Barbra Streisand is a name synonymous with musical excellence and emotional depth. With a career spanning over six decades, she has captivated audiences around the world with her powerful voice and unforgettable performances. From Broadway to Hollywood, her artistry transcends genres, making her one of the most influential singers of our time. In this article, we dive into the top 10 most popular Barbra Streisand songs, each a testament to her unparalleled talent and ability to connect with listeners on a profound level.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to her music, these iconic tracks showcase her versatility, ranging from heart-wrenching ballads to upbeat anthems. With hits that have defined generations, Barbra’s songs are more than just melodies; they are emotional journeys that resonate with love, loss, and everything in between. Join us as we explore the timeless magic of Barbra Streisand, celebrating the songs that have solidified her status as a legend in the music industry. Prepare to be enchanted by the beauty and brilliance of her most beloved tracks!
1. “The Way We Were” (1973)
“The Way We Were” is one of Barbra Streisand’s most emotionally resonant and iconic ballads, steeped in nostalgia and heartbreak. Released in 1973 as the theme song for the film of the same name, the track beautifully explores the bittersweet nature of past love—those tender memories that linger even after the relationship has faded. With a melody that gently tugs at the heartstrings, Streisand’s flawless vocal performance captures the vulnerability and longing in every line. Her interpretation turns the song into a deeply personal reflection on love lost and the people we used to be. The arrangement is elegant and understated, allowing the lyrics and Barbra’s expressive voice to take center stage. “The Way We Were” earned Streisand an Academy Award for Best Original Song and has since become one of her most beloved classics. It’s the kind of song that stays with you, evoking feelings of wistfulness and romantic melancholy long after it ends. Whether you’ve experienced a similar love or simply appreciate its emotional truth, this ballad remains timeless, a gentle reminder of how powerful memory can be.
2. “Evergreen” (1976)
“Evergreen” is a gentle, romantic ballad that perfectly captures the warmth and wonder of enduring love. Written for the 1976 remake of A Star Is Born, the song was co-written by Barbra Streisand herself, showcasing not only her vocal artistry but her songwriting talent as well. With its soft, flowing melody and lush orchestration, “Evergreen” unfolds like a tender confession, celebrating a love that remains constant through the seasons of life. Streisand’s performance is rich with emotion, yet delivered with a softness that feels intimate and sincere. The lyrics speak of a love that grows deeper with time—never fading, always blooming anew. The song went on to win the Academy Award for Best Original Song and a Grammy for Song of the Year, cementing its place in pop culture and in the hearts of listeners worldwide. Often chosen for weddings and romantic milestones, “Evergreen” has become synonymous with timeless devotion. It remains one of Streisand’s signature songs, a shining example of her ability to convey profound emotion with effortless grace.
3. “Woman in Love” (1980)
“Woman in Love” is a sweeping, passionate anthem that captures the intensity of devotion and emotional vulnerability. Released in 1980 as part of her Guilty album, the song was written by Barry and Robin Gibb of the Bee Gees, giving it a distinctly lush, dramatic sound. Streisand’s powerful vocals soar over the dramatic instrumentation, delivering each lyric with conviction and poise. The song portrays a woman deeply in love, willing to defy the odds and embrace the emotional risks that come with true connection. It’s both a declaration and a plea—bold, heartfelt, and unflinching. The chorus is instantly memorable, and Streisand’s emotional range is on full display, navigating from soft vulnerability to commanding strength. “Woman in Love” became one of Barbra’s biggest commercial successes, topping charts around the world and earning her a new generation of fans. More than four decades later, it remains an anthem for anyone who has experienced the highs and lows of being truly, deeply in love. It’s a track that reminds us that love, though complicated and sometimes painful, is always worth fighting for.
4. “Memory” (1981)
“Memory” is a haunting, theatrical ballad originally from Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cats, and Barbra Streisand’s rendition elevates it to a whole new emotional level. Though she was never in the musical itself, her interpretation has become one of the most revered versions of the song. With a voice both commanding and tender, Streisand captures the aching beauty of reminiscing on a life once filled with light, now dimmed by time and regret. The lyrics reflect the thoughts of someone looking back on their past, clinging to moments that made them feel alive. The melody rises and falls like a tide of emotion, and Barbra’s dynamic range gives the song a profound emotional arc. Her version conveys both quiet yearning and powerful sorrow, resonating with listeners who’ve faced the passage of time and the loss it can bring. The orchestration adds depth without overshadowing her voice, making each note resonate with gravity. “Memory” isn’t just a performance—it’s an experience, a journey through the soul of a character searching for meaning and belonging. Streisand’s version is timeless, echoing long after the final note fades.
5. “People” (1964)
“People” is one of Barbra Streisand’s most enduring classics, a heartfelt ballad that helped launch her into superstardom. First introduced in the Broadway musical Funny Girl, the song speaks to a simple yet profound truth: people need each other. Streisand’s interpretation is rich with vulnerability and sincerity, allowing the lyrics to unfold naturally with emotional clarity. The arrangement is elegant and restrained, giving her voice the space to shine and letting the message sink in. It’s not just a love song—it’s a meditation on the human condition, reminding us that connection and companionship are at the heart of what makes life meaningful. Barbra’s delivery balances power and softness, giving the song both emotional strength and tenderness. “People” became one of her signature songs, earning her critical acclaim and solidifying her as a vocal powerhouse. It’s a track that continues to move audiences decades after its release, proving that sometimes the most universal messages are also the most personal. With its timeless melody and resonant lyrics, “People” remains a beautiful reminder of the love and empathy that bind us all.
