Here's the latest news on Barbra Streisand ....
BARNES & NOBLE BOOKPLATE
A Barbra buddy sent me a photo of the signed bookplate on the inside of Barbra's memoir. Fans who purchased this option for the Barnes & Noble virtual interview with Barbra started receiving this in the mail this week. They sold out (unfortunately, many are appearing on eBay for hundreds of dollars!) and Barbra decided to sign 500 more so REAL fans could have a chance to receive these.
BARBRA HONORED WITH SAG LIFE ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
According to the Los Angeles Times, Barbra Streisand will be presented "SAG-AFTRA’s highest tribute ... the SAG Life Achievement Award, given for career achievements and humanitarian accomplishments. The 81-year-old multi-hyphenate legend will receive the honor at the 30th annual Screen Actors Guild Awards on Feb. 24 in a ceremony that will stream live on Netflix for the first time." (It streams at 8:00 pm EST).
Barbra's statement about the award: “Ever since I was a young girl sitting in the Loew’s Kings Theatre in Brooklyn, I dreamed of being one of those actresses I saw on the screen,” Streisand said in a statement. “The movies were a portal to a world I could only imagine. Even though I was an unlikely candidate, somehow my dream came true. This award is especially meaningful to me because it comes from my fellow actors, whom I so admire.”
Screen Actors Guild president, Fran Drescher, said in a statement: “Her enduring career is a testament to her genuine performances, connecting with audiences on a profound level. She is a colossal icon with a relentless work ethic, evolving with each stage of her remarkable journey.”
"CRITICAL BARBRA" GERMAN EVENT
“Critical Barbra,” a three-day (Dec. 14-16) event at the German Film Museum, the Jewish Museum in Frankfurt and Goethe University, celebrates the many facets of Streisand’s unique talent with film screenings, talks and performances.
BARBRA JOINS INTERNATIONAL HOLOCAUST SURVIVORS NIGHT
Just like last year, Streisand contributed an audio comment to participate in this streaming event from December 11th.
You can see Streisand's comments around 13 minutes here at the Claims Conference website.
RYAN O‘NEAL HAS DIED
Ryan‘s son posted on Instagram today that his father had died. O‘Neal was diagnosed with chronic leukemia in 2001 and with prostate cancer in 2012. He was 82 years old.
Ryan‘s filmography is so impressive: Love Story, Paper Moon (with his daughter, Tatum), Barry Lyndon (with the master Stanley Kubrick), Nickelodeon, and later in Irreconcilable Differences.
With Streisand he made two film comedies: What‘s Up, Doc? and The Main Event.
Barbra posted on social media: “So sad to hear the news of Ryan O’Neal’s passing. ❤️ We made two films together, What’s Up, Doc? and The Main Event. He was funny and charming, and he will be remembered.”
BARBRA HONORS BARRY
On December 3rd, Barry Gibb (of the Bee Gees) was one of five honorees at this year's Kennedy Center Honors. Barbra Streisand sent a video to congratulate Gibb.
CBS and Paramount+ will air the 46th annual ceremony on Wednesday, December 27.
PRESS UPDATE
Barbra has recorded interviews to promote her Nov. 7th memoir, My Name is Barbra. Here's the list of all she did:
Print Interviews [Online]
Vanity Fair November 2023 (cover story)
Online Interviews (week of December 4th, 2023):
VIRTUAL DISCUSSION W/ B&N
Join Barnes & Noble as they welcome New York Times bestselling author Barbra Streisand, for a live, virtual discussion of MY NAME IS BARBRA, the long-awaited memoir by the superstar of stage, screen, recordings, and television.
Barbra will be in conversation with a special guest, to be announced!
This is a live, ticketed event. You must have a ticket to gain access. It is a Zoom webinar. Access to the event will become available on the evening of the event, Tuesday, December 5, at 8 PM ET / 7 PM CT /6 PM MT / 5 PM PT.
The Zoom-only access to this is $58.78 and can be purchased via Eventbrite. HERE IS THE LINK.
There were a VERY LIMITED amount of tickets that included a book with signed bookplate. THESE HAVE SOLD OUT.
ICONIC STREISAND FOR AUCTION DECEMBER
Some of Barbra's most amazing items are being auctioned on December 17th as part of Julien's Auctions' GLAMOUR, GRACE, & GREATNESS: CLASSIC HOLLYWOOD AUCTION.
Included in the auction is Barbra's 1965 sailor dress from her TV show, My Name is Barbra (pictured).
Check Julien's Live to see all the amazing costumes, garments and memorabilia.
STREISAND TAKES COLBERT QUESTIONERT
This week, before Stephen Colbert's appendix ruptured, he was going to air another segment of his interview with Barbra in which she would take The Colbert Questionert. His shows have been canceled for this week, but, presumedly, the Streisand segment will air next week ... Stay tuned!
THE WAY WE WERE — NEXT WEEK!
On October 17th, Sony will release the 4K 50th Anniversary version of The Way We Were. It will include two cuts of the film — The original theatrical release, and the new version in which Streisand has incorporated some of the essential scenes she feels would have made the movie's ending make more sense.
Also on the disc:
For digital fans, Barbra stated in her Vanity Fair book excerpt that she convinced Sony to release both versions on iTunes and similar services!
For fans of discs and home video, you can pre-order it here at Amazon.
STREISAND MEMOIR IS A VANITY FAIR COVER, INTERVIEW, EXCERPT
Barbra is a cover girl! She appears on the cover of Vanity Fair’s November 2023 issue (due out Nov. 17th).
Inside is an interview with her (conducted by Radhika Jones), lots of pictures, and an excerpt from her book, My Name is Barbra, in which she details the cut scenes she has restored for the forthcoming 50th Anniversary Blu-ray of The Way We Were (yes! She fought for both versions of the film to be included on iTunes digital purchases).
Vanity Fair features a couple of gorgeous photos by the master Richard Avedon, taken of Barbra in the 1970s with her long hair.
There is also a beautiful color portrait of Streisand by Pari Dukovic from 2018 included with the interview.
Visit Vanity Fair for more ... I'll be buying a digital issue of this one on my iPad when it comes out!
UCLA Barbra Streisand Center — Truth in the Public Sphere
In 2021 Barbra Streisand established funds at University of California Los Angeles in four areas: the Center for Truth in the Public Sphere; the Center for the Impact of Climate Change; the Center for the Dynamics of Intimacy & Power Between Women & Men; and the Center for the Impact of Art on the Culture.
On September 12th, Barbra appeared (in person!) at the UCLA Meyer and Renee Luskin Conference Center. According to UCLA, “the focus of the meeting was a panel discussion about truth in the public sphere” and there were several panelists and speakers. READ MORE ABOUT THEM HERE.
Barbra‘s opening remarks were posted here on her official website.
Barbra also posted
a short video of her traveling to the event, and she looks great! Get ready for more interviews and appearances when her memoir comes out in November.
TWO NEW CDS COMING OCT. 27
Barbra Streisand will release two CDs on October 27th, days before her memoir, My Name is Barbra is published.
Barbra told Vanity Fair: “Evergreens and Yentl both hold a special place in my heart, representing fulfilling and cherished moments in my career. Putting these albums together has been a labor of love, and I'm delighted for fans to experience them in new and exciting ways.”
