With a voice that transcends generations, Barbra Streisand has solidified her place as one of the greatest artists in music history. Known for her remarkable vocal range and emotional depth, Streisand’s career spans decades, earning her legions of fans and countless accolades. Whether performing Broadway classics or heart-wrenching ballads, her ability to connect with listeners is unparalleled. From the moment she burst onto the scene in the 1960s, Streisand has delivered hit after hit, with songs that have become timeless anthems across the globe. Her artistry is not just about the notes she sings, but the way she tells stories with each performance, evoking passion, sorrow, joy, and triumph.
In this article, we dive into the top 10 most popular Barbra Streisand songs of all time—those iconic tracks that have left an indelible mark on music history. From her breakout hits to unforgettable movie soundtracks, these songs showcase why Streisand remains a legend in the industry. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering her brilliance for the first time, these selections represent the very best of Barbra, bringing her signature blend of grace, power, and emotion to the forefront. Let’s explore the magic behind her most beloved tunes!
1. People (1964)
“People” stands as one of Barbra Streisand’s most defining and celebrated songs, originally introduced in the 1964 Broadway musical Funny Girl, where Streisand portrayed the iconic role of Fanny Brice. This tender ballad, written by Jule Styne and Bob Merrill, became an instant classic and has remained synonymous with Streisand throughout her career. The song beautifully captures the universal longing for love and connection, as Streisand sings with vulnerability and heartfelt emotion. Its lyrics express the essential human desire for relationships, with lines like “people who need people are the luckiest people in the world,” touching hearts across generations. Streisand’s interpretation of the song transcends the performance; her rich, soaring vocals paired with the poignant, introspective lyrics convey an authenticity that resonates deeply with listeners. “People” was a defining moment in Streisand’s career, solidifying her as a vocal powerhouse and an emotional storyteller. Decades later, it continues to hold a special place in the world of musical theater and in Streisand’s extensive repertoire, reminding audiences of her unparalleled ability to convey the depth of the human experience through music. Whether heard on stage or in recordings, “People” remains an enduring symbol of Streisand’s timeless talent.
2. The Way We Were (1973)
Released in 1973 as the title track for the film The Way We Were, this ballad became one of Barbra Streisand’s most iconic and lasting contributions to music and cinema alike. Written by Marvin Hamlisch, with lyrics by Alan and Marilyn Bergman, the song captures the bittersweet nature of reminiscing about a past romance, exploring themes of love, nostalgia, and regret. Streisand’s performance is a masterclass in emotional restraint and vocal power, as she delicately balances the tender melancholy of the song’s lyrics with her rich, expressive voice. The line “Memories may be beautiful and yet, what’s too painful to remember, we simply choose to forget” conveys a profound message about the nature of memory and heartbreak, resonating with listeners who have experienced the complexities of love lost. “The Way We Were” became a commercial success, topping the charts and earning Streisand an Academy Award for Best Original Song. The track’s timelessness is further emphasized by its continued popularity across generations, solidifying its status as one of the greatest love ballads in American music history. Streisand’s rendition remains the definitive version, showcasing her talent for blending emotional storytelling with musical brilliance.
3. Evergreen (Love Theme from *A Star Is Born*) (1976)
“Evergreen,” the love theme from the 1976 remake of A Star Is Born, is another jewel in Barbra Streisand’s remarkable catalog of timeless classics. Written by Streisand herself, with lyrics by the legendary Paul Williams, “Evergreen” is a romantic ballad that perfectly encapsulates the beauty of love in its purest form. The soft, tender melody combined with Streisand’s elegant vocal delivery creates an intimate and deeply moving experience for the listener. With lyrics like “Love soft as an easy chair, love fresh as the morning air,” the song captures the feeling of enduring love, making it a favorite for weddings and romantic occasions. Streisand’s performance is delicate yet powerful, as her voice gracefully rises and falls with the emotional waves of the song. “Evergreen” went on to win both the Academy Award and the Grammy for Best Original Song, solidifying its place in music history. Its lush orchestration and timeless lyrics have helped it endure as a fan favorite for decades. “Evergreen” is not just a love song—it’s an anthem of lasting devotion, delivered with Streisand’s signature emotional depth and vocal precision.
4. Don’t Rain on My Parade (1964)
Bold, brassy, and full of unrelenting energy, “Don’t Rain on My Parade” is one of Barbra Streisand’s most electrifying performances, introduced to the world in the 1964 Broadway musical Funny Girl. The song is a declaration of self-empowerment and determination, with Streisand’s performance capturing the essence of a woman determined to take control of her destiny, no matter the obstacles. Its fast-paced rhythm and triumphant brass instrumentation create a sense of unstoppable momentum, matching Streisand’s fiery delivery of lines like “I gotta fly once, I gotta try once, only can die once, right sir?” The song’s indomitable spirit is infectious, and it quickly became an anthem of resilience and personal strength. Streisand’s interpretation of the song is so iconic that it has become inseparable from her persona, making it a staple in both her live performances and musical theater as a whole. The song’s popularity has endured over the decades, inspiring countless renditions in theater and television. Yet, no version captures the same level of intensity and passion as Streisand’s original. “Don’t Rain on My Parade” is more than just a song—it’s a rallying cry for those chasing their dreams.
