Los Angeles, California — Barbra Streisand is set to unveil her highly anticipated duets album, “The Secret of Life: Partners, Volume Two,” featuring an impressive lineup of musical talent from iconic legends to contemporary stars. The album includes collaborations with Paul McCartney, James Taylor, Sting, Mariah Carey, Ariana Grande, and Sam Smith. Among these notable names is an unexpected guest: Bob Dylan.
The connection between Streisand and Dylan is deeper than mere coincidence. Both artists, now 83, share Jewish heritage and a storied history in American music. They began their journeys by transforming their birth names—Barbra Streisand and Robert Zimmerman—and seeking fame in New York City, albeit from different origins. Their relationship with Columbia Records binds them even further, as they have both remained loyal to the label throughout their illustrious careers.
Reflecting on their intertwined histories, it is noteworthy that Dylan once expressed admiration for Streisand. In an interview that surfaced after blues musician Tony Glover’s passing, Dylan disclosed he wrote “Lay Lady Lay” for her. Streisand later remarked how flattered she felt upon learning of this homage. This was not a fleeting moment; the two have exchanged gestures of appreciation over the decades, including notes and flowers.
In her recently published memoir, “My Name Is Barbra,” Streisand revisited their history, recounting how Dylan reached out to her in the 1970s, encouraging her to join him for a duet. She also shared how, five years later, Dylan anticipated her film “Yentl” and hoped to collaborate with her as a director. His letter described her as his “favorite movie star,” highlighting his admiration for her determination and creativity.
As excitement mounts for the upcoming album, fans are eager to hear their long-withheld duet. The track titled “The Very Thought of You” may pay homage to the classic standard composed by Ray Noble in 1934. Speculation abounds regarding the possibility of an unreleased Dylan original sharing the same name from 1985, though many believe it more likely aligns with the classic.
In a promotional statement, Streisand expressed her enthusiasm for collaborating with both familiar and fresh faces. “I’ve always appreciated singing duets with talented artists,” she said. “They bring unique inspirations to the studio, making the creative process a joy. I hope listeners will relish the collaborations just as much as I enjoyed bringing them to life.”
Streisand’s forthcoming album, marking a sequel to her 2014 release “Partners,” promises an array of dynamic partnerships. The album is scheduled to be released on June 27, inviting fans to experience the musical synergy and rich history shared among these remarkable artists.