Barbra Streisand is an iconic American singer, actress, and filmmaker, born on April 24, 1942, in Brooklyn, New York. She is recognized as one of the most successful and influential entertainers in history, with a career spanning over six decades. Streisand’s versatile talent encompasses singing, acting, directing, and producing, making her a formidable presence in both the music and film industries.
As a singer, Streisand is known for her powerful soprano voice, impeccable phrasing, and emotional delivery. She has released numerous acclaimed albums across various genres, including pop, jazz, and Broadway standards. Some of her most famous songs include “The Way We Were,” “People,” “Woman in Love,” and “Evergreen (Love Theme from A Star Is Born).”
In addition to her music career, Streisand has achieved great success in film and television, starring in iconic movies such as “Funny Girl,” “Hello, Dolly!,” and “A Star Is Born.” She has won multiple awards, including Oscars, Grammys, Emmys, and Golden Globes, cementing her legacy as a legendary performer and cultural icon. Streisand continues to inspire generations with her talent, activism, and enduring contributions to the arts.
1. You Don’t Bring Me Flowers
“You Don’t Bring Me Flowers” is a song originally recorded by Neil Diamond and Barbra Streisand in 1978. It was written by Neil Diamond, Alan Bergman, and Marilyn Bergman. The song tells the story of a couple whose relationship has lost its spark, with each partner expressing disappointment and longing for the romantic gestures that have faded over time.
The song gained popularity for its heartfelt lyrics and the powerful vocal performances of Diamond and Streisand. It became a chart-topping hit, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. “You Don’t Bring Me Flowers” remains one of Streisand’s signature songs and is often remembered for its emotional impact and poignant portrayal of love and loss in relationships.
2. Guilty
“Guilty” is a song performed as a duet by Barbra Streisand and Barry Gibb, released in 1980. It is the title track from their collaborative album “Guilty,” written by Barry, Robin, and Maurice Gibb of the Bee Gees. The song features a blend of pop and disco influences, characterized by its catchy melody, smooth vocals, and romantic lyrics.
“Guilty” became a major hit, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries. The album also achieved commercial success, showcasing Streisand’s versatility as a vocalist and Gibb’s prowess as a songwriter and producer. The song and album are remembered for their polished production, lush arrangements, and the chemistry between Streisand and Gibb, making “Guilty” one of the standout collaborations in both artists’ careers.
3. The Summer Knows
“The Summer Knows” is a song composed by Michel Legrand with lyrics by Alan and Marilyn Bergman. It was originally written for the 1971 film “Summer of ’42,” where it served as the main theme. The song is a melancholic reflection on the fleeting nature of summer and youth, capturing a sense of nostalgia and longing for lost moments.
Barbra Streisand recorded a notable rendition of “The Summer Knows” for her album “Barbra Joan Streisand” in 1971. Her interpretation of the song is characterized by her emotive vocal delivery and the orchestral arrangement that underscores the song’s wistful and introspective mood.
“The Summer Knows” has been covered by various artists over the years, becoming a standard in the American songbook and appreciated for its poetic lyrics and evocative melody, capturing the essence of bittersweet memories and the passage of time.
4. Papa, Can You Hear Me?
“Papa, Can You Hear Me?” is a song performed by Barbra Streisand, featured in the 1983 film “Yentl,” which she also directed and starred in. The song was composed by Michel Legrand with lyrics by Alan and Marilyn Bergman. It serves as a poignant and emotional moment in the film, where Streisand’s character, Yentl, sings a prayer-like plea to her deceased father, asking for guidance and reassurance.
Streisand’s rendition of “Papa, Can You Hear Me?” showcases her powerful vocal range and ability to convey deep emotions through music. The song became a significant part of the film’s soundtrack and received critical acclaim for its lyrical depth and haunting melody. It has since become one of Streisand’s iconic songs, resonating with audiences for its heartfelt portrayal of love, loss, and spiritual connection.
5. Don’t Rain on My Parade
“Don’t Rain on My Parade” by Barbra Streisand. It’s a classic from the musical “Funny Girl,” where Streisand originated the role of Fanny Brice both on Broadway and in the subsequent film adaptation. Released in 1964, “Don’t Rain on My Parade” became one of Streisand’s signature songs, known for its powerful vocals and defiant lyrics. The song expresses Fanny Brice’s determination to pursue her dreams despite challenges and naysayers. Streisand’s rendition is celebrated for its emotional intensity and has since become a beloved standard, often performed by singers across various genres.
6. People
“People” is a classic song famously performed by Barbra Streisand. It was originally written by Jule Styne and Bob Merrill for the musical “Funny Girl,” where Streisand starred as Fanny Brice. Released in 1964, “People” became one of Streisand’s most iconic songs, known for its poignant lyrics and emotional depth. The song reflects on the importance of human connection and the impact individuals have on each other’s lives. Streisand’s powerful vocal performance and the song’s beautiful melody made it a timeless classic, earning her a Grammy Award for Best Female Vocal Performance in 1965.
7. Evergreen
“Evergreen” is a song performed by Barbra Streisand, composed by Barbra Streisand with lyrics by Paul Williams. It was released in 1976 as the love theme from the movie “A Star Is Born,” where Streisand starred alongside Kris Kristofferson. The song is a romantic ballad that expresses enduring love and the promise of a lasting relationship.
“Evergreen” became a major hit, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and winning the Academy Award for Best Original Song. Streisand’s heartfelt delivery and the song’s melodic beauty contributed to its success, making it one of her most beloved and enduring songs. “Evergreen” continues to be cherished for its timeless appeal and emotional resonance, solidifying its place as a classic in popular music.
8. Memory
“Memory” is a song from the musical “Cats,” composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber with lyrics by Trevor Nunn. It is based on the poem “Rhapsody on a Windy Night” by T.S. Eliot and sung by the character Grizabella, the Glamour Cat. The song is a powerful and emotive ballad that reflects on memories of past glory and longing for acceptance and redemption.
“Memory” became one of the most iconic songs from “Cats,” first performed by Elaine Paige in the original West End production in 1981. The song’s popularity soared when it was later recorded by various artists, including Barbra Streisand, whose rendition became particularly well-known.
Streisand’s interpretation of “Memory” showcases her emotive vocals and captures the song’s poignant themes of nostalgia and yearning. Her version remains a standout in her repertoire, contributing to the enduring legacy of this beloved Broadway classic.
9. Woman in Love
“Woman in Love” is a song performed by Barbra Streisand, released in 1980 as a single from her album “Guilty.” Written by Barry and Robin Gibb of the Bee Gees, the song is a romantic ballad that showcases Streisand’s emotive vocals and the Gibb brothers’ signature songwriting style. “Woman in Love” became one of Streisand’s biggest hits, topping charts worldwide and earning her a Grammy Award nomination for Best Pop Vocal Performance, Female. The song’s lyrics express the vulnerability and passion of being in love, resonating with listeners for its heartfelt portrayal of romantic emotions.
10. The Way We Were
“The Way We Were” is a classic ballad performed by Barbra Streisand, released in 1973 as the theme song for the film of the same name. Written by Alan and Marilyn Bergman, along with Marvin Hamlisch, the song reflects on nostalgic memories of a past love. Streisand’s emotive vocals and the song’s poignant lyrics evoke themes of bittersweet reminiscence and longing for lost moments. “The Way We Were” became one of Streisand’s most iconic songs, topping charts internationally and winning several awards, including the Academy Award for Best Original Song and Grammy Awards for Song of the Year and Best Pop Vocal Performance, Female. It remains a timeless classic and a defining piece of Streisand’s illustrious career.
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.
