Barbra Streisand, an unparalleled icon in the music and film industries, has captivated audiences for decades with her powerful voice and emotive performances. From her humble beginnings in Brooklyn to becoming a global superstar, Streisand’s impact on pop culture is undeniable. With a career spanning over six decades, she has not only broken records but also shattered glass ceilings, earning accolades that include two Academy Awards, ten Grammy Awards, and a legion of devoted fans.
In this article, we dive into the top 10 most popular Barbra Streisand songs of all time, a journey through her most iconic hits that have resonated with generations. Each track showcases her incredible vocal range, emotional depth, and ability to connect with listeners on a profound level. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to her music, these songs represent the essence of Streisand’s artistry—timeless, powerful, and unforgettable. Get ready to relive the magic as we explore the melodies that have defined a legend and continue to inspire millions around the world.
1. “The Way We Were” (1973)
“The Way We Were” remains one of Barbra Streisand’s most cherished and emotionally powerful songs. Released in 1973 as the title track for the film The Way We Were, it tells a story of love lost, laced with nostalgia and longing. Barbra’s voice, rich with vulnerability and strength, captures the delicate tension between sweet memories and painful farewells. The orchestration gently supports her vocals, allowing every lyric to shine through with clarity and emotion. Lines like “Memories may be beautiful and yet…” tug at the heart, reflecting a universal truth about relationships that drift apart but never quite leave us. The song earned Barbra an Academy Award for Best Original Song, solidifying its place in both cinematic and musical history. More than just a ballad, it’s a heartfelt reflection on the past—on the love that shaped us and the memories that linger. Even decades later, the song continues to resonate with listeners of all generations, becoming a timeless expression of bittersweet remembrance. Barbra’s live renditions often bring audiences to tears, proving how deeply this song continues to connect with hearts around the world.
2. “Evergreen (Love Theme from A Star is Born)” (1976)
“Evergreen,” the love theme from the 1976 remake of A Star is Born, is a tender declaration of enduring affection. Written by Barbra Streisand and Paul Williams, the song beautifully captures the innocence and strength of lasting love. Barbra’s vocal delivery is graceful and deeply moving, her tone effortlessly floating over the gentle orchestration of strings and soft piano. “Love soft as an easy chair…” opens the song with one of the most memorable lines in romantic music history. There’s an understated elegance in how the melody unfolds, reflecting the quiet confidence of a love that is both resilient and comforting. The song won an Oscar for Best Original Song and quickly became a wedding favorite, often chosen by couples to express their heartfelt commitment. More than just a film ballad, “Evergreen” stands as a shining example of Barbra’s songwriting ability and emotional range. Its timeless charm, combined with her subtle, nuanced interpretation, allows the song to live on not just as a soundtrack hit, but as a universal hymn to love that endures through time and change.
3. “Don’t Let Me Be Lonely Tonight” (1973)
Barbra Streisand’s version of “Don’t Let Me Be Lonely Tonight,” originally written and recorded by James Taylor, brings a fresh and emotionally resonant perspective to the song. Her 1973 rendition is steeped in quiet vulnerability and honest yearning. With her signature blend of strength and sensitivity, Barbra turns this plea for connection into a deeply personal moment. The smooth arrangement of gentle guitar strums and subtle strings gives the track a warm, intimate atmosphere. Every line is delivered with care, making the listener feel as though they are eavesdropping on a late-night confession. “Say goodbye and say hello… sure enough, good to go,” becomes a quiet surrender to loneliness, wrapped in the hope that maybe, just for one night, someone will stay. Streisand’s interpretation elevates the song from soft rock to an expressive ballad, full of nuanced emotion. It’s a standout in her catalog not for vocal acrobatics, but for its quiet honesty and soulful storytelling. With this track, she reminds us that even in moments of solitude, there is beauty in the longing—and courage in reaching out for love.
4. “People” (1964)
“People” is more than just a song—it’s a defining moment in Barbra Streisand’s career and in the world of Broadway. Originally from the 1964 musical Funny Girl, where Barbra played the iconic role of Fanny Brice, the song quickly transcended the stage to become a universal anthem. With her poignant phrasing and emotional clarity, Barbra delivers the powerful message that “people who need people are the luckiest people in the world.” What might seem like a simple sentiment becomes profound in her voice. The song builds gradually, beginning with a sense of quiet reflection and blossoming into an emotional crescendo that showcases her impeccable vocal control and sincerity. Her ability to convey both vulnerability and resilience in the same breath is what makes this track unforgettable. Beyond its theatrical roots, “People” has become one of Barbra’s signature songs—one she returns to again and again in live performances. Its universal theme of love, connection, and the longing to be understood continues to resonate deeply with audiences. It’s a timeless piece that captures the heart of what it means to be human, delivered by one of the greatest interpreters of emotion in music history.
5. “Guilty” (1980)
The 1980 duet “Guilty” brought together two music powerhouses—Barbra Streisand and Bee Gees’ frontman Barry Gibb—for a sultry, stylish exploration of romantic tension. Serving as the title track of their collaborative album, the song marked a shift in Barbra’s sound, blending pop and soft rock with a dose of disco-era sophistication. Their vocal chemistry is electric. Barry’s falsetto and Barbra’s powerhouse vocals intertwine effortlessly, giving life to lyrics that explore forbidden love and mutual desire. “Guilty” isn’t about regret—it’s about giving in, unapologetically, to the intensity of connection. The song pulses with sensual energy, but it also carries an undercurrent of vulnerability, making it more than just a flashy duet. It reached the top of the charts and became a signature hit for both artists. The success of this collaboration introduced Barbra to a broader pop audience and showcased her versatility beyond ballads and Broadway tunes. “Guilty” remains a fan favorite because of its mood, melody, and magnetic vocal interplay. It’s a track that feels as fresh and passionate today as it did when it first hit the airwaves, proving Barbra’s ability to evolve without ever losing her authenticity.
