Book Description
One Tony, two Oscars, six Emmys, eight Grammys, ten Golden GlobesBarbra Streisand has enjoyed one of the most unparalleled careers in show business. Tom Santopietro chronicles every moment: from her first recordings and theater appearances to her newest album (September 2005), marking the roles and the songs that brought home awards in every field and earned her the title of best selling pop female vocalist of all time. With a winning style and encyclopedic expertise he celebrates the numerous career highlights in film, theater, albums, concerts, and even politics without ignoring some of the bumps in her road to superstardom. Streisand is truly Americas greatest living diva, and only a fan and aficionado such as Santopietro could offer such a canny, critical, yet loving look at the many ups and downs of nearly forty years in the spotlight.
Customer Reviews:
Barbra as product; slick, stylish but flawed!.......2007-09-27
This book is NOT a biography; it is strictly a book reviewing & critiquing Barbra's work in theater, television, film, recordings, concerts, & politics.
The author makes some good observations and is generally fair in his assessments. I didn't agree with his views 100% of the time but it was fun to see what he did & did not like. It's easy to see what failed in hindsight however, Stantopietro does not gloat but rather laments what might have been with perhaps a little more thought or planning on Barbra's part.
Fun; a definite "must have" for true Barbra fans!
Babs is back.......2007-03-16
Great book better than "The way she is" which barbra didnt like according to her web site. It was a gift and wonderfully received. great details and bio.
Save your money!.......2007-03-11
What a disappointment buying this book! The entire book is a compilation of one man's opinions of every album, song, movie, etc. of hers
Give me a break! He even hated "A Love like ours" and Guilty Pleasures"...
Nothing new to be learned from this book, save your money and borrow it from your local library and see if youwant it in your collection.
Truly the Greatest Star.......2007-02-28
I too guess I'm the wrong person to review this book, having been a Barbra Streisand fan for 43 of my 53 years. But, finally, it's exciting to read a well written book that delves into what matters the most - the creative work of Ms. Streisand. She has always said that the public knows the truth when they hear or see it, and this book does well in focusing on the considerable talents of Barbra; that's the truth. She is the most talented artist/entertainer of our generation. Heck, of just about any generation. The author knows his subject well; so well in fact that he can appreciate the nunances of her recordings, films, television and concert works. How wonderful to read a book by someone who knows her work so intimately (as do we die-hard fans) to be able to note the vocal and phrasing differences in the 9 recorded versions of "People" over the years on various albums. That's what I call a connoisseur! The author's breathe and depth are exceptional, and I for one am glad that after so many books which dish her fingernails, hairstyles, clothes, dating history, or whatever, this author focuses on what matters the most. And what matters the most is the outstanding quality of work this "actress who sings" has given the world. A must read for the long-term fan who has been with her from "My Name is Barbra" to the Fall 2006 Concert tour, and equally valuable for the newer fan, or anyone who wonders why Barbra Streisand is The Greatest Star. Thank you Barbra for your incredible work, and thank you Tom for an excellent, credible book.
Goes beyond the usual background check.......2006-09-24
Barbra Streisand is a global icon so much has already been written about her life and personality - yet here's another side, an analytical look at her career, myths an realties from her early recordings to her TV specials and beyond. Chapters provide new insights based on her career choices and moves, and thus THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING BARBRA goes beyond the usual background check to delve into artistic creation, influences, and values.