6. “Don’t Let Me Be Lonely Tonight” (1973)
“Don’t Let Me Be Lonely Tonight” is a tender, introspective ballad that showcases Barbra Streisand’s ability to convey raw vulnerability through her voice. Originally written by James Taylor, Streisand’s rendition brings a new emotional depth to the song, transforming it into a soulful plea for connection and comfort. The lyrics speak of uncertainty in love, of wanting closeness despite the fear of being let down again. There’s a quiet desperation in her delivery, as if each note is holding on to hope while preparing for heartbreak. The soft, jazz-inflected arrangement, with its gentle guitar and minimal instrumentation, creates an intimate atmosphere—like a late-night confession whispered in the dark. Streisand doesn’t over-sing here; instead, she allows every line to breathe, giving the listener space to feel the ache within the lyrics. It’s this restraint, this emotional honesty, that makes her version stand out. “Don’t Let Me Be Lonely Tonight” captures the all-too-human desire to not face the night alone, and Streisand’s interpretation makes it feel like she’s speaking directly to you. It’s a quiet gem in her vast catalog that lingers long after the final note fades.
7. “Somewhere” (1985)
Barbra Streisand’s rendition of “Somewhere” from West Side Story is nothing short of breathtaking. More than just a cover, her version elevates this Broadway classic into a powerful, cinematic ballad filled with yearning and hope. With its lush orchestration and her emotionally charged vocals, Streisand transforms the song into a dream of a better place—somewhere beyond pain, beyond conflict, beyond heartache. Her voice glides effortlessly across the sweeping arrangement, carrying the weight of every word with poise and passion. The longing in her tone is palpable, evoking a deep sense of desire for peace and understanding, not just between lovers, but in the world at large. The song builds gradually, moving from quiet introspection to a stirring crescendo that showcases Streisand’s incredible vocal control and emotional depth. “Somewhere” resonates as both a personal and universal anthem, capturing the longing so many people feel for a safe place where love can thrive. It’s a standout moment in her discography, reminding us of the timeless power of hope and the strength it takes to believe in a better tomorrow. Streisand’s version remains definitive—a heartfelt plea wrapped in pure vocal elegance.
8. “No More Tears (Enough Is Enough)” (1979)
“No More Tears (Enough Is Enough)” is an exhilarating disco duet between Barbra Streisand and Donna Summer that bursts with energy, empowerment, and vocal fireworks. Released at the height of the disco era, this 1979 hit blends powerful vocals with a pulsing dance beat, creating a song that’s both fun and fiercely liberating. It starts slow, almost like a ballad, before launching into a fiery declaration of independence. The lyrics tell the story of a woman who’s had enough of a toxic relationship and is ready to reclaim her life. Streisand and Summer trade verses and harmonize with passion and precision, their voices blending beautifully while also showcasing their individual strengths. The synergy between the two divas is electric—they sound like they’re not just singing the words, but living them. The disco production, complete with strings, bass, and infectious rhythm, makes it irresistible on the dance floor, while the message remains strikingly relevant. “No More Tears” is more than a breakup anthem; it’s a celebration of strength and self-worth. This unforgettable collaboration remains a fan favorite and a bold testament to female empowerment in music.
9. “Happy Days Are Here Again” (1963)
“Happy Days Are Here Again” is a joyful anthem of hope, and Barbra Streisand’s version infuses it with new emotional resonance. Originally a cheerful Depression-era tune, Streisand gave it a slower, more introspective twist when she first performed it in the early 1960s, and it has since become one of her signature pieces. Her interpretation starts with a quiet, almost melancholic tone, which gradually blossoms into a powerful declaration of optimism. This contrast brings a fresh poignancy to the song, reminding listeners that joy often comes after struggle. The arrangement is simple, allowing Barbra’s voice to take center stage and deliver the uplifting lyrics with sincerity and soul. It’s the kind of performance that can stir both tears and smiles, capturing the duality of joy hard-won after sorrow. Over the years, Streisand has performed this song in various settings, and it remains a fan favorite for its emotional depth and timeless message. Whether used to mark a new beginning or celebrate a triumph, “Happy Days Are Here Again” continues to inspire, proving that even in the darkest times, happiness can return—and often does.
10. “Guilty” (1980)
“Guilty” is a sensual, slow-burning duet between Barbra Streisand and Barry Gibb that radiates romance and sophistication. Released in 1980 as the title track of her Guilty album, the song showcases the perfect blend of Streisand’s rich vocal tone and Gibb’s smooth, falsetto harmonies. With its laid-back rhythm, shimmering instrumentation, and seductive melody, “Guilty” tells the story of a love so deep, it defies judgment and convention. The chemistry between Barbra and Barry is palpable—they don’t just sing together; they interact, creating a conversational back-and-forth that draws listeners in. The lyrics explore themes of forbidden love, vulnerability, and passion, delivered with a level of class that few duets ever achieve. It’s not just a romantic song; it’s a moment frozen in time—intimate, moody, and elegant. The song’s success helped the album become one of Barbra’s best-selling projects, and “Guilty” remains a staple in soft rock playlists and romantic compilations. It’s a masterclass in musical storytelling, proving that when two great voices come together with the right song, the result can be pure magic.
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.
