated with Streisand and is considered one of her signature performances.
“Don’t Rain on My Parade” showcases Streisand’s powerful voice and her ability to convey both vulnerability and strength through her singing. The song has been widely praised for its uplifting and empowering message, making it a memorable and enduring piece in the world of musical theater.
6. The Way We Were
“The Way We Were” is a romantic drama film released in 1973, directed by Sydney Pollack and starring Barbra Streisand and Robert Redford in the lead roles. The film is known for its evocative theme song, also titled “The Way We Were,” performed by Streisand, which became a significant hit and won the Academy Award for Best Original Song.
The story is set against the backdrop of the turbulent times in America, covering the pre-World War II period, World War II itself, and the post-war era. Streisand plays Katie Morosky, an outspoken and politically active woman with strong ideals, while Redford portrays Hubbell Gardiner, a charming and easygoing writer. Despite their differences, they form a deep and passionate connection.
The film explores themes of love, political ideals, and the impact of societal changes on personal relationships. “The Way We Were” received critical acclaim for its performances, particularly Streisand’s, and the chemistry between the two lead actors. The film also garnered several Academy Award nominations, including Best Actress for Streisand.
The title song, “The Way We Were,” composed by Marvin Hamlisch with lyrics by Alan and Marilyn Bergman, became an iconic ballad. Streisand’s rendition of the song topped the charts and remains one of her signature songs. The film and its theme song have endured as cultural touchstones, capturing the nostalgia and bittersweet emotions associated with memories of a past love.
7. Evergreen
“Evergreen (Love Theme from A Star Is Born)” is a song performed by Barbra Streisand and Kris Kristofferson for the soundtrack of the 1976 film “A Star Is Born.” The song was composed by Barbra Streisand with lyrics by Paul Williams, and it went on to become one of Streisand’s most successful and enduring hits.
“Evergreen” serves as the love theme for the film, in which Streisand’s character, Esther Hoffman, rises to fame as a singer while her husband, played by Kristofferson, grapples with the decline of his own music career. The song captures the essence of their love story and the enduring nature of true love.
The song was released as a single and became a massive success, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Additionally, “Evergreen” won the Academy Award for Best Original Song at the 1977 Oscars, securing its place as one of the most celebrated movie songs. Streisand and Williams also won the Grammy Award for Song of the Year for their work on “Evergreen.”
The success of “Evergreen” further solidified Barbra Streisand’s status as a versatile and accomplished artist, combining her talents as a singer, songwriter, and actress. The song remains an iconic representation of love in the context of the film and stands as a classic in Streisand’s extensive catalog.
8. Woman in Love
“Woman in Love” is a song performed by Barbra Streisand, released in 1980. It was written by Barry Gibb of the Bee Gees along with his brothers Robin and Maurice Gibb. The song is known for its romantic and emotional lyrics, and it became one of Streisand’s signature hits.
“Woman in Love” is a ballad that explores themes of love, vulnerability, and the deep emotions that come with being in a romantic relationship. Streisand’s delivery of the song is characterized by her powerful and emotive vocals, capturing the essence of the romantic ballad.
The song was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries. Its popularity was enhanced by the collaboration with Barry Gibb, who was known for his work with the Bee Gees and his contribution to the disco era.
“Woman in Love” remains one of Barbra Streisand’s most well-known and beloved songs. It showcases her ability to interpret and deliver emotionally charged ballads with sincerity and depth, and it has become a classic in the genre of love songs.
9. People
“People” is a classic song performed by Barbra Streisand. It was written by Jule Styne and Bob Merrill and first appeared in the musical “Funny Girl,” which premiered on Broadway in 1964. The musical tells the story of Fanny Brice, a talented performer, and the song “People” is a key moment in the narrative.
Barbra Streisand played the role of Fanny Brice in the original Broadway production of “Funny Girl” and later reprised the character in the 1968 film adaptation. “People” is a ballad in which Fanny expresses her belief in the power of human connection and relationships over material possessions. The song reflects Fanny’s genuine and idealistic perspective on love and the importance of human connection.
Barbra Streisand’s rendition of “People” became a major hit, earning her a Grammy Award for Best Female Vocal Performance in 1965. The song remains one of Streisand’s signature tunes and is widely regarded as one of her most iconic performances. Its timeless message and emotional resonance have contributed to the enduring popularity of “People” as a classic in the American songbook.
10. Memory
“Memory” is a song from the musical “Cats,” with music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Trevor Nunn. The musical is based on T.S. Eliot’s “Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats.” “Memory” is sung by the character Grizabella, a former glamour cat who reflects on her past and longs for the days of youth and adoration.
The song’s most famous rendition is by Elaine Paige, who originated the role of Grizabella in the West End production of “Cats” in 1981. However, it became widely popular after being recorded by various artists, most notably by Barbra Streisand.
Streisand included “Memory” in her 1981 album “Memories,” and her rendition brought a different interpretation to the emotional ballad. Streisand’s version, with her powerful and emotive voice, contributed to the song’s enduring popularity.
“Memory” has become one of the most recognizable and iconic songs from musical theater, and it is often performed in various contexts outside of “Cats.” Its poignant lyrics and haunting melody have made it a timeless piece that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.