Few artists have left as indelible a mark on the world of music as Barbra Streisand. With a career spanning over six decades, Streisand’s voice is not just a sound—it’s a force of nature, capable of transporting listeners through a whirlwind of emotions. From her early days as a Broadway sensation to her reign as one of the best-selling recording artists of all time, Streisand has created a legacy that blends raw talent, emotional depth, and an unmatched ability to connect with audiences.
In this article, we celebrate the top 10 most popular Barbra Streisand songs of all time—an impossible task, some might say, given her vast catalog of iconic hits. These songs have not only stood the test of time but have also become anthems of love, heartbreak, and triumph. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just discovering her genius, this list will remind you why Streisand remains a cultural icon and a symbol of artistry at its finest.
So, sit back and prepare to be swept away by the magic of Barbra Streisand. These songs are more than music—they’re the soundtrack of our lives, each one a masterpiece that continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.
1. “People” (1964)
“People” is one of Barbra Streisand’s most celebrated songs, debuting in the Broadway musical Funny Girl, where she portrayed Fanny Brice. The ballad’s universal theme of human connection resonates deeply, exploring the innate need for love and companionship. Written by Jule Styne and Bob Merrill, the song combines heartfelt lyrics with a delicate yet powerful melody, making it a timeless classic. Streisand’s performance brings out the vulnerability in the song, her emotive voice soaring through the poignant refrain, “People who need people are the luckiest people in the world.” The rich orchestration perfectly complements her vocals, creating an elegant balance between intimacy and grandeur.
When the single was released, it became an instant hit, solidifying Streisand’s place as one of the most talented performers of her generation. Beyond its commercial success, “People” remains a staple in Streisand’s live performances and is often cited as one of the greatest love ballads in musical theater history. Its message of empathy and connection transcends time, inspiring audiences for decades. Whether in the context of Funny Girl or as a standalone piece, “People” continues to remind listeners of the power of relationships and the importance of cherishing those we hold dear.
2. “The Way We Were” (1973)
“The Way We Were” is a defining song in Barbra Streisand’s career, serving as the theme for the 1973 romantic drama of the same name. Written by Marvin Hamlisch and lyricists Alan and Marilyn Bergman, this ballad is a poignant exploration of love and memory, perfectly encapsulating the bittersweet nature of relationships. Streisand’s performance is hauntingly beautiful, her rich, expressive voice imbuing each line with raw emotion.
The song’s opening lines, “Memories, light the corners of my mind,” evoke a sense of nostalgia that resonates universally, while the lush orchestration adds depth to its reflective tone. Streisand’s ability to convey both heartache and tenderness makes “The Way We Were” unforgettable. The song earned widespread acclaim, winning an Academy Award for Best Original Song and a Grammy Award for Song of the Year, cementing its place in both film and music history.
Its enduring appeal lies in its relatability, as it speaks to anyone who has loved deeply and experienced the pain of letting go. Decades after its release, “The Way We Were” remains a timeless classic, a testament to Streisand’s artistry and her ability to touch the hearts of listeners around the world.
3. “Evergreen (Love Theme from *A Star Is Born*)” (1976)
“Evergreen” is one of Barbra Streisand’s most iconic songs, written for the 1976 film A Star Is Born. Co-written with lyricist Paul Williams, the song captures the enduring beauty of love with its poetic lyrics and tender melody. Streisand’s delivery is deeply intimate, her voice soft yet powerful, conveying a vulnerability that draws listeners into the emotional core of the song.
The understated arrangement, featuring gentle guitar and strings, allows Streisand’s vocals to take center stage. Her ability to convey passion and sincerity makes “Evergreen” resonate deeply, creating a timeless anthem for love. The song’s central lyric, “Love, soft as an easy chair,” beautifully encapsulates its message of comfort and security in a relationship.
“Evergreen” achieved critical and commercial success, earning Streisand an Academy Award for Best Original Song and a Grammy Award for Song of the Year. It became a wedding favorite and a signature piece in Streisand’s repertoire. The simplicity and elegance of “Evergreen” continue to captivate audiences, reminding listeners of the beauty found in lasting love. Even decades later, the song remains a poignant expression of devotion, solidifying its place as one of Streisand’s most treasured works.
