10 Best Barbra Streisand Songs of All Time
A powerful profession of love set to strings, “Woman in Love” reflects the intensity and vulnerability of romance. Streisand showcases her dazzling vocal range and emotional depth in this soulful performance.
Streisand’s impeccable phrasing and breath control create a sense of optimism that will captivate audiences. Her rendition of this Broadway classic is a regular feature in her live shows. To explore her entire collection, you can easily find it on Mp3 Juice.
1. “Tennessee Whiskey”
The soaring ballad from the movie Yentl proved Streisand’s ability to connect with audiences worldwide. Its haunting melody and Streisand’s emotive delivery have captivated fans for generations.
It seemed like every artist was obligated to lay down a disco track in the ’70s, but Streisand managed to do so with style. Her booty-shaking duet with Donna Summer helped to propel the movie into a successful run. This song showcases her dazzling vocal prowess and one-of-a-kind spirit. The enthralling tune has become one of her most beloved recordings.
2. “It Had To Be You”
Streisand was a Broadway phenom, stealing the show with her inimitable vocals as Fanny Brice in the musical “Funny Girl.” She went on to dominate the silver screen and the record charts.
Jim Steinman’s bombastic power ballads fell out of fashion in the ’80s, but when Streisand sings one, you listen. Here, she brings a freshness and intensity to the song that makes it her own.
A regular feature of her concert tours, this melancholy ballad is about remembrance. A collaboration with composer Marvin Hamlisch, the track topped both the pop and Oscar charts.
3. “The Way We Were”
Streisand and Donna Summer’s powerful collaboration on this 1979 hit remains a classic in music history. With the emotional lyrics and beautiful melody, it evokes the deep love and lasting commitment of a lifelong partnership.
This Richard Perry-produced song is a departure from the more contemporary styles that would define Streisand’s later career. But it showcases her incredible vocal talents, which still impress today. It’s a must-listen for Streisand fans and anyone who appreciates power ballads. This song is about overcoming obstacles and starting fresh. It’s an unforgettable song that celebrates new beginnings.
4. “Happy Days Are Here Again”
One of Streisand’s first number one hits, this classic showcases her vocal range and emotion. Her phrasing and personal investment in the lyrics makes this one of her best performances.
This wistful song is the perfect example of why Streisand has been considered an icon for decades. Streisand nailed this classic torch song, which features a touching story about love and loss. This is a must-listen for all fans of Barbra Streisand. Her soaring vocals capture the hope and yearning in this timeless hit.
5. “Evergreen (Love Theme from A Star Is Born)”
A big hit from Streisand’s album with Barry Gibb, this romantic ballad is a testament to her emotional range and power. Its melancholy lyrics speak of loss and the enduring quality of love.
Laura Nyro wrote this jazzy little ditty in 1968, but it really got a hold on the charts when Streisand recorded it for her 1970 album. Streisand’s delicate and emotive vocals give the song depth that other artists could not replicate.
This is one of Streisand’s best movie songs, and it earned her and lyricist Paul Williams an Academy Award nomination.
6. “It’s Too Late”
Barbra Streisand has a career that stretches back decades, with two Academy Awards, ten Grammys, and more than 150 million albums sold. She is a living legend of music and one of the most beloved artists in the world.
This version of the classic Stephen Sondheim song captures the hope and yearning in its lyrics. She sings with a delicate and emotive voice, and the lush orchestral arrangement adds to its impact. It was the perfect song to highlight Streisand’s return to musical theater.
7. “Tennessee Whiskey”
The lyrics and melody to this iconic duet touch listeners with their vulnerability. What’s more, Streisand’s vocal technique and control add a level of complexity that elevates this song.
This Linda Thompson-composed single shows that Streisand was more than a second-string Dusty Springfield. She demonstrates that she could breathe life into moldy standards, and even outperform her vocal powerhouse partner Celine Dion.
This Jule Styne and Bob Merrill classic from Funny Girl proved that she was more than a one-trick pony, as this record proved to be her first hit on the charts.
8. “The Way We Were”
A cover of this jazzy little ditty gave Streisand her first major hit. It was originally written for Peggy Lipton, but it helped her prove that she was not only a movie star, but also a solid chart performer.
She adds her own touch to this moldy standard, delivering it with unique phrasing and clear personal investment. It’s a great demonstration of the power of her voice, and her ability to connect with audiences. It was a hit that made her one of the best-selling artists of all time.
9. “Evergreen (Love Theme from A Star Is Born)”
Written for the 1976 film that Streisand starred in, this classic ballad of love and nostalgia earned her an Academy Award for Best Original Song. Her emotive vocals and the song’s timeless melody make it one of her most beloved hits.
Although she could have sounded badass on a gospel-funk track or blasters like the Muscle Shoals rhythm section, it’s clear that Streisand knows what she is good at, and she sticks to it. And it pays off. Big time. This is what makes her a legend.
10. “It Had To Be You”
Streisand’s 2014 single, off her LP Partners, hits some familiar vocal ground. Although she made some strides into pop/rock during the ’70s, at this point she seemed to be hitting that Sinatra stage, where a great entertainer simply trots out old standards and coasts on her reputation.
This song explores the concept of fate and destiny, arguing that sometimes, against all odds, two souls are destined to meet each other. It is a deeply romantic piece that has earned the respect of both fans and casual listeners alike.
