Barbra Streisand is an iconic American singer, actress, and filmmaker, known for her powerful voice, versatile talent, and enduring influence in entertainment. She has achieved success in multiple fields, including music, film, and theater, over a career spanning several decades.
Streisand’s music career began in the 1960s with her debut album “The Barbra Streisand Album” in 1963, which won her two Grammy Awards. She is known for her distinctive voice, capable of delivering both emotional ballads and uptempo numbers with equal skill. Some of her most famous songs include “The Way We Were,” “Woman in Love,” “Evergreen (Love Theme from A Star Is Born),” and “Don’t Rain on My Parade.”
In addition to her music career, Streisand has had a successful acting career, starring in films such as “Funny Girl” (for which she won an Academy Award), “A Star Is Born,” “Yentl,” and “The Mirror Has Two Faces.” She has also directed several films, becoming one of the few women to have directed a major studio film and winning acclaim for her work behind the camera as well.
Throughout her career, Streisand has been a cultural icon, known for her activism, philanthropy, and outspokenness on social and political issues. She remains a beloved figure in entertainment, celebrated for her talent, influence, and contributions to music, film, and popular culture.
1. You Don’t Bring Me Flowers
“You Don’t Bring Me Flowers” is a song performed as a duet by Barbra Streisand and Neil Diamond. Released in 1978, it became a hit single and remains one of their most iconic collaborations. The song explores the theme of a fading relationship where gestures of love and romance have dwindled, leaving behind feelings of disappointment and longing.
Originally, “You Don’t Bring Me Flowers” was two separate songs: one written by Neil Diamond and another by Alan and Marilyn Bergman, with different melodies and lyrics. A radio DJ in Louisville, Kentucky, played both songs consecutively, which sparked the idea for a duet version. Streisand and Diamond subsequently recorded a combined version that blended both songs’ lyrics and melodies into a seamless duet.
The song became immensely popular, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, and it has since become a classic representation of heartfelt balladry. Streisand and Diamond’s powerful vocals and emotional delivery resonated with listeners, making “You Don’t Bring Me Flowers” a timeless reflection on 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 was the title track of their collaborative album “Guilty,” which was produced by Barry Gibb and Karl Richardson. The song features a blend of pop and adult contemporary styles, characteristic of Gibb’s production and Streisand’s powerful vocals.
“Guilty” explores themes of love, desire, and vulnerability within a romantic relationship. The lyrics reflect the tension and longing between two lovers who are drawn to each other despite societal expectations or personal reservations. The song’s catchy melody and emotive delivery by Streisand and Gibb contributed to its commercial success.
The “Guilty” album was well-received, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart and spawning several hit singles, including “Guilty” and “What Kind of Fool.” The collaboration between Streisand and Gibb highlighted their vocal chemistry and showcased Streisand’s ability to adapt to contemporary pop music while maintaining her distinct style.
“Guilty” remains a standout in both Streisand’s and Gibb’s discographies, exemplifying their artistic synergy and the enduring appeal of their partnership in creating memorable music.
3. The Summer Knows
“The Summer Knows” is a song composed by Michel Legrand with lyrics by Alan Bergman and Marilyn Bergman. It was written for the 1971 film “Summer of ’42,” where it was performed by the legendary singer Frank Sinatra. The song captures the nostalgic essence of summer and young love, reflecting on the fleeting nature of time and the beauty of youthful experiences. Its evocative lyrics and lush melody have made it a timeless classic, covered by various artists over the years, including Barbra Streisand, Tony Bennett, and many others.
4. Papa, Can You Hear Me?
“Papa, Can You Hear Me?” is a song performed by Barbra Streisand, written by Michel Legrand, Alan Bergman, and Marilyn Bergman. It was featured in the 1983 film “Yentl,” which Streisand directed, produced, and starred in. The song reflects the character’s longing and plea to her deceased father, seeking his guidance and approval as she navigates life’s challenges. Streisand’s emotional delivery and the song’s poignant lyrics have made it a standout in both the film and Streisand’s musical repertoire, earning acclaim and recognition.
5. Don’t Rain on My Parade
“Don’t Rain on My Parade” is a classic song from the musical “Funny Girl,” which premiered on Broadway in 1964. The song was written by Jule Styne and Bob Merrill and was originally performed by Barbra Streisand in her Tony Award-winning role as Fanny Brice.
In “Funny Girl,” “Don’t Rain on My Parade” serves as a defiant and empowering anthem for Fanny Brice, a character who faces adversity but remains determined to pursue her dreams with confidence and resilience. The song’s lyrics convey a sense of determination and independence, with Fanny asserting her strength and refusing to let obstacles dampen her spirits.
Barbra Streisand’s rendition of “Don’t Rain on My Parade” became an iconic moment in musical theater history, showcasing her powerful vocals and dynamic stage presence. The song’s memorable melody and stirring lyrics have made it a popular choice for performers and audiences alike, often associated with themes of empowerment and overcoming challenges.