4. “Don’t Rain on My Parade” (1964)
“Don’t Rain on My Parade” is a powerhouse anthem from the Broadway musical Funny Girl, showcasing Barbra Streisand’s incredible vocal talent and commanding stage presence. Written by Jule Styne and Bob Merrill, the song reflects the defiance and determination of its character, Fanny Brice, and has become one of Streisand’s most recognizable performances.
With bold lyrics like, “I’m gonna live and live now, get what I want, I know how,” the song captures the spirit of confidence and resilience. Streisand’s dynamic delivery, paired with the song’s lively orchestration, creates an electrifying energy that inspires listeners to take charge of their own destinies. Her ability to express both vulnerability and strength adds a multidimensional quality to the performance, making it relatable and empowering.
When Streisand reprised the song in the 1968 film adaptation of Funny Girl, it became even more iconic, solidifying her as a tour de force in both musical theater and cinema. “Don’t Rain on My Parade” has since been covered by countless artists, but none match the passion and authenticity of Streisand’s original rendition. It remains a timeless anthem of self-belief, encouraging audiences to face challenges head-on and live unapologetically.
5. “You Don’t Bring Me Flowers” (1978)
“You Don’t Bring Me Flowers” is a poignant duet between Barbra Streisand and Neil Diamond that captures the heartache of a relationship falling apart. Written by Neil Diamond, Alan Bergman, and Marilyn Bergman, the song’s conversational style and emotional depth strike a powerful chord with listeners.
The lyrics paint a vivid picture of two people drifting apart, their love once vibrant but now fading into routine and distance. Lines like “You hardly talk to me anymore when I come through the door at the end of the day” express a longing for connection that feels heartbreakingly real. Streisand and Diamond’s voices blend seamlessly, their chemistry palpable as they bring the song’s story to life.
Initially recorded separately by both artists, the duet version came about after a radio DJ mixed their individual recordings together. The unexpected pairing became a sensation, and the official collaboration quickly climbed the charts, becoming a number-one hit. Its raw emotion and relatable theme have made it a classic, resonating with anyone who has experienced the pain of love fading away. Decades later, “You Don’t Bring Me Flowers” remains a testament to the power of storytelling in music and the undeniable magic of Streisand and Diamond’s vocal pairing.
6. “Woman in Love” (1980)
“Woman in Love” is a sweeping ballad written by Barry and Robin Gibb of the Bee Gees, showcasing Barbra Streisand’s unmatched vocal ability and emotional depth. The song was the lead single from her Guilty album, a collaboration with the Gibb brothers, and became an international sensation, topping charts worldwide.
With its lush production and heartfelt lyrics, “Woman in Love” captures the intensity and devotion of romantic love. Lines like “I stumble and fall, but I give you it all” express a vulnerability that resonates deeply with listeners. Streisand’s soaring vocals bring a raw power to the track, conveying both the joy and the challenges of being in love.
The song’s dramatic arrangement, featuring sweeping strings and a steady beat, provides a perfect backdrop for Streisand’s voice to shine. Its universal appeal and timeless quality have made it one of her signature songs, celebrated for its emotional authenticity. “Woman in Love” earned Streisand a Grammy nomination and remains a standout track in her extensive catalog. Even decades after its release, it continues to captivate audiences with its passion and elegance, solidifying its place as one of the greatest love ballads of all time.
7. “Guilty” (1980)
“Guilty,” a duet between Barbra Streisand and Barry Gibb, is a sophisticated blend of pop and soul that highlights their incredible vocal chemistry. The song serves as the title track of Streisand’s Grammy-winning album Guilty, which was entirely produced by the Gibb brothers. With its smooth rhythms and sensual lyrics, “Guilty” perfectly encapsulates the essence of late 1970s and early 1980s pop music.