6. “Somewhere” (1985)
Barbra Streisand’s 1985 rendition of “Somewhere,” originally from the musical West Side Story, is a stunning and emotionally rich interpretation of a classic. The song is a plea for a place of peace and belonging—“somewhere” where love can thrive away from the world’s chaos. Barbra’s vocal performance is gentle yet powerful, balancing vulnerability and hope with masterful control. Her voice seems to float over the orchestration, delivering each line with sincerity and grace. The arrangement builds gradually, enveloping the listener in a lush soundscape that matches the emotional weight of the lyrics. What makes Barbra’s version so moving is her ability to channel a deep yearning—not just for love, but for justice, acceptance, and a better tomorrow. It became one of her most celebrated covers, highlighting her unmatched interpretive skill. Even without the context of the musical, her performance resonates universally, offering a message of hope and resilience. “Somewhere” remains a standout in her career, a reminder of how music can speak to the soul and inspire dreams of a brighter, more loving world.
7. “No More Tears (Enough is Enough)” (1979)
Released in 1979, “No More Tears (Enough is Enough)” is a powerhouse duet between Barbra Streisand and disco queen Donna Summer. The song begins slowly, with an emotional ballad feel, as Barbra and Donna express heartbreak and frustration. But as the track progresses, it explodes into a driving disco anthem, full of energy, determination, and female empowerment. Their vocals are electric together—Barbra’s precise, theatrical delivery blends seamlessly with Donna’s soulful, dynamic power. Lyrically, the song is a bold declaration of independence: a woman drawing the line in a toxic relationship and choosing freedom over pain. Its transition from sorrow to strength mirrors the emotional arc of moving on, which is why it continues to resonate with listeners decades later. It became a major hit on both pop and dance charts and remains a staple in empowerment playlists and dance clubs alike. The song’s infectious rhythm and fearless message, coupled with two iconic vocalists at the top of their game, make “No More Tears” more than just a breakup song—it’s a celebration of reclaiming one’s voice and worth.
8. “The Way We Were” (1973)
Barbra Streisand’s “The Way We Were” is a song so iconic, it’s listed twice in some best-of lists—and for good reason. First released in 1973 as the theme for the romantic drama of the same name, this ballad is the very embodiment of nostalgia. It speaks to the heartache of remembering love that couldn’t last, despite its beauty. Barbra’s performance is nothing short of mesmerizing. Her voice moves delicately over the soft piano introduction and then soars as the song builds, evoking a profound sense of melancholy. The lyrics—“Memories light the corners of my mind…”—have become universally recognized, touching anyone who has ever looked back on love with fondness and sorrow. The orchestration is subtle, allowing Barbra’s vocals to shine and the emotions to take center stage. The song earned her both commercial success and critical acclaim, including an Academy Award for Best Original Song. “The Way We Were” remains one of Streisand’s definitive tracks, a perfect example of how she can take a story and make it feel deeply personal, turning it into a timeless classic that resonates through generations.
9. “My Heart Belongs to Me” (1977)
Released in 1977, “My Heart Belongs to Me” is a poignant ballad that highlights Barbra Streisand’s strength in interpreting themes of love and independence. Originally intended for The Alan Parsons Project, the song found its true voice in Barbra, who transformed it into a deeply personal anthem. With a gentle but confident vocal delivery, Barbra expresses a woman’s realization that love doesn’t require losing oneself. The song’s message is empowering—choosing to guard your heart, not out of fear, but out of self-worth. The soft piano and string arrangements provide a perfect backdrop, allowing Barbra’s voice to carry the emotional weight of the lyrics. There’s a quiet strength in the way she sings, reflecting a maturity and self-awareness that speaks to many listeners navigating the complexities of relationships. “My Heart Belongs to Me” became a commercial success, reaching the Top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100. It’s a track that showcases Barbra’s gift for delivering emotionally charged performances with subtlety and grace, turning a simple melody into a deeply resonant statement of identity and self-love.
10. “Love Theme from *A Star is Born*” (1976)
The “Love Theme from A Star is Born,” also known as “Evergreen,” is one of Barbra Streisand’s most celebrated and enduring ballads. Released in 1976 alongside the film in which she starred opposite Kris Kristofferson, the song beautifully encapsulates the highs and lows of romantic love. Barbra co-wrote the melody with Paul Williams, and her involvement in its creation only deepens the emotional impact. With its signature lyric—“Love, soft as an easy chair”—the song exudes tenderness and timelessness. Barbra’s vocal performance is restrained yet incredibly expressive, capturing the vulnerability and trust that come with lasting love. The orchestration is elegant and warm, supporting her voice without overwhelming it. “Evergreen” won the Academy Award for Best Original Song and a Grammy for Song of the Year, solidifying its place in pop culture history. It became a favorite at weddings and romantic occasions and remains one of the most beloved songs in her discography. The track showcases Barbra’s unmatched ability to turn a love story into a soul-stirring musical experience that continues to resonate decades later.
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.