Evergreens is a collection of tracks chosen by Barbra to celebrate her 60 years with Columbia Records. The collection is sold as 1 CD or 2 LPs on vinyl.
A 2023 remix of the song “Evergreen” appears on it. Executive Producer Jay Landers has recruited Walter Afanasieff to provide producer and performance arranger duties; the most excellent Jochem van Der Saag is back as co-producer & mixing engineer; and the engineer & programmer for this remix is Dmytro Gordon.
Target is selling an exclusive “baby pink” 2-vinyl album version.
There is a very special video being released of the “Evergreen” remix on September 22nd. Look at Barbra’s official site and/or Barbra's official YouTube for that premiere.
Yentl: 40th Anniversary Deluxe Edition is a 2-CD release. Disc one features the original Yentl soundtrack, and disc two features 15 additional tracks, including Barbra's original song demos.
Barnes & Noble is selling an exclusive gold-colored 2-LP album. As far as I can tell, this is the only vinyl version of the Yentl Deluxe Edition being sold ... in the U.S. — it looks like fans in Europe can buy a 2-LP black vinyl set. According to the track list, however, it appears that some of the new bonus tracks are being left off the vinyl.
Evergreens Tracks:
1. I’ll Tell The Man In The Street
2. Bewitched (Bothered And Bewildered)
3. Absent Minded Me
4. The Shadow Of Your Smile
5. Where Or When
6. Ma Première Chanson
7. I Don’t Know Where I Stand
8. I Never Meant To Hurt You
9. Letters That Cross In The Mail
10. Answer Me
11. Tomorrow
12. Can’t Help Lovin’ That Man
13. Two People
14. Some Enchanted Evening
15. I Believe (previously unreleased)
16. Isn’t It A Pity?
17. Moon River
18. Here’s To Life (Orchestra version)
19. The Windmills Of Your Mind
20. Who Can I Turn To (When Nobody Needs Me) w/Anthony Newley
21. Lady Liberty
22. Evergreen (Love Theme from A Star Is Born) (2023)
YENTL 40TH—DISC TWO: THE AUDITION TAPES & MORE
(Tracks 1-9: Barbra Streisand accompanied by Michel Legrand)
1.Where Is It Written? (demo)
2. Papa, Can You Hear Me? (demo)
3. The Way He Makes Me Feel (demo)
4. Several Sins A Day (demo)
5. No Wonder (demo) with Marilyn Bergman
6. Tomorrow Night (demo)
7. Will Someone Ever look At Me This Way? (demo) w/ Michel Legrand
8. The Moon and I (demo)
9. A Piece of Sky (demo)
10. Papa, Can You Hear Me? (studio version)
11. Several Sins A Day (studio version)
12. Where Is It Written? (with Rabbinical chorus)
13. Papa, Can You Hear Me? (single version)
14. This Is One of Those Moments (reprise)
15. End Title (instrumental medley)
THE WAY WE WERE 50TH 4K SPECIAL EDITION
DUE OCTOBER 17, 2023
In close collaboration with Barbra Streisand and in celebration of the 50th anniversary of Sydney Pollack’s classic film, Columbia Pictures presents a new extended version of THE WAY WE WERE — restoring two important scenes where the love story and the political story come together — alongside the original theatrical version.
Special Features:
WE’RE BACK!
To promote the 2nd printing of my book, Barbra Streisand: The Music, my publisher Scott & I recorded a new episode of our YouTube series!! This one is very special because we welcome Barbra's pianist (and conductor on the last tour)! We hope you enjoy ....
We would like to do one or two more videos ... but of course we'd like to have very special guests — which we are working on!
The Barbra Archives YouTube Channel is here
SOMETHINGS’ COMING ... THIS FALL
Barbra's memoir, My Name is Barbra, is a mere three months away! I'm hoping we will get some delicious interviews with her on TV to promote it. Columbia/Legacy will certainly be releasing music CDs to coincide with the book. Lots of somethings are coming!
BARBRA'S AWARD
Barbra Streisand received the prestigious Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg Woman of Leadership award during a private ceremony in Malibu, California on July 1st.
Barbra was presented with the award by Justice Sonia Sotomayor and Dwight D. Opperman Foundation Chair Julie Opperman.
The Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg Woman of Leadership Award is presented annually to women who have distinguished themselves by assuming a leadership role and making a meaningful change in the lives of others.
On Social Media, Barbra posted: “Proud and deeply honored to receive the Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg Woman of Leadership award yesterday, on the day of my 25th wedding anniversary to Jim.”
2ND PRINTING OF MY BOOK
We are BACK IN STOCK with my book (in case you were experiencing delays with Amazon deliveries). You can order it from any book store, or directly from us. FYI, there will NOT be a 3rd printing. We have a few thousand books in stock now for the gift purchasing holidays.
And I thank you so much for all of your comments & feedback & love about my book. I am grateful to "make someone happy" — keep listening to all those deep cuts by Barbra!!
BON SOIR LP VINYL FINALLY OUT
Elusive Disc is finally shipping the vinyl Bon Soir LP. It's a gorgeous package and you can order it here.
STREISAND 2023 STUFF
Well, we all know Barbra's memoir is due in November — and that is MAJOR. I can't wait to read it!
Beyond the book, I've been assisting on some CDs that are coming, too --- more to be revealed from the record label ! Stay tuned for more.
STREISAND ON KING CHARLES
Back in May, Barbra appeared on camera to congratulate King Charles. See the video.
Congratulations to Matt Amato, director of the CRY ME A RIVER (LIVE AT THE BON SOIR) video — it won a Telly Award! [Gold Winner: Craft ... Non-Broadcast]. Barbra is named, too, as Exec. Producer, & so is Producer Daniel Gartner.
Applause, applause!
BARBRA STREISAND AWARDED TENTH ANNIVERSARY GENESIS PRIZE
According to the Jerusalem Post, Barbra Streisand has been named as the 10th anniversary Genesis Prize Laureate by The Genesis Prize. “I am delighted to be honored by the special 10th-anniversary Genesis Prize and to work with The Genesis Prize Foundation to support organizations that seek to better society and our shared humanity,” she said, adding, “I am very proud of my Jewish heritage and have always been moved by the Jewish tradition of tikkun olam to repair the world. I hope to join and inspire others in their own commitment to build a better world.”
The $1 million Genesis Prize, dubbed the “Jewish Nobel” by Time magazine, honors extraordinary individuals for their outstanding professional achievements, contributions to humanity and commitment to Jewish values. Following the tradition of Genesis Prize recipients, Streisand has asked the Genesis Prize Foundation to direct her prize funds to nonprofit organizations working in four areas: protecting the environment, promoting women’s health, combating disinformation in the media and aiding the people of Ukraine.
Michal Herzog, wife of President Isaac Herzog, said: “Barbra Streisand is not only my idol, a wonderful singer and actress, but also a trailblazer woman in the show business and film industry – an inspiration for women around the world. She is a true friend of Israel, an exemplary leader in the Jewish and human rights spheres – the definition of a woman of valor!”
Barbra will be honored at a special ceremony in Los Angeles in October 2023.
