Barbra Streisand is one of the most iconic and influential singers of the 20th century, known for her powerful voice, stunning performances, and timeless music. With a career spanning over six decades, Streisand has amassed an impressive discography of hits that have touched the hearts of millions around the world. Her music has transcended genres, from pop to show tunes, jazz to classical, and everything in between. In this article, we will take a look at the top 10 best Barbra Streisand songs of all time. From her early days in the 1960s to her latest releases in the 21st century, we will explore the breadth and depth of Streisand’s musical talent and examine what makes these songs so special. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to Streisand’s music, this list is sure to showcase some of her finest work and leave you in awe of her incredible vocal range and artistry. So sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the top 10 best Barbra Streisand songs of all time.
1. “Memory”
“Memory” is a song from the hit musical “Cats” and was made famous by Barbra Streisand in 1981. The song was written by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Trevor Nunn and has a hauntingly beautiful melody, with Streisand’s powerful vocals bringing the lyrics to life. The lyrics describe the nostalgia and longing for a past love or time, with memories that still linger.
The music video for “Memory” features Streisand singing the song in front of a black backdrop, with images of cats and the moon interspersed throughout. The video perfectly captures the beauty and melancholy of the song and Streisand’s performance is nothing short of breathtaking.
2. “Don’t Rain on My Parade”
“Don’t Rain on My Parade” is a classic showtune from the musical “Funny Girl,” in which Barbra Streisand originated the role of Fanny Brice on Broadway in 1964. The song was written by Jule Styne and Bob Merrill and has a lively, upbeat melody that showcases Streisand’s incredible range and vocal power. The lyrics describe the determination and resilience of a young woman who refuses to let anyone hold her back or rain on her parade.
The music video for “Don’t Rain on My Parade” features Streisand singing the song in front of a live audience, with clips of her performance in “Funny Girl” interspersed throughout. The video perfectly captures the energy and spirit of the song and Streisand’s performance is nothing short of electrifying. “Don’t Rain on My Parade” remains one of Streisand’s most iconic and beloved songs, inspiring generations of young women to follow their dreams and never give up.
3. “I Finally Found Someone” with Bryan Adams
“I Finally Found Someone” is a beautiful duet by Barbra Streisand and Canadian rock star Bryan Adams, released in 1996. The song was written by Streisand and Adams, along with Robert John “Mutt” Lange and Marvin Hamlisch. The song has a slow, romantic melody, with the two singers’ voices complementing each other perfectly. The lyrics describe the joy of finally finding true love after a long search, and the relief and happiness that comes with it.
The music video for “I Finally Found Someone” features Streisand and Adams performing the song together, interspersed with scenes from the movie “The Mirror Has Two Faces,” which Streisand directed and starred in. The video perfectly captures the emotion of the song and the chemistry between the two singers.
4. “Evergreen”
“Evergreen” is a classic love song by Barbra Streisand, released in 1976. The song was written by Streisand and Paul Williams and was the theme song for the movie “A Star is Born,” which Streisand starred in. The song has a slow, romantic melody, with Streisand’s powerful vocals bringing the lyrics to life. The lyrics describe the eternal nature of true love and the hope that it brings.
The music video for “Evergreen” features Streisand singing the song in front of a colorful backdrop, with images of nature and flowers interspersed throughout. The video perfectly captures the beauty and timeless quality of the song, and Streisand’s performance is nothing short of stunning.
5. “Woman in Love”
“Woman in Love” is a classic love ballad by Barbra Streisand that was released in 1980. The song was written by the legendary songwriting duo Barry and Robin Gibb of the Bee Gees. The song has a slow, romantic melody, with Streisand’s signature powerful vocals bringing the lyrics to life. The song tells the story of a woman who has fallen deeply in love and is struggling to express her feelings to her partner. The lyrics are both heartfelt and vulnerable, making the song a relatable and timeless classic.