The song explores themes of passion and romantic commitment, with lines like “We’ve got nothing to be guilty of” expressing the freedom and joy of love without regret. Streisand’s emotive delivery contrasts beautifully with Gibb’s falsetto, creating a dynamic interplay that adds depth to the track. The infectious melody and polished production make “Guilty” a standout in Streisand’s discography.
Upon its release, the song became a major hit, reaching the top 10 on charts worldwide and earning both critical and commercial success. Its timeless appeal lies in its polished composition and the undeniable synergy between Streisand and Gibb. Decades later, “Guilty” remains a fan favorite, celebrated for its smooth blend of romance and sophistication, and continues to showcase Streisand’s versatility as an artist capable of crossing genres effortlessly.
8. “Somewhere” (1985)
Barbra Streisand’s rendition of “Somewhere,” from the classic musical West Side Story, is a stunning interpretation that highlights her ability to reimagine iconic songs. Featured on her The Broadway Album, Streisand’s version of this anthem of hope and longing breathes new life into Leonard Bernstein and Stephen Sondheim’s beloved composition.
The song’s lyrics, “There’s a place for us, somewhere a place for us,” express an aspirational yearning for peace, love, and acceptance. Streisand’s emotive delivery brings a new layer of introspection to the song, capturing both its tender fragility and its soaring optimism. Her flawless vocal technique allows her to navigate the intricate melody with ease, culminating in a climactic finale that leaves listeners spellbound.
Critically acclaimed upon release, Streisand’s “Somewhere” showcases her ability to channel deep emotion through her music, making the song resonate with audiences on a personal level. The orchestration, rich and dramatic, enhances the poignancy of her performance. Decades later, her rendition of “Somewhere” remains a testament to her unparalleled artistry and her ability to transform classic theater pieces into timeless pop masterpieces that continue to inspire and uplift listeners worldwide.
9. “Papa, Can You Hear Me?” (1983)
“Papa, Can You Hear Me?” is a deeply moving ballad from the 1983 film Yentl, a project Barbra Streisand directed, co-wrote, and starred in. The song is a poignant exploration of faith, love, and self-discovery, perfectly reflecting the emotional journey of Streisand’s character, Yentl. Written by Michel Legrand, Alan Bergman, and Marilyn Bergman, the song’s haunting melody and introspective lyrics have captivated audiences for decades.
The lyrics express a heartfelt plea for guidance and understanding, with lines like “Can you hear me? Can you see me?” encapsulating a longing for connection. Streisand’s performance is both intimate and powerful, her voice imbued with vulnerability and strength as she conveys the character’s inner turmoil. The song’s orchestration, featuring a delicate interplay of strings and piano, adds to its emotional weight.
“Papa, Can You Hear Me?” earned critical acclaim, receiving an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song. Its universal themes of searching for purpose and belonging continue to resonate with audiences, making it one of Streisand’s most iconic and cherished works. The song is a testament to her ability to tell stories through music, leaving an indelible mark on both film and music history.
10. “Memory” (1981)
Although originally written for the musical Cats, Barbra Streisand’s rendition of “Memory” stands out as a masterful interpretation of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s iconic ballad. Released as a single in 1981, Streisand’s version showcases her ability to transform a theatrical piece into an emotive pop classic.
The song’s lyrics, written by Trevor Nunn, are a wistful reflection on time, longing, and lost opportunities, making it a deeply relatable piece. Streisand’s nuanced performance captures both the sorrow and the quiet strength within the song, her voice effortlessly moving between tender whispers and soaring crescendos. The orchestration complements her vocals beautifully, with lush strings and gentle piano underscoring the track’s emotional depth.
Streisand’s “Memory” became an instant hit, climbing the charts and further solidifying her reputation as a master interpreter of powerful ballads. Her ability to convey raw emotion while maintaining technical precision elevates this rendition above many others, giving it a timeless quality. For many, Streisand’s version of “Memory” is definitive, embodying the song’s themes of nostalgia and resilience. Decades later, it remains a beloved classic, showcasing Streisand’s unparalleled artistry and her capacity to make any song her own.