Happy Birthday, Barbra!
I'm sending you well-wishes and hoping you have a big slice of happy today!
Best wishes to a beautiful lady.
XOXO,
Matt
BARBRA STREISAND: THE MUSIC (MY BOOK!)
The books are shipping! (They're shipping to everyone who pre-ordered direct from the publisher ... Amazon, etc. will ship on the release date.)
I've been told we are very close to SELLING OUT this first printing of my book (that's amazing news!!!).
The best bet (if you haven't ordered the book yet and want it) is to order from Amazon. We've already accounted for their quota of books, so they should be shipping those out on the 24th.
Otherwise, it looks like a couple of months to reprint a new batch of books and ship them! We want to be re-stocked for the holidays.
Thank you EVERYONE for the support on this project.
And ... I hope you enjoy the book!
XOXO,
Matt
MY BOOK COMES OUT THIS MONTH
Barbra Streisand: The Music comes out April 24th!!!! For all who pre-ordered, I'd like you to know that the bulk shipment did not arrive as early as we would have liked. The books are shipping out very soon, however, so no worries.
For those who have followed my publisher, Scott, and I on YouTube, we posted our final episode (link to the right/below).
I'm going to appear LIVE on Richard Skipper's YouTube channel on April 24th to talk about the book and, of course, Barbra's birthday!!! Richard is a fun host, so please join in! (link to the right/below).
BARBRA STREISAND NEWS
The biggest news for Barbra is her own memoir, which comes out in November. You can pre-order it from Amazon here.
There will be some CD releases this year, but those will be announced later ... something's coming! Something good!
There are other projects in the works, but it's much too early to comment, so ... stay tuned!
Many ask about a new album from Barbra. The only thing we know at this point is that she has spoken about collecting new songs from Desmond Child, and two songs from Michel Legrand with lyrics by Alan Bergman. Perhaps we'll get that album next year?
100% OF BARBRA’S CATALOG ON STREAMING NOW
Last week Barbra’s two albums which had never been released to streaming platforms were FINALLY added: the soundtrack to her 1975 movie sequel, FUNNY LADY. And her EP (only about 13-minutes) of the music she composed for her 1987 movie, NUTS.
This is GREAT news except now my forthcoming book, already printed, is wrong! LOL. Oh well, the world moves so fast.
FYI, for those who are wondering ... The version of Funny Lady that is streaming is the 1998 Arista CD version which includes the single version of “How Lucky Can You Get” as well as the alternate version of “Great Day”. Also, this version includes the “well, I'll be damned” intro to the song “Let's Hear It For Me” — the first time this was ever included on a release of this soundtrack.
Nuts is complete and unchanged from any earlier releases.
You can find these albums on streaming services like Spotify, Apple Music and Tidal.
Meanwhile, I encourage you to enjoy the three-part interview with the amazing Jay Landers about Barbra's three most recent albums. These videos are meant to promote my book ... but I know you all enjoy Jay and his amazing behind-the-scenes stories!!! He's an amazing raconteur!
The Barbra Archives YouTube Channel is here
BARBRA STREISAND TO RECEIVE THE JUSTICE RUTH BADER GINSBURG WOMAN OF LEADERSHIP AWARD IN WASHINGTON
BARBRA STREISAND has been chosen by the Dwight D. Opperman Foundation as the fourth recipient of the Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg Woman of Leadership Award, which will be presented on April 22, 2023 in Washington, D.C. at the Library of Congress.
Recognizing the impact she had on the world and wishing to inspire leaders for generations to come, Justice Ginsburg had established her legacy award prior to her passing with Julie Opperman, Chairman of the Dwight D. Opperman Foundation, in 2019. The Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg Woman of Leadership Award is presented annually to an exceptional woman who has been an exemplary leader in her chosen field.
"We were honored to present The Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg Woman of Leadership Award to The Queen of England last year, and we are equally ecstatic this year to honor our own queen of music and film, Barbra Streisand-- an unrivaled American cultural icon who has brought her own brand of magic to the entire world," said Chairman of the Dwight D. Opperman Foundation and award creator, Julie Opperman. "I made a promise to Justice Ginsburg to help preserve her legacy and to ensure that this award that bears her name continues to recognize strong women leaders who have made the world a better place, and I only wish she was here today to celebrate Ms. Streisand with us."
Chair of The Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg Woman of Leadership Award, and the nation's most noted patriotic philanthropist, David Rubenstein said, "Barbra Streisand is not only the greatest performing artist in our country's history, she is also an American who is fully committed to doing whatever she can to enable the country to live up to its founding principles. And let's not forget, like Justice Ginsburg, she's from Brooklyn!"
Ms. Streisand was nominated by Adrienne Arsht, Lionel Riche and Mo Rocca, three of the 12-member award committee, and was elected unanimously by the voting council.
Rocca noted in a nomination statement, "For Barbra Streisand, being a good citizen and a great artist are inextricably linked. Every choice she makes as an American and as an artist is informed and conscientious--from the mind and from the heart." Echoing the full committee's sentiments, he also noted, "Plus, I just really love her!"
INTERVIEW ABOUT THE MUSIC BOOK
BROADWAY WORLD INTERVIEW
I was interviewed about my forthcoming book by the fantabulous Broadway World. Read it here:
These podcasts on YouTube have been so much fun for weeks. Our schedules haven't worked out for the next two.
UPDATE 2/21: I've received so many questions, that I will premiere the first Q&A episode on 2/22, followed by a second one on 2/25. Next week, I'll record a third.
The Barbra Archives YouTube Channel is here
STREISAND MEMOIR “MY NAME IS BARBRA” TO
FINALLY RELEASE NOV. 7TH
Extremely exciting! After all these years ....
Viking, a Penguin Random House imprint, announced today that Streisand’s My Name Is Barbra will be published on Nov. 7.
Viking stated that “The book is, like Barbra herself, frank, funny, opinionated and charming. She recounts her early struggles to become an actress, eventually turning to singing to earn a living; the recording of some of her acclaimed albums; the years of effort involved in making Yentl; her direction of The Prince of Tides; her friendships with figures ranging from Marlon Brando to Madeleine Albright; her political advocacy; and the fulfillment she’s found in her marriage to James Brolin.”
The book, over 1,000 pages long, is being released in hardcover and in the Kindle format. Penguin has listed an audiobook, but not divulged if Streisand is reading it herself yet.
PRE-ORDER THE BOOK FROM AMAZON.COM HERE
STREISAND AUCTION ITEMS
Barbra has signed two albums to benefit Julien's Auctions MusiCares Charity Auction Benefit, which helps the music community in times of need.
Check out the online catalog here.
MATT & SCOTT YOUTUBE VIDEOS
In advance of my book,
BARBRA STREISAND: THE MUSIC, my publisher, Scott Ryan, and I have recorded
weekly YouTube episodes in which we visit Barbra's ENTIRE discography and pick our one favorite song from each album.
Don't miss part one of three of our interview with Barbra's A&R man, Jay Landers, who has worked on all of her albums and concerts since the 1990s! Jay even plays along and picks his favorite track from this era in the next three shows.
Jay has amazing stories to tell you all. ENJOY!!