Streisand’s rendition of “Woman in Love” was an immediate success, topping the charts in many countries and becoming one of her signature songs. The music video for the song features Streisand in a flowing white dress, standing in front of a wind machine, and singing her heart out. The video perfectly captures the emotion of the song and Streisand’s incredible talent as a performer.
6. “Guilty” with Barry Gibb
“Guilty” is a duet by Barbra Streisand and Barry Gibb of the Bee Gees, released in 1980. The song was written by the Gibb brothers and is a catchy, upbeat disco-pop track with a romantic theme. The lyrics describe two lovers who are hesitant to admit their feelings for each other, fearing rejection and vulnerability. The song features Streisand and Gibb’s harmonizing vocals and is backed by a lively orchestral arrangement.
The music video for “Guilty” features Streisand and Gibb singing and dancing together on a brightly lit stage. The video perfectly captures the energy and fun of the song, and the chemistry between the two singers is undeniable. “Guilty” was a massive hit for Streisand and Gibb, reaching the top of the charts in many countries and becoming one of the most successful collaborations of their careers. The song’s upbeat tempo and infectious melody make it a timeless classic and a must-have on any party playlist.
7. “You Don’t Bring Me Flowers” with Neil Diamond
“You Don’t Bring Me Flowers” is a duet between Barbra Streisand and Neil Diamond, released in 1978. The song was written by Neil Diamond, Marilyn Bergman, and Alan Bergman and tells the story of a couple whose love has faded over time. The song’s melancholy lyrics and gentle melody perfectly capture the bittersweet emotions of a failing relationship.
The music video for “You Don’t Bring Me Flowers” features Streisand and Diamond singing the song together on a stage, with clips of a couple going through a breakup interspersed throughout. The video captures the sadness and regret of the lyrics and the chemistry between Streisand and Diamond is palpable.
8. “What Kind of Fool” with Barry Gibb
“What Kind of Fool” is a duet between Barbra Streisand and Barry Gibb, released in 1980. The song was written by Barry Gibb and Albhy Galuten and has a smooth, soulful melody that perfectly showcases the two singers’ vocal talents. The lyrics describe the confusion and heartbreak of a couple whose relationship is falling apart, and their desperation to hold on to what they once had.
The music video for “What Kind of Fool” features Streisand and Gibb singing the song together in a studio, with footage of a couple going through a breakup interspersed throughout. The video captures the sadness and frustration of the lyrics, and the chemistry between Streisand and Gibb is palpable. “What Kind of Fool” is a beautiful and emotional duet that showcases the incredible talent of both singers.
9. “The Way We Were”
“The Way We Were” is a classic song by Barbra Streisand, released in 1974. The song was written by Marvin Hamlisch, with lyrics by Alan and Marilyn Bergman. The song has a slow, nostalgic melody, with Streisand’s emotive vocals bringing the lyrics to life. The lyrics describe a past love that will never be forgotten, with memories that still bring joy and pain.
The music video for “The Way We Were” features Streisand singing the song in front of a black backdrop, with images of stars and the night sky interspersed throughout. The video perfectly captures the bittersweet nature of the song and the raw emotion in Streisand’s performance. “The Way We Were” remains one of Streisand’s most beloved and iconic songs, and its timeless beauty continues to captivate listeners to this day.
10. “Tell Him” with Celine Dion
“Tell Him” is a duet by Barbra Streisand and Canadian pop icon Celine Dion, released in 1997. The song was written by David Foster, Linda Thompson, and Walter Afanasieff and has a powerful, upbeat melody that showcases the two singers’ incredible vocal talents. The lyrics describe the nervousness and excitement of confessing one’s feelings to a crush, and the hope that they feel the same way.
The music video for “Tell Him” features Streisand and Dion singing the song together on a brightly lit stage, with images of the ocean and the sky behind them. The video perfectly captures the energy and enthusiasm of the song and the chemistry between the two singers is undeniable.
Samuel Moore 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.