5. Woman in Love (1980)
“Woman in Love,” released in 1980, stands as one of Barbra Streisand’s most commercially successful songs, cementing her status as a global superstar. Written by Barry and Robin Gibb of the Bee Gees for Streisand’s Guilty album, the song is a sweeping, dramatic ballad that captures the intense emotions of being deeply in love. Streisand’s soaring vocals effortlessly glide through the song’s complex melodies, delivering lines like “I am a woman in love, and I’ll do anything to get you into my world, and hold you within” with both power and vulnerability. The song’s lush orchestration and the Gibbs’ signature harmonies create a rich musical backdrop, making it an irresistible hit on both pop and adult contemporary charts worldwide. “Woman in Love” reached number one in multiple countries, including the United States, and became one of the best-selling singles of Streisand’s career. Its passionate lyrics, paired with Streisand’s emotionally charged performance, make it a quintessential love song that resonates with listeners across generations. “Woman in Love” remains a timeless classic, showcasing Streisand’s ability to connect with listeners on a deeply emotional level while delivering a powerhouse vocal performance.
6. Memory (1981)
When Barbra Streisand recorded her rendition of “Memory” in 1981, she breathed new life into the already beloved song from Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical Cats. Although Streisand never performed the song on stage, her recording became iconic, capturing the song’s deep sense of longing, nostalgia, and introspection. The haunting melody, paired with Streisand’s emotive delivery, creates a deeply moving experience for the listener. “Memory” tells the story of a character reflecting on their past and yearning for a sense of belonging, with lines like “touch me, it’s so easy to leave me” capturing the fragility of the human experience. Streisand’s version, with its lush orchestration and her signature vocal control, became a pop standard, allowing the song to transcend its theatrical roots and enter mainstream consciousness. The emotional depth that Streisand brings to the song makes it one of the standout recordings in her vast catalog. “Memory” remains a testament to Streisand’s unparalleled ability to transform a musical theater piece into a timeless, universally relatable pop ballad, solidifying its place as one of her most memorable and beloved recordings.
7. Guilty (1980)
“Guilty,” the title track from Barbra Streisand’s 1980 Guilty album, is an infectious pop duet that showcases the undeniable chemistry between Streisand and Barry Gibb of the Bee Gees. Written by Gibb and featuring his signature falsetto harmonies, the song perfectly blends Streisand’s powerful vocals with the smooth, laid-back rhythm of 1980s pop. “Guilty” is a playful and seductive love song, with lyrics like “we got nothing to be guilty of, our love will climb any mountain” capturing the carefree, confident vibe of the era. Streisand and Gibb’s vocal interplay creates a dynamic and engaging performance, making it one of the standout tracks on the album. The song’s infectious groove and polished production helped it become a massive hit, earning Streisand and Gibb a Grammy Award for Best Pop Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group. “Guilty” remains one of Streisand’s most beloved collaborations, showcasing her ability to seamlessly transition between genres while maintaining her signature vocal style. The track’s enduring popularity is a testament to the magic created when two musical powerhouses come together to produce a timeless hit.
8. You Don’t Bring Me Flowers (1978)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5dRkAfH19rE&list=RD5dRkAfH19rE&start_radio=1
“You Don’t Bring Me Flowers” is one of Barbra Streisand’s most unforgettable duets, recorded in 1978 with fellow superstar Neil Diamond. The song, originally written by Neil Diamond and Alan and Marilyn Bergman, tells the heart-wrenching story of a couple whose relationship has lost its passion and intimacy over time. Streisand and Diamond’s voices blend seamlessly together, creating a powerful and emotional listening experience as they trade verses and harmonize on lines like “You don’t bring me flowers, you don’t sing me love songs anymore.” The song’s simple arrangement allows the emotional weight of the lyrics and the raw vulnerability of the vocal performances to take center stage, making it an instant classic. “You Don’t Bring Me Flowers” topped the charts and became one of the biggest hits of the year, earning a Grammy nomination for Best Pop Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group. Its bittersweet message about the fading spark in a relationship resonated with listeners, making it a timeless ballad that continues to connect with audiences. Streisand and Diamond’s collaboration remains one of the most iconic duets in music history.
9. Somewhere (1985)
Barbra Streisand’s rendition of “Somewhere” from the musical West Side Story is a stunning reinterpretation of a classic that showcases her unparalleled vocal talent and emotional depth. Released in 1985, Streisand’s version of the song resonated deeply with listeners during a time of social and political change, as its message of hope for a better future carried a universal appeal. With lines like “there’s a place for us, somewhere a place for us,” the song expresses a longing for peace, acceptance, and understanding, themes that were particularly relevant in the mid-1980s. Streisand’s powerful vocals elevate the song’s emotional weight, giving it new life and making it a standout hit. The lush orchestration and Streisand’s flawless vocal control create an epic, cinematic experience that transports the listener. Her interpretation of “Somewhere” not only pays homage to the original but also brings a fresh perspective that connects with contemporary audiences. The emotional depth and vocal precision of Streisand’s performance made the song one of her most popular recordings, solidifying her ability to take a beloved musical theater piece and make it entirely her own.
10. No More Tears (Enough Is Enough) (1979)
“No More Tears (Enough Is Enough)” is a bold and empowering disco anthem that pairs Barbra Streisand with the Queen of Disco herself, Donna Summer. Released in 1979 at the height of the disco craze, the song was a significant departure from Streisand’s usual style, diving headfirst into the high-energy world of dance music. The track’s infectious beat and fierce lyrics, which declare independence and self-empowerment, made it an instant hit on dance floors across the globe. Lines like “Enough is enough, I can’t go on” resonated with listeners seeking an anthem of strength and liberation. The chemistry between Streisand and Summer is electric, as their powerful voices blend seamlessly, creating a dynamic performance that captures the essence of female empowerment. “No More Tears” quickly climbed the charts, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100, and became one of the defining duets of the disco era. Its message of reclaiming one’s power and walking away from toxic situations continues to resonate with audiences today. The song remains a shining example of Streisand’s versatility as an artist, proving that she can excel in any genre.
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.