THE WAY WE WERE 50TH
It's coming ... a recent update to Amazon says Sony’s 4K UHD disc of this movie is coming February 14th* — Valentine's Day. And Amazon also confirmed (although it's since been taken down) that Barbra has contributed to a new edit of the movie incorporating, no doubt, the essential scenes she feels were important to the story which were cut out during the original theatrical run of The Way We Were. Amazing !
More to be revealed. Sony hasn't put up the cover art yet. A couple of websites have it, but I do not believe the official artwork has been posted yet.
* UPDATE Jan. 25th: Looks like the February date was not written in stone. Look for TWWW 4k UHD by Fall 2023.
LOTS GOING ON !
There's two books about making The Way We Were coming out (see below), and to top that, it appears that Sony will be releasing a 50th Anniversary edition of the film in 4K Ultra HD ... probably January or February 2023, although it has not been officially announced yet. The Digital Bits has reported this. I'll post more info when it becomes available!
Meanwhile ... on Broadway ... current Funny Girl revival star, Lea Michele, tells the press she has received a note from Barbra. "It was a beautiful, handwritten note that I will cherish," Michele said. "She was incredibly complimentary. It exists. It happened, and now I feel like so many dreams can come true." Apparently, Barbra suggested she should direct Michele in a film remake of the musical!
And since my book, BARBRA STREISAND: THE MUSIC is coming out in four months (pre-order HERE!), my publisher and I are working hard to promote it, especially for pre-sales, which help our independent publishing budget! To promote the book, Scott & I post a YouTube video every week in which we examine five Streisand albums and are FORCED to pick only ONE favorite song from each.
It's been so much fun, and it's an exercise in opinion and fantasy, because how could we ever choose??
I wanted to point out two episodes which we are especially proud of: We JUST posted the newest one in which Barbra's codirector of concerts, Richard Jay-Alexander, participates in the fun.
And Scott & I had SO MUCH fun with guest Renee Nicole Gray, too. She is the creative force behind Streisand Style Files, in which she digs deep into Barbra's amazing FASHION. Renee was a hoot, and I think you will enjoy our chatter. We definitely talk FASHION, and Renee pairs an alcoholic drink with each of the albums we discuss. HILARIOUS!
You can watch them all on my Barbra Archives YouTube Channel, which is here.
Coming up, in a 2-part future episode, is our amazing chat with
Barbra's A&R man, Jay Landers!!!!! Jay wrote the foreword to my book and also contributed many exclusive stories about the albums he worked on with Barbra since the 1990s! So many great stories .... Stay tuned!!
INTERNATIONAL HOLOCAUST SURVIVORS NIGHT 2022
This year’s virtual event focuses on the theme of hope in the face of rising antisemitism. Celebrity greetings will be heard from Emmy-award winning actor Henry Winkler, star of Happy Days; Tony award-winning actor Jason Alexander from Seinfeld; Emmy-award winning actor David Strathairn; and Emmy and Tony-nominated actress Tovah Feldshuh, currently featured in the Broadway revival of Funny Girl. The cast of the National Yiddish Theatre Folksbiene’s widely-acclaimed Yiddish production of Fiddler on the Roof will perform “Traditsye.”
[The website does not confirm that Barbra will appear, but since her name and photo are being used, we may assume she has possibly recorded a video message to be broadcast ... let's see.]
PODCAST WITH SCOTT RYAN & SPECIAL GUEST: RICHARD JAY-ALEXANDER
Author Matt Howe has written the first book ever about Barbra Streisand's 60-year recording career. Scott Ryan of Fayetteville Mafia Press (the publisher of Matt's book) interviews Matt Howe and Richard Jay-Alexander, who codirects her concerts and helped produce Miss Saigon, Phantom, and concerts by Bernadette Peters, Lea Salonga, and many others.
Or at the Red Room Podcast on iTunes Podcasts here
As always, I want you to know that your pre-orders help us (as an independent publishing company), as the book comes out April 24, 2023. You can see a preview of the book there, AND pre-order it!
BON SOIR PRESS & CHART PLACEMENT
Live at the Bon Soir sold 7,500 copies in the U.S. in the week ending Nov. 10th according to Billboard. That puts her at No. 7 on Billboard's Top Current Album Sales and No. 150 on the Billboard 200 list (her 64th entry on that chart). Of the 7,500 copies, 5,000 of those were CDs; the rest were digital sales.
On Amazon, the CD ranked #1 on the Pop category last week. It's currently #2 there, and #5 on their CDs & Vinyl category.
Barbra did not promote this album as extensively as previous ones, but in case you have not seen these major interviews, here are links:
MATT & SCOTT YOUTUBE VIDEOS
In advance of my book, BARBRA STREISAND: THE MUSIC, my publisher, Scott Ryan, and I have begun recording weekly YouTube episodes in which we visit Barbra's ENTIRE discography and pick our one favorite song from each album.
We love to “talk Barbra” and surprise each other with our picks! We have a special guest joining us in an upcoming episode. We hope you enjoy these — we have a good time making them!
BON SOIR CD RELEASED FRIDAY
In case you haven't heard ... Barbra Streisand Live at the Bon Soir is being released November 4th. This is the first time this concert, recorded in 1962, has been officially released.
I've received my copy and I can tell you the sound is stunning, and Barbra, a mere 20 years old, sounds beautiful.
MORE BARBRA BOOKS
I hope you've all pre-ordered MY upcoming book about Barbra's music (link is here) ... I can now reveal the BACK cover, too (see front and back covers below...)
I'd be remiss if I didn't alert you to two more coming out soon.
First, there's Streisand: The Mirror of Difference by Garrett Stewart, due out next month. Link to book
Next, due January 2023, is The Way They Were: How Epic Battles and Bruised Egos Brought a Classic Hollywood Love Story to the Screen by Robert Hofler. Link to Amazon
And ... another book about The Way We Were — The Making of a Romantic Classic by Tom Santopietro is due in March. Link to Amazon
BEHIND THE SCENES: BARBRA’S LYRIC VIDEO
I hope you've all seen the promotional video of “Cry Me A River” for Barbra's upcoming LIVE AT THE BON SOIR album.
I was able to talk to the video's director, Matt Amato, about how he recreated all of the 1962 nightclub night. I can't wait for you to read it! The link is here. Enjoy!!
NEW BARBRA COVER STORY
The November/December 2022 edition of Cabaret Scenes magazine has Barbra as a cover story with an article inside by Todd Sussman.
This is a PRINTED magazine only available through the American Songbook Association and Cabaret Scenes Magazine. It can be yours for only $15. Place your order by October 13th, and your copy will be shipped in three weeks. Supplies are limited.
https://americansongbookassociation.org/donate/
When you go to the link do this:
Established in 1995, Cabaret Scenes magazine is the only print publication in the world that focuses on the excitement of cabaret — its songs, its performers, its songwriters, and the clubs in which the magic happens.
LIVE AT THE BON SOIR TO BE RELEASED NOV. 4TH
From Columbia's press release:
Recorded in a tiny Greenwich Village nightclub on November 4, 5 and 6, 1962 (just weeks after Streisand inked her first record deal with Columbia on October 1), Live At The Bon Soir was originally intended to be Barbra’s debut album for the label. The tapes for Live At The Bon Soir were eventually shelved in favor of 1963’s The Barbra Streisand Album.
