Barbra Streisand is a living legend, an icon whose voice has transcended generations, genres, and trends. With a career spanning over six decades, Streisand has cemented herself as one of the most beloved and influential performers in music history. Whether she’s belting out a soaring ballad or delivering a heartfelt love song, her voice is unmistakable—rich, powerful, and deeply emotional. From Broadway classics to chart-topping pop hits, Streisand’s musical catalog is as diverse as it is impressive.
But with such an extensive collection of songs, which ones truly stand out as her best? In this article, we’re counting down the top 10 most popular Barbra Streisand songs of all time. These are the tracks that have defined her career, resonated with millions of fans, and continue to be celebrated for their timeless appeal. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering her music for the first time, these songs showcase the extraordinary range, talent, and emotion that have made Barbra Streisand a global superstar. So sit back, relax, and get ready to be swept away by the magic of Barbra Streisand’s greatest hits!
1. “The Way We Were” (1973)
Barbra Streisand’s “The Way We Were” is a hallmark of her career and a song that defined the ’70s. Released in 1973 as the theme for the film The Way We Were, where Streisand starred alongside Robert Redford, the song paints a vivid picture of nostalgia, love, and loss. With lyrics that reflect on the beauty and melancholy of memories, it resonates as both a personal love song and a universal anthem. The orchestration is lush, with sweeping strings and a gentle piano accompaniment that elevate Streisand’s emotive voice. Her delivery, filled with longing and reflection, made the song unforgettable and helped it earn an Academy Award for Best Original Song and a Grammy for Song of the Year.
The track’s poignant melody and lyrics invite listeners to think about their own cherished memories and past relationships, giving it an emotional resonance that few songs achieve. Streisand’s powerful vocal performance brings an authenticity that touches deeply, adding layers of meaning and sentiment to each verse. “The Way We Were” became an instant classic upon its release and has endured as one of Streisand’s signature songs, a testament to her ability to convey complex emotions with elegance and depth. Even decades later, the song remains a poignant reminder of the bittersweet nature of love and memory, securing its place in the annals of timeless music.
2. “Woman in Love” (1980)
In 1980, Barbra Streisand collaborated with Barry and Robin Gibb of the Bee Gees to create “Woman in Love,” one of her most commercially successful songs. Released on her Guilty album, the song quickly climbed the charts and reached the No. 1 position in multiple countries, solidifying Streisand’s global appeal. “Woman in Love” is a passionate declaration of devotion, capturing the powerful emotions that love evokes. The melody, a classic pop anthem, is irresistible, and Streisand’s soaring vocals give the song a grand, almost cinematic feel. Her voice conveys a mix of vulnerability and strength, as she brings the lyrics to life with heartfelt conviction.
The song’s infectious rhythm and powerful lyrics make it an anthem for anyone who has felt the intensity of love. Streisand’s interpretation adds layers to the song, turning it into a tale of unwavering affection and commitment. Her collaboration with Barry Gibb brings a unique dynamic, blending their distinct styles to create a rich, unforgettable sound. “Woman in Love” captures Streisand’s unparalleled ability to convey complex emotions with clarity and power, making it one of the most iconic love songs of the 1980s. It’s a song that continues to resonate, drawing in new listeners while remaining a favorite for longtime fans.
3. “Evergreen (Love Theme from *A Star Is Born*)” (1976)
“Evergreen” is a deeply romantic ballad that served as the love theme for the 1976 film A Star Is Born, starring Barbra Streisand and Kris Kristofferson. Co-written by Streisand herself, the song became an instant classic, winning an Academy Award for Best Original Song. The lyrics explore the beauty of enduring love, a theme that resonates universally. Streisand’s voice is tender and nuanced, perfectly capturing the depth of feeling expressed in the lyrics. Her delicate phrasing adds a sense of intimacy, making the song feel like a private conversation between lovers.
The arrangement is simple yet elegant, with a soft guitar that complements Streisand’s voice without overshadowing it. This restraint allows the emotional weight of the lyrics to take center stage. Streisand’s performance is marked by subtlety and grace, as she conveys the song’s themes of love and commitment with an understated power that only she can deliver. “Evergreen” remains one of Streisand’s most cherished songs, a testament to her ability to create music that touches the heart. Its timeless quality has made it a favorite at weddings and a staple in Streisand’s live performances, celebrating the enduring nature of true love.
4. “People” (1964)
“People,” from the Broadway musical Funny Girl, has become synonymous with Barbra Streisand. Released in 1964, this song marked a pivotal moment in her career, showcasing her ability to convey profound emotion and solidifying her status as a star. The song’s lyrics speak to the importance of human connection, resonating with audiences on a deeply personal level. Streisand’s interpretation is both powerful and nuanced, capturing the longing and vulnerability that make the song so poignant.
With its sweeping orchestration and heartfelt lyrics, “People” became an anthem for anyone who values companionship and understanding. Streisand’s performance is both tender and commanding, a rare combination that highlights her unique talent. Her vocal delivery, filled with warmth and sensitivity, brings out the song’s emotional depth, making it one of her most enduring hits. “People” has remained a staple in Streisand’s repertoire and is widely regarded as one of her signature songs. Its success helped launch her career to new heights, and it continues to be a beloved classic, capturing the essence of what it means to connect with others.
