In a moment that perfectly blended nostalgia with timeless elegance, four-time Grammy winner Michael Bublé finally fulfilled a lifelong dream—sharing the stage with his idol, the legendary Barbra Streisand. Their heartfelt duet of Frank Sinatra’s iconic holiday tune “It Had To Be You” was nothing short of magical, drawing cheers, tears, and a standing ovation during Bublé’s Christmas in New York special. For Bublé, the moment wasn’t just a professional milestone—it was a deeply personal honor. “What an honor for me!” he exclaimed. “I’m still starstruck.”
This unforgettable performance wasn’t their first collaboration. In 2014, the two joined forces for Streisand’s acclaimed duets album Partners, delivering a studio version of the same song. But it was their live rendition, surrounded by glimmering winter decorations and twinkling Christmas lights, that truly captured hearts. With voices that seemed tailor-made for harmony, the pair brought warmth and intimacy to the beloved standard, giving it new life while honoring its roots.
At 82, Streisand proved once again why she remains a vocal powerhouse. Her legendary voice—rich with emotion and control—paired flawlessly with Bublé’s smooth, velvety tone. Their chemistry was undeniable. Bublé’s gentle gestures and Streisand’s knowing smiles created a sense of ease, transforming their duet into a conversation between kindred spirits. “She tells a story with her voice,” Bublé later said. “It’s the actress within her—and that’s what makes her unforgettable.”
Behind the scenes, both artists expressed genuine admiration for one another. Streisand praised Bublé’s talent and playful spirit, recalling how a small mix-up during rehearsal actually improved their performance. “Somehow, I sang his part,” she laughed. “But these wonderful accidents happen—and we just played.” For her, it was more than just vocal compatibility; it was creative synergy.
Fans couldn’t have asked for a better holiday gift. The performance felt like a love letter to classic music and old-school showmanship—a bridge between generations that made the decades between them disappear. With every note, they honored Frank Sinatra’s legacy while adding a signature touch all their own. For many, the duet evoked memories of snowy nights, family gatherings, and the comforting hum of timeless tunes playing softly in the background.
Originally penned by Gus Kahn in the early 1920s, “It Had To Be You” has seen countless interpretations. Still, it was Frank Sinatra’s 1980 recording that etched it into American consciousness. For Streisand and Bublé to take that mantle in 2014—and again now—was both a tribute and a reinvention. Their version felt reverent but fresh, emotional but effortless, a perfect blend of tradition and artistry.
Ten years after that first collaboration, Bublé still reflects on the experience with awe. “Believe me when I tell you, I’m still starstruck,” he shared on Instagram, alongside a video of their performance. In an industry often consumed by ego, their moment stood as a rare glimpse into something purer: gratitude, admiration, and the simple joy of making beautiful music together.
For fans of both legends, this duet was more than just a performance—it was a memory etched in gold. And for Bublé, singing with Barbra Streisand wasn’t just a bucket-list moment. It was a dream realized—and one that will continue to echo for generations.