2022 marks the 60th anniversary of her legendary appearances at the famed Greenwich Village haunt, The Bon Soir. For the first time, Barbra Streisand – Live At The Bon Soir includes 24 tracks that have been produced, mixed and approved by Barbra Streisand and released in their entirety as an album. All of the original master tapes are from Barbra’s personal vault.
Grammy Award-winning engineer, Jochem van der Saag, has subtly solved audio issues in ways his predecessors could hardly have fathomed. Absolutely nothing about Barbra’s sterling vocals has been altered. However, the overall sonic picture has been greatly improved from the original tapes.”
Jay Landers wrote the extensive liner notes for the CD, which includes rare photos.
TRACKS
1. Introduction by David Kapralik (Columbia Records)/My Name Is Barbara (Leonard Bernstein)
2. Much More (Tom Jones/Harvey Schmidt)
3. Napoleon (Harold Arlen/E.Y. Harburg)
4. I Hate Music (Leonard Bernstein)
5. Right As The Rain (Harold Arlen/E.Y. Harburg)
6. Cry Me A River (Arthur Hamilton)
7. Value (Jeff Harris)
8. Lover, Come Back To Me (Oscar Hammerstein II/Sigmund Romberg)
9. Band Introductions
10. Soon It’s Gonna Rain (Harvey Schmidt/Tom Jones)
11. Come To The Supermarket (In Old Peking) (Cole Porter)
12. When The Sun Comes Out (Harold Arlen/Ted Koehler)
13. Happy Days Are Here Again (Jack Yellen/Milton Ager)
14. Keepin’ Out Of Mischief Now (Andy Razaf/Thomas “Fats” Waller)
15. A Sleepin’ Bee (Harold Arlen/Truman Capote)
16. I Had Myself A True Love (Harold Arlen/Johnny Mercer)
17. Bewitched, Bothered And Bewildered (Richard Rodgers/Lorenz Hart)
18. Who’s Afraid Of The Big Bad Wolf? (Frank Churchill/Ann Ronell)
19. I’ll Tell The Man In The Street (Richard Rodgers/Lorenz Hart)
20. A Taste Of Honey (Bobby Scott/Ric Marlow)
21. Never Will I Marry (Frank Loesser)
22. Nobody’s Heart Belongs To Me (Richard Rodgers/Lorenz Hart)
23. My Honey’s Lovin’ Arms (Herman Ruby/Joseph Meyer)
24. I Stayed Too Long At The Fair (Billy Barnes)
Besides a 1 CD (links above), Columbia is releasing a 2 LP version of the album via Impex Records — which says it will deliver “Spring 2023.” The 2-LP HQ-180 gram vinyl set gets a tip-on gatefold jacket and a similarly-featured 12-page booklet.
Impex Records is also producing an SACD of the album (Super Audio CD). Their website says that product will be delivered “Winter 2022.”
BARBRA SUPPORTS UKRAINE
Barbra Streisand has become the ambassador for the Ukraine government’s official fundraising platform, United24, after a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Streisand, whose grandparents emigrated to the U.S. from Ukraine, donated $24,000 to 24,000 Friends of Ukraine, which asks for $24 monthly subscriptions to help doctors plan the procurement of medical supplies on the frontlines of the country’s war against Russia, which invaded in February.
The goal is to sign up 24,000 subscribers, which would result in more that $500,000 per month in money raised.
“Coming from my Jewish heritage with Ukrainian roots, I feel especially moved by [Ukrainian’s fight for freedom],” Streisand told Zelenskyy.
“The capability and courage of the Ukrainian people is an inspiration for all those worldwide who promote democracy and fight authoritarianism. You and the Ukrainian people have my full support.”
BARBRA BOOK FINAL COVER & PREORDER
Here's the final cover for the book I've written about Barbra Streisand's music career — the albums and singles.
This an oversized hardback book with full-color illustrations, printed on premium paper.
RELEASE DATE: April 24, 2023
BARBRA IN SIDNEY POITIER DOC
Barbra appears on camera talking about the great Sidney Poitier in a new documentary about him —
Sidney — premiering September 23 on AppleTV+
BARBRA HONORS MARILYN BERGMAN
Barbra Streisand offered a video congratulations to her dear friend who died in January, Marilyn Bergman. Bergman was inducted into the 2022 Women Songwriters Hall of Fame.
The video contains newly recorded commentary by Barbra, as well as some rare photos. It's very heart-felt.
BARBRA IN PERES DOCUMENTARY
Barbra Streisand appears in the recent documentary about Shimon Peres, the ninth president of Israel.
Not only does Barbra appear in interview segments, she is also shown singing “Avinu Malkeinu” for Peres at his 90th birthday in Israel.
Never Stop Dreaming: The Life and Legacy of Shimon Peres is now streaming on Netflix.
JAMES CAAN DIES
Barbra’s Funny Lady co-star passed away last week at the age of 82. On social media, Barbra posted: ”I’m so sorry to hear about Jimmy. He was so talented.”
CLAMMAH FOR DRAMAH — FUNNY GIRL
The Broadway revival of Funny Girl had a crazy couple of weeks, with the announcement that star Beanie Feldstein would leave the show in September. Then, on Sunday, Feldstein posted on social media that she would leave earlier than expected, July 31st. The next day the producers of Funny Girl announced that Lea Michele (of Glee) would be the new Fanny, starting in September. Tovah Feldshuh (Broadway's Yentl in the 1980s) is joining the musical, too, replacing Glee's Jane Lynch, who is currently playing Mrs. Brice.
Theater Mania notes: ”From August 2-September 4, the role of Fanny will be played by current standby Julie Benko. Michele and Feldshuh will join the cast as Fanny and Mrs. Brice beginning Tuesday, September 6. Benko will begin to play a regular schedule of Thursday night performances as Fanny beginning September 8.”
This is an interesting turn of events, considering that the revival was essentially ignored at the Tony Awards, and the original cast has failed to record a new cast album. Feldstein’s reviews were not entirely positive, and she has been criticized for the amount of shows she has missed, even though a few days were lost to her contracting COVID.
Lea Michele, of course, played out an entire storyline on the fifth season of the Glee T.V. show in which her character auditioned for and won the role of Fanny Brice in a fictitious revival of Funny Girl ! On that show, Michele recorded and performed these Funny Girl songs: People, Don’t Rain On My Parade, You Are Woman, I Am Man, Who Are You Now, My Man, and I'm the Greatest Star.
I love to create Barbra Streisand playlists on Spotify !
Here's my latest ... "Summer Streisand"
I've tried to incorporate sexy songs, seasonal songs, and even segue instrumental tracks from some of her movie soundtracks.
Enjoy!!
XOXO,
Matt
BIRTHDAY & BOOK
We’re still celebrating!
My publisher announced my book a YEAR in advance — you can preorder by clicking here.
I have written (almost done!) a book about Barbra’s recording career. BARBRA STREISAND: THE ALBUMS, THE SINGLES, THE MUSIC. It's a deep-dive into all of her albums and singles. It’s been a pleasure (and a challenge!) to write. But it will be out in 2023.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY BARBRA!
