About the song
For those of us who grew up listening to the velvety tones of Barbra Streisand, her name is synonymous with elegance, power, and unparalleled vocal ability. Her rendition of “Somewhere,” originally a beloved number from the iconic musical West Side Story, is a testament to her enduring artistry. Released in 1985 as part of her Grammy Award-winning album, The Broadway Album, this version of “Somewhere” showcased Streisand’s ability to breathe new life into a classic.
What makes Streisand’s interpretation of “Somewhere” so special? It’s a blend of nostalgia and modernity. The song’s original message of yearning for a better world is given a fresh perspective through Streisand’s powerful vocals and the album’s contemporary production. The arrangement, which won a Grammy Award for Best Instrumental Arrangement Accompanying Vocal(s), is a perfect balance of lush strings and subtle percussion, creating a rich and evocative soundscape.
While the single may have narrowly missed the top 40 on the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at number 43, it resonated deeply with adult contemporary listeners, reaching number five on the Adult Contemporary chart. This suggests that Streisand’s more mature audience appreciated the nuanced emotional depth she brought to the song.
The enduring appeal of “Somewhere in 1985” is evident in its continued presence in popular culture. In 2011, a captivating duet was created using footage of Streisand’s performance alongside the young soprano Jackie Evancho. This unique pairing showcased the timeless quality of the song and introduced it to a new generation of listeners. Furthermore, Streisand revisited the song in 2014, recording a beautiful duet with Josh Groban for her Partners album.
“Somewhere in 1985” is more than just a song; it’s a journey. It’s a journey through time, a reflection on the human experience, and a testament to the enduring power of music. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Barbra Streisand or discovering her music for the first time, “Somewhere” is a timeless classic that will continue to move and inspire listeners for years to come.
Video
Lyrics
This sub…
This next song is… ah
It’s from the musical Westside Story
Set in the 1950s based on Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, right
And that was about the Montagues and the Capulets
Feuding families that ended up losing both their children
And it shows you that no matter what error, hate accomplishes nothing
I recently heard, erm, Archbishop Desmond Tutu
At the Clinton Global Initiative in New York
And he said, “God created us different to know our need for one another”
So, tonight, let’s think of the song as a
Kind of prayer for tolerance, compassion, and peace