Barbra Streisand—a name that resonates across generations, a voice that transcends time, and a legacy that defines the very essence of artistry. With a career spanning over six decades, Streisand has cemented herself as one of the most influential performers in music history. Her ability to evoke raw emotion through her powerful vocals and impeccable storytelling has made her a household name and a true icon of the entertainment world.
From breathtaking ballads to show-stopping anthems, Streisand’s repertoire is a treasure trove of unforgettable hits. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just discovering her brilliance, her songs have a way of reaching straight into the soul. But among her vast collection of music, which songs have stood the test of time as the most beloved and enduring?
In this article, we count down the top 10 most popular Barbra Streisand songs of all time—timeless classics that continue to captivate listeners and showcase the unparalleled talent of this legendary artist. Get ready to relive the magic and discover the moments that made Streisand a true queen of music. From glittering Broadway-inspired numbers to heartfelt pop ballads, these songs will remind you why Barbra Streisand is a name that will never fade.
1. People (1964)
Barbra Streisand’s “People” is more than just a beautiful song—it’s a moving meditation on the human need for connection. Originally performed in the Broadway musical Funny Girl in 1964, the song became one of Streisand’s first major hits and quickly took on a life of its own. With tender, evocative lyrics like “People who need people are the luckiest people in the world,” the song touches on a universal truth that resonates with listeners of all backgrounds. Streisand’s expressive voice, full of yearning and nuance, turns each line into an emotional journey. The orchestration is rich and dramatic, yet never overwhelms the raw vulnerability in her performance. “People” helped solidify Streisand’s place as one of the great interpreters of song and remains one of her most iconic recordings. Its themes of love, loneliness, and the courage to open oneself up to others continue to strike a chord with new generations. Whether on stage or on record, “People” stands as a timeless reminder of our shared humanity and the beauty of being emotionally available in a complicated world.
2. The Way We Were (1973)
“The Way We Were” is one of Barbra Streisand’s most beloved ballads, evoking a deep sense of nostalgia and longing. Released in 1973 as the theme song for the film The Way We Were, which starred Streisand alongside Robert Redford, the track quickly rose to the top of the charts and became a Grammy-winning classic. The lyrics reflect on the memories of a past relationship, exploring how love and time can be both beautiful and painful. With lines like “Memories may be beautiful, and yet, what’s too painful to remember, we simply choose to forget,” the song gently confronts the bittersweet nature of holding on to what once was. Streisand’s voice is tender, rich with emotional depth, and her delivery is restrained yet powerful, allowing the listener to feel every word. The orchestration, led by Marvin Hamlisch’s composition, supports the sentiment perfectly, swelling just enough to match the weight of the lyrics. “The Way We Were” is not only a defining song in Streisand’s career but also a poignant anthem for anyone who has looked back on a past love with a mix of sadness and fondness.
3. Evergreen (1976)
“Evergreen” is a tender love ballad that showcases Barbra Streisand’s remarkable sensitivity as both a performer and songwriter. Written for the 1976 film A Star Is Born, which she also starred in, Streisand co-wrote the song with composer Paul Williams. The result is a romantic, understated piece that captures the enduring strength of love. With lyrics like “Love, soft as an easy chair… love, fresh as the morning air,” the song paints a picture of love that is both gentle and everlasting. Streisand’s vocal performance is intimate and heartfelt, drawing listeners in with each breath. Her voice floats effortlessly over the soft guitar accompaniment, creating an atmosphere of warmth and vulnerability. “Evergreen” won the Academy Award for Best Original Song and the Grammy for Song of the Year, cementing its place in the canon of great film music. Beyond its accolades, it remains a personal favorite for many fans who appreciate its simplicity and sincerity. This song is a shining example of how Streisand can take a quiet moment and make it feel monumental.
4. Don’t Rain on My Parade (1964)
“Don’t Rain on My Parade” is one of Barbra Streisand’s most electrifying performances—a bold anthem of defiance and self-belief. First introduced in the 1964 Broadway production of Funny Girl, where Streisand played Fanny Brice, the song has become synonymous with her career. Its fast-paced tempo and brassy arrangement perfectly match the fiery determination of the lyrics, which declare that nothing and no one will stand in the way of her dreams. Streisand’s delivery is fearless, her voice soaring over the big band instrumentation with unmatched energy. Lines like “I gotta fly once, I gotta try once, only can die once, right, sir!” reflect a mindset of ambition and risk-taking that is still inspiring decades later. Whether performed on stage, in the film adaptation, or in concert, “Don’t Rain on My Parade” is a show-stopper. It embodies the spirit of independence and resilience, celebrating the courage it takes to stand up and take your shot. Streisand’s dynamic vocals and theatrical flair elevate the song into an empowering declaration of self-worth that continues to thrill audiences to this day.
5. Woman in Love (1980)
Released in 1980, “Woman in Love” marked a powerful new chapter in Barbra Streisand’s career. Written by Barry and Robin Gibb of the Bee Gees, the song combines their trademark lush harmonies and disco-era songwriting with Streisand’s deeply expressive vocals. The result is a dramatic ballad that delves into the all-consuming nature of romantic devotion. Streisand sings, “I am a woman in love, and I’d do anything to get you into my world,” with an intensity that is both passionate and poignant. The sweeping string arrangement and polished production create a grand, cinematic atmosphere that mirrors the song’s emotional depth. “Woman in Love” became a massive international hit, topping charts in the U.S., U.K., and around the world. It was a standout track from her Guilty album, which remains one of the best-selling of her career. What makes the song so enduring is Streisand’s ability to convey vulnerability and strength in a single phrase. It’s a love song, yes, but it’s also a declaration of identity and emotional truth, showcasing the power and range of one of the greatest voices in music history.
