Los Angeles, California — Barbra Streisand is reuniting with a host of musical icons for her upcoming album, “The Secret of Life: Partners, Volume Two.” Set for release on June 27, this new collection of duets showcases a range of artists from various generations, including Bob Dylan, Paul McCartney, and contemporary stars like Hozier and Laufey. This project serves as a follow-up to her 2014 album, “Partners.”
Among the album’s 11 tracks is “One Heart, One Voice,” a trio featuring the powerful vocals of both Mariah Carey and Ariana Grande, highlighting Streisand’s knack for collaboration. Other notable voices joining her on the album include Sting, James Taylor, Sam Smith, Josh Groban, Tim McGraw, and Seal, creating a rich tapestry of sound and artistry.
The first single, a rendition of “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,” pairs Streisand with Hozier. The song, which has become a timeless classic, is accompanied by Hozier’s heartfelt reflection on working with Streisand. He described the collaboration as a significant honor, adding that the song holds a deep emotional resonance for him. Hozier expressed his hope that their duet pays tribute to the legacy of the late Roberta Flack, who gained acclaim for her rendition of the track.
Streisand’s collaboration with Bob Dylan is particularly anticipated, as he is known for rarely engaging in duet work. Their interpretation of “The Very Thought of You” promises to explore the unique tonal interplay between Streisand’s lush vocals and Dylan’s signature style. This marks a rare partnership, echoing Dylan’s earlier collaboration with Bette Midler in the mid-1970s.
Some tracks will feature songs from the catalogs of their respected collaborators. Paul McCartney’s contribution, “My Valentine,” originally penned for his album of standards, finds a new life in this upcoming work, showcasing McCartney’s enduring appeal. Similarly, Sting’s iconic ballad “Fragile” makes a return, while Laufey, a rising artist in her early twenties, will perform “Letter to My 13-Year-Old Self,” bringing a fresh perspective to the classic.
Streisand shared her enthusiasm for the project, emphasizing her love for singing alongside talented artists. She expressed a deep admiration for her collaborators, many of whom are both familiar and new to her. The album is said to capture the joy of collaboration and creativity, reflecting the unique dynamics each artist brings to the studio.
The album was produced by industry veterans Walter Afanasieff and Peter Asher, with Streisand and her longtime A&R executive, Jay Landers, serving as executive producers. The orchestrations are crafted by acclaimed musicians William Ross and David Campbell. Recording sessions took place at the Streisand Scoring Stage in Culver City and at the historic Abbey Road Studios in London.
As anticipation builds for the album’s release, music lovers can look forward to a rich collection that celebrates the power of collaboration and the timeless nature of friendship through music. Streisand’s continued relevance in the industry is a testament to her lasting talent and the universal appeal of her artistry.