Barbra Streisand is an American singer, actress, and filmmaker who has been one of the most successful and influential performers of the 20th and 21st centuries. Born in Brooklyn, New York in 1942, Streisand began her career in the 1960s as a singer, achieving great success with hits such as “People,” “The Way We Were,” and “Evergreen.”
In addition to her music career, Streisand has also enjoyed a successful acting career, appearing in films such as “Funny Girl,” “Yentl,” and “A Star is Born.” She has won multiple Academy Awards, Grammy Awards, and Emmy Awards, and is one of the few entertainers to have achieved the EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony) distinction.
Streisand is also known for her philanthropy, supporting causes such as civil rights, animal rights, and environmentalism. She has sold over 150 million records worldwide, making her one of the best-selling music artists of all time. Her enduring legacy as a performer and cultural icon continues to inspire and influence new generations of artists and fans.
Streisand’s talent, charisma, and dedication to her craft have earned her the respect and admiration of audiences and critics alike. Her music and acting have touched the hearts of millions, and she remains an enduring and beloved figure in popular culture.
1. My Man
“My Man” is a classic song performed by Barbra Streisand, originally from the 1921 French musical “Mon Homme.” Streisand’s emotive and soulful rendition was released in 1965, showcasing her powerful and emotive vocals. The song’s lyrics express the narrator’s unwavering love for her man, despite his flaws and shortcomings. Streisand’s performance is marked by her ability to convey deep emotions through her music, with the song’s soaring chorus and dramatic delivery capturing the heartache and longing of the lyrics. “My Man” remains a beloved classic of Streisand’s catalog and a testament to her enduring legacy as one of the greatest performers of all time.
2. A Piece of Sky
“A Piece of Sky” is a poignant and empowering song from the soundtrack of the 1983 musical drama film, “Yentl,” sung by American singer and actress, Barbra Streisand. The song was written by Streisand, Alan Bergman, and Marilyn Bergman, with music composed by Michel Legrand. With its soaring melody and powerful lyrics, “A Piece of Sky” tells the story of a woman’s desire to break free from the limitations imposed on her by society and to follow her dreams. Streisand’s emotive vocals and the song’s sweeping orchestration create a stirring and unforgettable musical experience that captures the essence of hope, determination, and self-discovery.
3. Don’t Rain on My Parade
“Don’t Rain on My Parade” is a classic show tune performed by Barbra Streisand in the musical “Funny Girl” and released as a single in 1964. The song is a triumphant declaration of independence and determination, with Streisand’s powerful vocals and soaring melodies expressing her refusal to be held back by naysayers or obstacles. The lyrics assert that the singer will not let anyone “tell me not to fly” and declares her intention to “march my band out” and “beat my drum.” “Don’t Rain on My Parade” remains a beloved classic of musical theater, and Streisand’s performance of the song is widely regarded as one of her best.
4. The Way We Were
“The Way We Were” is a classic ballad performed by Barbra Streisand, released in 1974. The song was composed by Marvin Hamlisch with lyrics by Alan and Marilyn Bergman. Streisand’s emotive and soulful rendition was a commercial and critical success, earning her an Academy Award for Best Original Song. The song’s lyrics reminisce about the joys and sorrows of a past love, and its memorable melody and soaring chorus have made it a beloved classic of Streisand’s catalog. “The Way We Were” remains a testament to Streisand’s enduring legacy as one of the greatest vocalists of all time.
5. Somewhere
“Somewhere” is a classic ballad from the musical “West Side Story,” which was covered by Barbra Streisand in her 1985 album, “The Broadway Album.” The song was composed by Leonard Bernstein, with lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, and is widely considered to be one of the most iconic songs in the musical theater canon. Streisand’s rendition is a stirring and heartfelt tribute to the original, with her distinctive vocals and emotional delivery perfectly capturing the song’s themes of longing, hope, and the search for a better tomorrow. “Somewhere” is a timeless masterpiece that continues to resonate with audiences across generations.
6. Evergreen
“Evergreen” is a timeless ballad by Barbra Streisand, co-written by Streisand and Paul Williams for the 1976 film “A Star is Born,” in which Streisand starred. The song features gentle acoustic guitar and orchestral arrangements, with Streisand’s tender vocals expressing the depth of feeling and commitment in a romantic relationship. The lyrics speak of a love that is “as warm as the sun,” and “as steady as the earth beneath me,” with the promise to “stay young and green” and “be loving you” forever. “Evergreen” became a huge commercial success and won the Academy Award for Best Original Song, cementing Streisand’s reputation as one of the greatest vocalists of all time.
7. People
“People” is a classic song performed by Barbra Streisand, originally from the 1964 musical “Funny Girl.” Streisand’s emotive and soulful rendition was released as a single in 1964 and became one of her signature songs. The song’s lyrics express a message of unity and empathy, with Streisand singing of the importance of recognizing the humanity in all people. The song’s memorable melody and Streisand’s powerful vocals have made it a beloved classic of her catalog, and a testament to her enduring legacy as one of the greatest performers of all time.
8. Woman in Love
“Woman in Love” is a popular song by Barbra Streisand, released in 1980. The song was written by Barry and Robin Gibb of the Bee Gees, and quickly became one of Streisand’s signature hits. The song features a beautiful melody, with Streisand’s emotive vocals taking center stage. The lyrics speak of the intensity and vulnerability of being in love, and the desire to give oneself fully to another person. “Woman in Love” remains a timeless classic, beloved for its heartfelt sentiment and powerful vocals. It is a testament to Streisand’s enduring talent and ability to connect with audiences through her music.
9. Happy Days Are Here Again
“Happy Days Are Here Again” is a classic song recorded by Barbra Streisand in 1963 for her debut album, “The Barbra Streisand Album.” The song’s optimistic lyrics and catchy melody express hope and joy after a period of hardship or sadness, and it has become an enduring anthem of resilience and perseverance. Streisand’s emotional delivery of the song, accompanied by a stirring arrangement of piano, strings, and horns, showcases her exceptional vocal range and power. “Happy Days Are Here Again” has become a beloved standard and is often performed at political rallies and other events celebrating hope and progress.
10. Papa, Can You Hear Me
“Papa, Can You Hear Me?” is a haunting ballad performed by Barbra Streisand, originally from the 1983 film “Yentl.” The song was composed by Michel Legrand with lyrics by Alan and Marilyn Bergman. Streisand’s emotive and powerful rendition showcases her ability to convey deep emotions through her music, with the song’s lyrics expressing a sense of longing and connection with a father figure who has passed away. The song’s memorable melody and Streisand’s emotive vocals have made it a beloved classic of her catalog and a testament to her enduring legacy as one of the greatest vocalists of all time.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
