The Magic of Collaboration
In the realm of music, collaborations often birth extraordinary moments that transcend time. One such instance occurred about a decade ago when two vocal powerhouses, Michael Bublé and Barbra Streisand, joined forces to reinterpret a beloved Frank Sinatra classic, “It Had To Be You.” This enchanting duet, featured on Streisand’s 2014 album Partners, captivated audiences worldwide, showcasing the unique synergy between these two iconic artists.
A Meeting of Musical Titans
Bringing Michael Bublé and Barbra Streisand together was a stroke of genius. Bublé, known for his velvety vocals and charming stage presence, perfectly complements Streisand’s legendary status and powerful voice. Their collaboration was destined to be something truly special, and they did not disappoint.
Streisand’s Partners album was a testament to her extraordinary career, featuring duets with a constellation of music legends, including Stevie Wonder, John Legend, Billy Joel, Lionel Richie, Andrea Bocelli, and even a technologically-assisted Elvis Presley. Yet, it was her collaboration with Bublé that shimmered with an undeniable magic.
A Christmas Gift for the Ages
The duo first performed “It Had To Be You” live on Michael Bublé’s Christmas in New York special in late 2014. Amidst the warm glow of holiday decorations, their performance was a gift to fans worldwide. Their voices blended seamlessly, breathing new life into the Sinatra classic while retaining the song’s timeless elegance.
Michael Bublé and Barbra Streisand performing "It Had To Be You" on Michael Bublé's Christmas in New York special
The chemistry between Bublé and Streisand was palpable. Even at 72, Streisand proved why she remains a force in the music industry, her voice as captivating as ever. This performance was a testament to her enduring talent and ability to connect with audiences across generations.
Mutual Admiration and Respect
A decade later, the impact of their collaboration remains strong. Bublé recently took to Instagram to share his enduring admiration for Streisand, stating, “Believe me when I tell you, it’s been 10 years and I’m still starstruck.”
A video accompanying the post revealed Streisand’s equally high regard for Bublé. “You can just tell by his attitude, his voice, his freedom, his sense of self… and so we can play. ‘OK, you do this, I do that’,” Streisand remarked, highlighting their natural rapport.
Bublé, deeply touched by the experience, praised Streisand’s talent and artistry. “God kissed her throat, and she’s blessed with this beautiful voice,” he expressed, adding, “but I think what makes people fall even more in love with her is her ability to tell a story, and I guess that’s the actress within her.”
The Enduring Legacy of “It Had To Be You”
While often associated with Frank Sinatra, “It Had To Be You” was not one of his original songs. Written by Gus Kahn in the early 1920s, the song gained widespread popularity after Sinatra’s 1980 rendition on his Trilogy: Past Present Future album.
Bublé and Streisand’s version breathed new life into this classic, their heartfelt performance showcasing the song’s enduring appeal. Their duet serves as a reminder of the power of collaboration, the magic that can occur when two extraordinary talents unite to create something truly special.