This year is a momentous milestone, and I wish you love, health, and best wishes on your special day. I'm so very grateful for you and all the talents you've shared with us.
XOXO,
Matt Howe
Streisand Tribute Magazines
Since Barbra's 80th birthday is coming up, there are now two magazines on stands that are dedicated to her — yes, that means the entire magazine is all about Barbra, with photos (and some typos!).
Look for them in your local stores. Here's some links to buy them online (below). And for those who simply CAN’T wait, see ZINIO for digital downloads.
Woman's World (Bauer) — Amazon link
People Magazine (due April 15) — Amazon link
“Gotta Move” For Bud Light NEXT
Barbra Streisand has licensed her 1963 recording (with bongos!) of the Peter Matz-penned song, “Gotta Move” to Bud Light's new product, NEXT (with zero carbs!) and the commercial aired during the Super Bowl game.
“Wholesale” Deluxe
By the way … Stage Door Records has released a 2-CD Deluxe Edition of I CAN GET IT FOR YOU WHOLESALE, Barbra’s first #broadwaymusical & one of her first #columbiarecords recordings. Extra tracks include demos, orchestra covers, & vocal covers. No extra Streisand material here. But look them up on Amazon if you want to collect this.
Marilyn Bergman Has Died
What a week!
The sad news is that Barbra's friend and amazing lyricist Marilyn Bergman passed away this morning at age 93.
You can read about her career over at Deadline.
You can also read the interview I conducted with Marilyn and Alan in 2007 here.
I'm sure Barbra must be heartbroken. Sending loving energy to Alan Bergman and their family.
Sidney Poitier Has Died
The New York Times has reported that “Sidney Poitier, whose portrayal of resolute heroes in films like “To Sir With Love,” “In the Heat of the Night” and “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner” established him as Hollywood’s first Black matinee idol and helped open the door for Black actors in the film industry, has died at 94.”
Poitier was a political activist, a film icon, and a man before his time.
Streisand joined Paul Newman and Sidney Poitier in 1969 to form First Artists, the brainchild of their agent Freddie Fields. (Steve McQueen and Dustin Hoffman also joined as partners a few years later.)
First Artists Production Co., Ltd. was a subsidiary of Warner Brothers and Newman, Poitier and Streisand agreed to each make three movies for the company without taking multi-million-dollar salaries up front. The producer-stars had the creative freedom to make whatever film they wanted, so long as the budget was under $3 million-dollars.
In 2001, Poitier presented Barbra Streisand with her American Film Institute award.
On her official social media, Barbra posted:
Dearest Sidney, you were a gentle giant in life, in politics, and in the movies. You will remain in our hearts and on our screens forever. May you rest in peace.
With fond memories,
Barbra
Peter Bogdanovich Has Died
Deadline has reported: “Peter Bogdanovich, the actor, film historian and critic-turned-director of such classics as The Last Picture Show, Paper Moon, What’s Up, Doc? and Mask, died today of natural causes at his home in Los Angeles. He was 82.”
On social media, Barbra posted: “Peter always made me laugh! He’ll keep making them laugh up there too. May he rest in peace.”
Bogdanovich was a Hollywood icon and made so many amazing films. He will be missed.
What's Up, Doc? is the movie I always show to Streisand neophytes when I want to introduce them to her work. It's still so funny and wonderfully done.
Carlos Marín Has Died
Carlos Marín, the Spanish baritone and member of group Il Divo, has died at age 53. Il Divo toured with Barbra Streisand during her 2006 concert dates. (Pictured far right in the photo).
Other Il Divo members David Miller, Sébastien Izambard and Urs Bühler, posted on social media: “It is with heavy hearts that we are letting you know that our friend and partner, Carlos Marin, has passed away. He will be missed by his friends, family and fans.”
On her social media, Barbra posted: ”Too young to leave us Carlos. RIP.”
Jason’s New EP Released
On December 3rd, Jason Gould released a new EP of five songs sung in his distinctive style. Titled Dark Grey Skies, you can order it digitally wherever you get your online music.
Stephen Sondheim Has Died
The New York Times has reported that Stephen Sondheim, “Titan of the American Musical” has died at age 91.
Barbra Streisand posted a statement on her social media quickly: “Thank the Lord that Sondheim lived to be 91 years old so he had the time to write such wonderful music and GREAT lyrics! May he Rest In Peace.”
Streisand has worked closely with Sondheim over the years on her recordings of his songs.
Streisand Honors David Shire
Barbra Streisand participated in a video appearance to honor Maltby/Shire.
From the Playbill article: The York Theatre Company's 29th Oscar Hammerstein Award Gala, honoring musical theatre composing team Richard Maltby, Jr. and David Shire(Baby; Big; Starting Here, Starting Now; Closer Than Ever) with the 2021 Oscar Hammerstein Award for Lifetime Achievement in Musical Theatre and Elisa Loti Stein with The York Theatre Company Founders Award, is held November 1 in Manhattan at The Edison Ballroom.
The Art of Bob Mackie Book
I've been told that the forthcoming book about costume and fashion designer Bob Mackie features quite a bit of info about his work with Barbra on the 1975 movie sequel, Funny Lady. The book will be released November 16th in hardcover and on Kindle.
A Barbra Archives Playlist on Spotify
I love making playlists on Spotify! Here's the latest ... Barbra Best Live — 32 tracks of Barbra Streisand singing live.
Enjoy!
— Matt
Barbra Streisand to fund forward-looking institute at UCLA focused on solving societal challenges
“Building upon her decades of work as an artist and activist, Barbra Streisand’s visionary act of generosity will enable UCLA scholars from many different fields to collaborate on research that will move society forward,” UCLA Chancellor Gene Block said.
The Barbra Streisand Institute includes 4 research centers that address her concerns:
These centers will be housed in UCLA’s Division of Social Sciences.
“It is my great pleasure to be able to fund an institute at UCLA, one of the world’s premier universities,” Streisand said. “This will be a place where future scholars can discuss, engage and argue about the most important issues of the day; where innovators will speak truth to power, help save our planet, and make glass ceilings for women an anachronism; and in the process give us a chance to have a brighter, more promising future.”
“The future Barbra Streisand Institute will bring to bear the full range of UCLA’s social sciences expertise on the most pressing societal issues of the day, guiding policy and informing solutions to benefit all,” said Darnell Hunt, dean of social sciences in the UCLA College.
Ahead of the formal establishment of the institute, which will occur when the full gift amount is received, the work will be housed at the UCLA Center for the Study of Women. The center is internationally renowned for research in areas including women’s empowerment, environmental sustainability, women’s health, public policy and politics, and arts, culture and narrative storytelling. Streisand’s gift extends the center’s robust research on critical issues that affect women and society overall.
“This incredible gift will have an impact on our university for generations, and it is an auspicious moment for us to mark the second century for UCLA,” said Dr. Eric Esrailian, UCLA faculty member, co-chair of the UCLA Second Century Council and longtime friend of Streisand who will be collaborating on programming for the Barbra Streisand Institute.
