What’s incredible in the world of music isn’t just that each singer has their own unique set of vocal cords. The way two different sets of voices can complement one another to form something even more beautiful is equally as astonishing. For that reason, listening to duets will always be a treat.
The latter is the case for Michael Buble and Barbra Streisand. As if the two singers’ voices couldn’t get any better, the two decided to pair up to sing ‘It Had to Be You.’ Now, this is a rendition worth listening to, even if you aren’t much of a fan of either singer.
But, before starting the performance, Michael busts a quick joke to calm the nerves. “This is the cheapest recording session I’ve ever had…because you’re paying for it,” he tells Barbra, who throws her head back and laughs.
Then as the orchestra starts and Barbra’s soft voice begins, I’m already blown away. Two words: instant chills. As Michael’s voice chimes in, it’s clear the two were destined for a duet. If you close your eyes, it’s like listening to the soundtrack of a movie!
To our surprise, Barbra admits her doubts: “I wasn’t [quite] sure how it was going to come out, but I like taking chances, you know, risks because it wasn’t my strength; it was like I was going towards my partner’s strength.” Regardless of Barbra’s initial thoughts, both Barbra and Michael put on a flawless performance amongst the incredible jazz band that paired so soothingly to their voices.
But, not everything was all sunshine and daisies, or well, it almost wasn’t. “Somehow I made a mistake…I sang his part, and then I thought, ‘Oh, that is really good,’ his part, then he sang my part, and these wonderful accidents happen,” Barbra explains.
Even with the mistakes Barbra mentions, as they always say, accidents happen for a reason, but the two singing together was certainly no accident nor coincidence.
In fact, singing with Barbra was a dream for Michael and perhaps one of the greatest musical experiences he’s encountered thus far: “I was just so honored to be asked to do it. And the company that I’m in is incredible company to be keeping. I just wanted to show up and not let her down,” he says, “…but every word, she means what she sang, and I think that’s the difference between just a singer and the greatest storytellers ever. God kissed her throat, and she’s blessed with his beautiful voice…”
In the end, I think everyone enjoyed their performance just as much as the two enjoyed singing! To hear Michael and Barbra’s angelic duet, watch the video below. Aren’t their voices just perfect together?!