5. “You Don’t Bring Me Flowers” (with Neil Diamond) (1978)
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In 1978, Barbra Streisand and Neil Diamond joined forces to create “You Don’t Bring Me Flowers,” a duet that explores the complexities of a relationship on the verge of ending. Originally recorded as two separate solo tracks, the duet version emerged after a radio station created a mashup of their performances, sparking massive public interest. The song’s lyrics, which tell the story of a couple struggling with fading love, struck a chord with listeners, and the duet quickly climbed to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
The song’s conversational style and raw emotion create an intimate atmosphere, as Streisand and Diamond’s voices blend together seamlessly. Their heartfelt delivery brings a sense of authenticity to the song, making it a relatable anthem for anyone who has experienced the pain of a relationship drifting apart. The interplay between their voices, with Streisand’s tenderness and Diamond’s grit, adds layers to the song’s emotional landscape. “You Don’t Bring Me Flowers” remains one of the most memorable duets of all time, a classic tear-jerker that resonates with audiences to this day.
6. “Memory” (1981)
“Memory,” originally from Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cats, has been covered by numerous artists, but Barbra Streisand’s 1981 rendition is often considered one of the most iconic. Streisand’s voice, rich and emotive, brings a new dimension to the song’s themes of nostalgia, yearning, and self-reflection. Her interpretation captures the melancholy and beauty of the lyrics, making it a standout track that has endured for decades.
Streisand’s version of “Memory” became a chart-topping hit, further solidifying her reputation as a master interpreter of Broadway classics. Her vocal delivery is both powerful and nuanced, conveying a deep sense of loss and hope. The orchestration complements her voice, allowing the emotional weight of the song to shine through. Streisand’s rendition of “Memory” continues to be celebrated as one of her finest performances, capturing the universal longing for the past and the bittersweet nature of memories.
7. “No More Tears (Enough Is Enough)” (with Donna Summer) (1979)
In 1979, Barbra Streisand and disco icon Donna Summer came together for “No More Tears (Enough Is Enough),” a powerful anthem about breaking free from a toxic relationship. The duet, which became an instant hit, blends Streisand’s soulful style with Summer’s vibrant energy, creating a dynamic track that resonated with audiences around the world. The song’s message of empowerment and self-respect struck a chord with listeners, making it a disco classic that has endured the test of time.
The chemistry between Streisand and Summer is electric, with both singers bringing their unique styles to the track. Their voices complement each other perfectly, creating a sense of unity and strength that amplifies the song’s message. “No More Tears” reached the top of the Billboard Hot 100, and its infectious beat and empowering lyrics made it a favorite on dance floors. The duet remains a beloved anthem, showcasing Streisand and Summer’s vocal prowess and their ability to connect with listeners through music.
8. “Papa, Can You Hear Me?” (1983)
“Papa, Can You Hear Me?” is a hauntingly beautiful ballad from the 1983 film Yentl, in which Barbra Streisand starred and directed. The song, which explores the deep bond between a daughter and her father, is one of the film’s most memorable moments. Streisand’s voice is delicate and filled with emotion, capturing the vulnerability and longing expressed in the lyrics.
The song’s orchestration is subtle, allowing Streisand’s voice to take center stage. Her performance is both intimate and powerful, conveying a deep sense of love and loss. “Papa, Can You Hear Me?” resonates with anyone who has experienced the pain of losing a loved one, making it a timeless piece that continues to touch audiences. The song’s success helped solidify Yentl as a beloved film, and Streisand’s performance remains one of her most moving.
9. “Guilty” (featuring Barry Gibb) (1980)
“Guilty,” a duet with Bee Gees’ Barry Gibb, is the title track from Streisand’s 1980 album and a sultry pop hit that showcases her versatility. The chemistry between Streisand and Gibb is palpable, with their voices blending seamlessly to create a smooth, captivating sound. The song’s laid-back groove and catchy melody made it an instant hit, reaching the top of the charts and becoming a fan favorite.
The lyrics, which explore themes of love and temptation, are brought to life by the duo’s expressive performances. Streisand’s powerful voice contrasts beautifully with Gibb’s softer tone, creating a sense of tension and allure. “Guilty” remains one of the standout tracks of Streisand’s career, a testament to her ability to navigate different musical genres while staying true to her unique style. The song’s success helped establish Streisand as a pop icon and demonstrated her ability to connect with audiences across genres.
10. “Somewhere” (1985)
Barbra Streisand’s 1985 rendition of “Somewhere” from West Side Story is a breathtaking interpretation of this hopeful ballad. Her powerful voice brings a new dimension to the song’s message of longing for a better future, adding emotional depth and resonance. Streisand’s performance is both tender and commanding, capturing the dreamlike quality of the original while infusing it with her own passion.
The arrangement complements Streisand’s voice, allowing her to fully express the song’s themes of hope and aspiration. “Somewhere” became a fan favorite and charted internationally, showcasing Streisand’s ability to masterfully interpret Broadway classics. Her rendition remains one of the most celebrated versions of the song, a powerful reminder of her talent and her impact on the world of music. The song continues to inspire listeners, capturing the universal desire for peace and a brighter tomorrow.
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.