The first area of study and advocacy will focus on truth in the public sphere, a subject which Streisand is especially passionate about. Speakers and research will delve into urgent and existential threats to democracy, and examine how lies and the proliferation of disinformation can destroy a civic sense of decency, as well as entire countries.
Streisand says, “While it’s easy to reflect on the past, I can’t stop thinking about the future and what it holds for our children, our planet and our society. The Barbra Streisand Institute at UCLA will be an exploration into vital issues that affect us all…and the fact that my father, Emanuel Streisand, was an educator makes this Institute even more meaningful to me.”
“LET’S TALK TO LUCY” RADIO SHOW FROM 1964
Finally! In 1964, Lucille Ball started doing a radio show for CBS in which she interviewed stars in 10-minute segments.
You may now listen to the Streisand interview (free!) on YouTube or on Apple Podcasts.
“Live at Mister Kelly’s” COMING TO DVD & DIGITAL
The excellent documentary about Mister Kelly’s — the famous Chicago nightclub where Barbra, Bette, Woody, Sarah, and more performed is coming to DVD in October. You can order it from the adjacent link.
I've seen the documentary and it includes a voice-over from Barbra, plus some very rare photos of Streisand in Chicago in 1963.
“RELEASE ME 2” ON THE CHARTS
Streisand’s latest debuted on the Billboard 200 Chart at #15. Release Me 2 was the #5 top selling vinyl, too, according to Billboard — thanks to all those different LP covers! I've updated the Release Me 2 album page with more info since the album dropped.
On Billboard’s U.K. Albums Chart, Release Me 2 came in at #5.
Rock magazine Rolling Stone keeps an album chart, too, and tallies Release Me 2 at #10 on their list (selling 23,700 album-equivalent units — 19,700 of those were full copies for the week, whereas song streams were at 407,500.)
And don't miss another new interview with Barbra on the Australian show
The Sunday Project here on YouTube.
“RELEASE ME 2” — MORE, MORE, MORE
Fans have begun to receive their orders — I've just opened my blue Spotify LP and box set with coasters and playing cards!
I hope everyone is enjoying the MUSIC, too. In my humble opinion, the Target bonus track (”When the Lovin’ Goes Out of the Lovin’”) is sooooooo good!! I've heard a crappy bootleg of this for years, but always enjoyed the tune. The way they've remixed and re-orchestrated it is ..... beautiful.
LATEST: ROSS KING WILL INTERVIEW BARBRA THURS. AUG 12 AT 9AM GMT ON ITV’S LORRAINE SHOW (U.K.)
Meanwhile ..... Barbra was on Jimmy Fallon’s Tonight Show last night and it was a great interview. (Videos below). Also — Official Barbra Streisand has been posting “track commentary” which is interesting!
LAVENDER “RELEASE ME 2”
The Lavender LP version of Release Me 2 was offered to Amazon Prime European fans and many U.S. fans have wondered how to get it. Well, it's recently been added to the U.S. website of Amazon.com as an international delivery. They even offer free international shipping to Prime members (or you can pay around $20 for expedited delivery). Good luck! (Amazon ads below)
MORE “RELEASE ME 2”
Release Me 2 is out!
On Friday, August 6th, when it was released, HITS Daily Double reported that Release Me 2 was #3 on iTunes — Nas and Chris Young were at the first two spots.
HITS also predicted the week’s winners and it appears that Barbra’s Release Me 2 will fall somewhere in the top ten.
Billboard, the music business magazine, will post its Billboard 200 album chart by mid-August and we’ll see how Barbra did (based on physical sales and streaming and downloads).
The music streaming companies Tidal and Pandora are each offering Streisand commentary with their Release Me 2 streams. On Pandora, Barbra offers a few seconds of commentary on the songs “Be Aware” and “Rainbow Connection.” Tidal has Streisand talking about “Sweet Forgiveness” and “One Day.”
And don't forget that Barbra will appear on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon Tuesday, Aug. 10th.
I've also been alerted that Barbra will talk with British (ITV) talk personality Lorraine Kelly in mid-August, too (date TBA).
“RELEASE ME 2” RELEASE DAY !
LATEST ON “RELEASE ME 2”
HERE COMES THE PRESS FOR “RELEASE ME 2”
The new album is out in nine days! You'll start seeing/hearing Barbra's press to support the album starting here... starting now ....
I'll add to the list as more become available .....
“SWEET FORGIVENESS” REMIX
Posted today for streaming or download is a new remix of the song “Sweet Forgiveness” — at the beginning of this month, the original, orchestrated version was released that will appear on the forthcoming Release Me 2 album.
The new mix, titled “J’s Remix,” is offered as a 4:00-minute version and a 3:33-minute “Radio Remix.” “J,” by the way is Jochem van der Saag, who mixed several of the songs on the new album.
On July 19th, the radio edit of the “Sweet Forgiveness” remix premiered on the BBC Radio's Zoe Ball Breakfast Show.
“LIVING WITHOUT YOU” AT BROADWAY WORLD
Broadway World, on July 21, posted an exclusive first-listen to Barbra's heartrending interpretation of Randy Newman's "Living Without You" — one of four Newman compositions originally recorded in 1971 for Barbra's Stoney End album.
LISTEN TO IT HERE.
NEW SONG — RELEASE ME 2
This extraordinary song — “Sweet Forgiveness” — was released today and most Streisand fans I've talked to online are gobsmacked.
Written by Barbra's pal Walter Afanasieff, with lyrics by John Bettis, it was recorded on April 7, 1994 in Los Angeles and orchestrated by Jeremy Lubbock.
The song premiered in the U.K. this morning on the Zoe Ball Breakfast Show (BBC Radio 2). Later in the U.S., “Sweet Forgiveness” was made available on Spotify, YouTube, and digital pre-orders.
On Barbra’s social media today, they posted a short commentary video in which Barbra says that while they were recording “Ordinary Miracles,” Walter asked if she'd sing a song he had written for her. This recording is literally the only full take they did of the song! (They ran out of time in the studio). So here is one-take-Barbra in utter perfection.
Release Me 2, the album on which this song will appear, is due in stores August 6th.
Four a.m.
Another sleepless night
Each weary word I write
A tear on the page
Here I am
Asking myself again
Why does this love we’re in
Stay just out of reach?
Tell me why we never get the balance just exactly right?
We scream across the distance from our separate sides
And wonder when did passion turn to pride?
You and I …. two lives, one heart.
Believing everyday will be the day when sweet forgiveness starts.
I need you
To let me stand alone
To call my life my own.
Yet stand by my side.
I know I
Don’t let you know enough.
Don’t let love show enough.
Don’t let you be strong.
Oh, tell me why we never get surrender just exactly right
We never can remember there’s another side
That lies between the passion and the pride
You and I … two lives, one heart.
One leap of faith away, we stay until the sweet forgiveness starts.
Walls, we built these very walls
Where my shadow falls along
And doors between my life and yours
Open them before everything is gone
Sweet forgiveness touch me before dawn ….
You and I … two lives, one heart.
We keep the dream alive, surviving till the sweet forgiveness starts.
DNC VIRTUAL GAY PRIDE 2021
Barbra Streisand opened this virtual event, appearing on camera from her home in California. She enthusiastically introduced Vice President Kamala Harris.