6. You Don’t Bring Me Flowers (1978)
“You Don’t Bring Me Flowers” is a heartbreaking duet that captures the quiet, painful unraveling of a once-loving relationship. Released in 1978 and performed alongside Neil Diamond, the song became a massive hit not just for its star power, but for the raw emotional truth it conveys. The arrangement is simple, allowing Streisand and Diamond’s vocals to take center stage. The lyrics tell the story of two people who have drifted apart—not through betrayal or conflict, but through silence and neglect. Lines like “You don’t sing me love songs, you don’t bring me flowers anymore” cut deep because they reflect a reality many have faced: the slow erosion of intimacy. Streisand’s delivery is restrained but filled with heartbreak, while Diamond’s gravelly tone adds a contrasting depth. Together, they create a conversation that feels so real, it’s almost uncomfortable to listen to—but in the best way. The song topped the charts and resonated across generations, becoming an anthem for unspoken sorrow in long-term love. It remains one of Streisand’s most affecting performances, reminding listeners that sometimes the most painful breakups are the ones where no words are spoken—just gestures that have ceased.
7. Guilty (1980)
“Guilty” is a stylish and sultry duet between Barbra Streisand and Barry Gibb that blends pop, disco, and soft rock into a smooth and irresistible groove. Released in 1980 as the title track of Streisand’s album Guilty, the song marked a striking shift in her musical direction. With Gibb’s signature falsetto and Streisand’s sultry vocals, the chemistry between the two is undeniable. The lyrics are playful yet suggestive, filled with flirtation and emotional tension: “I never had a doubt in my mind / We were meant to be.” There’s a bold confidence in the way they trade lines, as if they’re sharing a secret only they understand. The production, guided by the Bee Gees’ unmistakable flair, gives the song a modern (for its time) pop polish while keeping the emotional core intact. It became a major international hit, cementing the collaboration as one of the most successful in pop history. “Guilty” showcases Streisand’s versatility and willingness to explore new musical landscapes without sacrificing her signature vocal precision. It remains a fan favorite and a testament to the power of well-matched musical partnerships.
8. Memory (1981)
Barbra Streisand’s 1981 interpretation of “Memory” from Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cats is one of the most powerful versions of the already iconic ballad. Although she did not appear in the musical itself, her studio recording brought the song to a much wider audience. Streisand’s voice is perfectly suited to the song’s aching sense of longing and nostalgia. She brings a sense of quiet restraint that gradually builds into soaring emotion, allowing each phrase to breathe and resonate. The song’s lyrics—“Touch me, it’s so easy to leave me”—are steeped in sorrow, and Streisand channels this sadness with haunting beauty. The arrangement complements her performance with sweeping orchestration that rises and falls like waves of memory. “Memory” is about reflection and the passage of time, themes Streisand conveys with elegance and grace. Her version doesn’t just replicate the Broadway hit—it reinterprets it, turning it into something deeply personal and universally touching. For many fans, her rendition remains definitive, a standout even among countless other covers. It’s a haunting, emotional performance that lingers long after the final note fades.
9. Papa, Can You Hear Me? (1983)
“Papa, Can You Hear Me?” is a stirring and deeply spiritual ballad from the 1983 film Yentl, which Barbra Streisand directed, co-wrote, and starred in. This haunting song expresses the inner prayers and longings of the film’s central character as she seeks guidance, connection, and understanding in a world where she must hide her true self. Streisand’s performance is marked by emotional vulnerability and quiet strength. Her voice moves with reverence through the verses, each word drenched in longing. The orchestration is lush but gentle, creating a sacred, almost prayerful atmosphere. The lyrics—“Papa, can you hear me? / Papa, can you see me?”—evoke not just a plea to a father, but also to God, or any higher power who might be listening. The song resonates deeply with themes of identity, faith, and the desire to be seen and heard. “Papa, Can You Hear Me?” has since become one of Streisand’s most spiritually moving pieces, often associated with moments of reflection and personal growth. It remains a testament to her storytelling ability—not just as a singer, but as an artist who can convey layers of meaning through every phrase.
10. Somewhere (1985)
Barbra Streisand’s 1985 version of “Somewhere” from West Side Story is a soaring, symphonic interpretation of one of Broadway’s most beloved anthems of hope. With her signature vocal precision and emotional depth, Streisand transforms this already powerful song into something even more profound. The lyrics—“There’s a place for us”—are simple but filled with longing, and she sings them with an aching sincerity that speaks to anyone who’s ever yearned for a better, more peaceful world. The arrangement begins softly, almost like a whisper, before building into a cinematic crescendo that surrounds her voice like a halo. Her delivery is neither theatrical nor restrained; instead, it strikes a perfect balance between classical elegance and heartfelt yearning. Released during a time of social and political tension, Streisand’s version gave the song renewed relevance, turning it into a quiet anthem of unity, justice, and love. It has since become a cornerstone of her repertoire, often performed at concerts and special events. “Somewhere” reminds us of Streisand’s unique ability to breathe new life into well-known songs, making them feel deeply personal and timeless all over again.
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.