Since its debut in “Funny Girl,” “Don’t Rain on My Parade” has been covered by various artists and remains a beloved standard in musical theater repertoire. It continues to resonate with audiences for its timeless message of resilience and the triumph of the human spirit.
6. People
“People” is a classic song performed by Barbra Streisand, written by Jule Styne and Bob Merrill. It was originally composed for the Broadway musical “Funny Girl,” where Streisand starred as Fanny Brice. The song has since become one of Streisand’s signature pieces, known for its powerful vocals and emotive lyrics.
Lyrically, “People” expresses the idea of human connection and the importance of relationships in life. It reflects on the universal desire for companionship and understanding, resonating with listeners through its heartfelt message.
Musically, “People” features a melodic and sweeping orchestration that complements Streisand’s vocal range and dramatic delivery. The song builds in intensity, conveying the emotional depth of its lyrics and capturing the essence of longing and vulnerability.
Since its debut, “People” has been widely acclaimed and has remained a beloved standard in Streisand’s repertoire. It has been covered by various artists and continues to be celebrated for its timeless appeal and emotional resonance.
7. Evergreen
“Evergreen” is a song performed by Barbra Streisand, written by Streisand and Paul Williams. It was released in 1976 as the theme song for the movie “A Star is Born,” in which Streisand starred alongside Kris Kristofferson. The song became one of Streisand’s signature hits and won the Academy Award for Best Original Song.
“Evergreen” is a romantic ballad that explores themes of enduring love and commitment. The lyrics reflect the idea of love as something that grows stronger over time, remaining constant and evergreen amidst life’s changes. Streisand’s heartfelt delivery and the song’s lush orchestration contributed to its widespread popularity and emotional resonance.
The success of “Evergreen” helped solidify Barbra Streisand’s reputation as both a talented actress and a formidable singer-songwriter. The song topped the charts in multiple countries and received critical acclaim for its beauty and emotional depth. It remains a classic example of Streisand’s ability to capture the essence of love and romance through her music.
8. Memory
“Memory” is a song from the musical “Cats,” composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber with lyrics by T.S. Eliot and Trevor Nunn. It is based on Eliot’s poetry collection “Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats.” The song is sung by the character Grizabella, a once-glamorous cat who reflects on her past and longs for acceptance and redemption.
Lyrically, “Memory” is a haunting and introspective ballad that captures themes of nostalgia, longing, and hope. Grizabella recalls happier times and yearns to reclaim her former glory, expressing her loneliness and desire for connection.
Musically, “Memory” features a memorable melody and emotional orchestration that intensify as the song progresses. It builds to a powerful climax, showcasing the character’s emotional journey and vulnerability.
“Memory” has become one of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s most famous compositions and a beloved classic in musical theater. It has been performed by numerous artists and has achieved widespread acclaim for its poignant lyrics, evocative music, and universal themes of resilience and redemption.
9. Woman in Love
“Woman in Love” is a song performed by Barbra Streisand, released in 1980. Written by Barry and Robin Gibb of the Bee Gees, it became one of Streisand’s biggest hits, topping charts internationally and becoming one of her signature songs.
“Woman in Love” is a powerful ballad that explores themes of vulnerability and longing in a romantic relationship. The lyrics convey the emotions of being deeply in love and the intensity of emotional connection. Streisand’s emotive vocals and the song’s sweeping orchestration contributed to its commercial success and enduring popularity.
The song’s release was part of Streisand’s album “Guilty,” produced by Barry Gibb, which marked a departure from her traditional style into more contemporary pop music. “Woman in Love” became a crossover hit, appealing to a wide audience and showcasing Streisand’s ability to adapt to new musical trends while maintaining her distinct vocal presence.
Since its release, “Woman in Love” has remained a beloved classic, often celebrated for its lush production, memorable melody, and Streisand’s emotive interpretation. It continues to be a staple in her live performances and a testament to her enduring influence in popular music.
10. The Way We Were
“The Way We Were” is a song performed by Barbra Streisand, composed by Marvin Hamlisch with lyrics by Alan and Marilyn Bergman. It was recorded for the soundtrack of the 1973 film of the same name, starring Streisand and Robert Redford.
Lyrically, “The Way We Were” reflects on memories of a past relationship, evoking nostalgia for a time when things were simpler and filled with love. The song’s lyrics express longing and bittersweet emotions as the narrator recalls moments shared with a former lover.
Musically, “The Way We Were” features a tender and wistful melody, accompanied by lush orchestration that enhances its emotional impact. Streisand’s powerful and emotive vocals convey the depth of feeling in the lyrics, making the song a poignant and memorable ballad.
“The Way We Were” became a major hit for Streisand, topping charts and winning several awards, including the Academy Award for Best Original Song and the Grammy Award for Song of the Year. It has since become one of her signature songs and a classic in popular music, celebrated for its timeless appeal and ability to evoke strong emotions about love and nostalgia.