The event aired online June 30, 2021 and other artists like Kristen Chenoweth, Melissa Etheridge, Billy Porter, Matt Bomer and more participated.
Broadway diva and amazing political satirist Randy Rainbow has posted a very special Pride Month video to the tune of Barbra’s ”I’m the Greatest Star” — all centered on her forthcoming album, “Release Me.”
This is extraordinary and so much fun !!!
"Rainbow Connection" by Barbra Streisand (Duet with Kermit The Frog).
From Barbra’s forthcoming album, Release Me 2 (due out August 6th).
Produced by Barbra Streisand & Jochem van der Saag, “Rainbow Connection“ was recorded in 1979 (for the Wet album) and 2020.
LEGRAND
On the evening of June 19, 2021, Barbra Streisand presented an award to an international film composer at the first Le Prix Michel Legrand. The ceremony was streamed online and took place in person at Legrand’s castle-home in France.
Streisand’s pre-recorded segment appears at the 19-minute mark on YouTube.
DNC PRIDE
On Wed., June 30th, Barbra Streisand will provide the introduction to the Democratic National Committee Pride Celebration that honors June as the LGBTQ+ community’s Pride month.
The performers for the virtual event include Andra Day, Billy Porter, Kristin Chenoweth and Melissa Etheridge. Also making appearances will be Andy Cohen, Colman Domingo, George Takei, Matt Bomer and Whoopi Goldberg.
Barbra & Willie Nelson’s duet, “I’d Want It To Be You” from her forthcoming album RELEASE ME 2 is streaming now!
Release Me 2 track list:
Track 1 originally recorded on Singer Presents Burt Bacharach, 1971
Track 2 cut from Butterfly, 1974
Track 3 intended for Partners, 2014
Track 4 unreleased 1994
Track 5 cut from Stoney End, 1971
Track 6 recorded 1968
Track 7 cut from Wet, 1979
Track 8 recorded 1962
Track 9 cut from Guilty Pleasures, 2005
Track 10 unreleased, 1973
Track 11 [Target Bonus Track only] cut from Emotion, 1984
TARGET EXCLUSIVE
BONUS TRACK! (this is the only extra track being offered anywhere)
“When the Lovin Goes Out of the Lovin”
Link to Target CD: https://www.target.com/p/barbra-streisand-release-me-2-target-exclusive-cd/-/A-83490746#lnk=sametab
Target also sells an LP which is pressed on gray vinyl.
Link to Target LP: https://www.target.com/p/barbra-streisand-release-me-2-target-exclusive-vinyl/-/A-83490761#lnk=sametab
BARNES & NOBLE EXCLUSIVE
Green LP album jacket w/ clear vinyl disc – ORDER HERE
OFFICIAL STREISAND STORE
Lots of merchandise!
INDIE RECORD STORE
Red cover with limited edition picture LP — ORDER HERE
SPOTIFY FANS FIRST OFFER
Via email, fans were invited to buy a limited edition (500 units), light blue vinyl LP of Release Me 2, with a 12x12 lithograph. SOLD OUT
AMAZON CANADA
More info to come on this, but Amazon.ca is selling a lavender (lilac) vinyl, too, with a gorgeous Bert Stern outtake lithograph.
Barbra Streisand’s official social media accounts posted that her new album, Release Me 2, would be out on August 6th. It is billed as “a new collection containing previously unreleased tracks from Barbra’s vault.”
Tracks and pre-order links are coming soon, but Barbra did post the cover art (see right) ....
Meanwhile, tomorrow (Thursday) Barbra’s duet from the album with Willie Nelson will play on SiriusXM. The duet is “I'd Want It To Be You” and they'll play it on Willie’s Roadhouse.
The first Release Me album came out in 2012; this is a second volume of rare, unreleased tracks.
From the Chicago Sun-Times:
Chicago will get its first look at a new documentary about the famed Rush Street nightclub Mister Kelly’s this week on WTTW-Channel 11.
The film will air as a one-hour special at 8 p.m. Thursday, followed by a rerun at 10 p.m. Sunday. The full version, clocking in at 80 minutes, premieres nationally this fall.
The film includes live footage of performances from the club, where such greats as Barbra Streisand, Bette Midler, Herbie Hancock and Lenny Bruce got their acts together during their up-and-coming years. Big names including Billie Holiday, Oscar Peterson, Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, Woody Allen and the Smothers Brothers chose the venue as the site of their live albums.
I've seen the documentary and it’s very good! And Barbra definitely makes an appearance with some very rare photos. Be on the lookout for Live at Mister Kelly’s !
YouTube alert! The Harvard Kennedy School's Institute of Politics has posted Barbra’s entire “Artist as Citizen” speech at the school which she gave in 1995. As she says, the speech involves “my convictions and not just my career.”
If you've never seen it, it is worth your time.
The redesign and update of this website has been so warmly received — thank you!!
I've been tweaking things behind the scenes. Your contributions allowed me to increase the SEARCH function (yes, I must pay for the number of pages that are indexed). So, now when you search this website, you will see many more returns. This is better, because the original search level I purchased did not return any t.v. pages and skipped half of the live pages. (Example: if you searched "Judy Garland Show" or "Dinah Shore" those pages were not indexed, so they did not turn up in the search results.). But now, EVERY page is included! YAY!
Over at PayPal, where I set up a “pool” for donations, I am unable to email contributors directly .... sorry about that! But I did want to say here — THANK YOU. Especially Lawrence Gatti for your very generous contribution. Also: Anibal Zambrano, S. Kyriacopoulos, Pat Krummel, Harvey Neese, Joe Goodwin, Kevin Hall, Julie Andrews-Ponter, Douglas Lowe, Karl Urabl, Lynne Horn, Tessie Patterson, Allan Murchie, and Christophe Blondel ... and the anonymous donors, too. THANK YOU ALL SO MUCH. You have been very, very helpful.
And here's another Spotify Playlist (which I greatly enjoy creating). If you're on that platform, please enjoy my latest Streisand Playlist.
There is some Streisand news coming soon ... I'm excited for it! And I'll post it here as soon as it's public.
XO,
Matt
Happy birthday Barbra!!!
I am sending you and your family lots of love on your very special day.
For Barbra’s fans ..... I've made a Spotify Playlist to celebrate Barbra's big day. These are my personal picks ... no logic here. Just my favorite Streisand tracks!!! ENJOY.
And may I say ..... your feedback, contributions, and support for this website are greatly appreciated.
XOXO
Matt
Barbra Streisand participated in a Zoom event, We The People Concert, for President Joe Biden.
She spoke about her hopes for the Biden presidency before introducing a clip of herself singing “Happy Days Are Here Again.”
It's announced that Barbra Streisand will executive produce Lioness, a drama series about the life of Golda Meir with the star of Unorthodox, Shira Haas. The show is from MGM/UA Television in association with Nina Tassler and Denise Di Novi PatMaProductions.
On a live stream, Barbra Streisand presented the Marvin Hamlisch International Award for Film/Media Scoring (Emerging Division).
Below .... A funny Randy Rainbow parody of “Evergreen.” On February 3, 2021, Barbra responded via Tweet: “U have potential!” Randy was wrecked.
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