Diane C. Donovan
California Bookwatch
Average customer rating:
- A Barbra Fan's or Vocal Enthusiast's Dream
- Technical Stuff
- Expensive Disappointment
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The Barbra Streisand Companion: A Guide to Her Vocal Style and Repertoire (Companions to Celebrated Musicians)
Linda Pohly
Manufacturer: Greenwood Press
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Binding: Hardcover
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ASIN: 0313304149 |
Book Description
Barbra Streisand has enjoyed worldwide artistic success for more than three decades, and her recordings are a consistent and integral part of her multifaceted professional life. As part of Greenwood's series, Companions to Celebrated Musicians, this volume explores the musical life and style of Barbra Streisand and places her in the context of American popular music of the second half of the 20th century. Attention is given to other aspects of her career as they relate to her recordings. Chapters proceed chronologically and trace Streisand's evolving musical career and her successes. Analytical sections focus on musical elements, such as instrumentation and orchestration, melody, harmony, rhythm and tone, dynamics, and form, as they examine in detail Streisand's recordings and songs. This study of Barbra Streisand's music will appeal to American and popular music scholars and fans alike. The detailed musical analysis is written in straightforward prose. An appendix includes an album discography, song discography, and listing of other recordings and videos. An extensive bibliography serves as a guide to further research.
Customer Reviews:
A Barbra Fan's or Vocal Enthusiast's Dream.......2005-09-15
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. I have been a lifelong fan of Ms. Streisand's vocals, and to have all of her styles and vocal capabilities studied and documented along with interesting tid-bits about her career is truly a great thing for posterity. Very interesting, entertaining and memory provoking!
Technical Stuff.......2002-11-26
Not your usual Barbra bio, but add it to your collection.
Expensive Disappointment.......2000-03-20
There is a huge void when it comes to musical studies or analyses on Streisand. Having been fascinated all my life with Streisand's voice, but having no formal musical training, I didn't think twice about spending $50 on The Barbra Streisand Companion.
It didn't take more than a day to realize this book is not what I expected. For starters, the book is comprised of 6 chapters, 3 appendices, and a reference bibliography. Of all these 256 pages, only 4 chapters (122 pages) are presented as musical analyses. Chapter 1 is devoted to biographical material (as if we need another biography) and includes details such as:
-Barbra was named to the International Best Dressed List in 1965;
-Barbra was snubbed by the Oscars;
-Barbra has a hobby of buying and redecorating houses; and
-Barbra has Christie's auctions to sell her belongings.
Honestly, I do not know how the author feels these details contribute to a musical study of Miss Streisand. After the biography, the author categorizes Barbra's lengthy career into four time periods (hence, the four chapters mentioned earlier) and begins her "analytical sections".
Are you familiar with My Fair Lady? If you are reading this, you probably are. In that movie, Henry Higgins is a professor who studies language and enunciation. I was reminded of him as I read the following in the Companion:
"Careful study...illuminates the diversity of her palette as related to diction. Words ending in er are sung as though spelled uh or ah...vowel combinations...are almost chewed...."
This kind of analyses in repeated over and over (and over) in this book. The quote above was made in reference to The Barbra Streisand Album. However, in the discussion of this album, there is no reference to Barbra's vocal range (highest note, lowest note), the key she is singing on, or how well she is singing in tune. Other than diction, the author does touch on some of the musical influences noted, song types (she lumps all Barbra's early years into 4 categories), and descriptions of how certain songs are played out. However, these descriptions are rarely useful, and quite honestly, not anything the reader doesn't already know. For example, "this ... arrangement begins with Barbra and plucked string bass. Shortly, strings and brass and a rhythm section join...". Honestly, most Streisand fans could have easily written this.
When reading the Preface, I noticed it started with a Streisand quote, "...excellence is in the details." Which is why I was very surprised when I came across a number of factual errors in the discography, For example:
-p. 196. "Barbra and Neil received a Grammy...for their recording." (No, they did not.)
-p. 200. "The score [Yentl]...is rated multi-platinum in sales" (No, it is only platinum.)
-p. 210. "Nolte won in the category of Best Actor." (Again--No. Nolte did not win an Oscar for The Prince of Tides.)
In short, this book provides some new, unique material in the area of musical analyses, but for the most part, has little the average Streisand fan doesn't already know. However, if you are Professor Higgins (and I truly hope he only exists in My Fair Lady), this is the one Streisand book you must have.
Customer Reviews:
Definitely Beloved..........2002-09-02
I don't have this book yet but I've read the excerpts...
I truly love Barry and Barbara also. I've always loved Barbara, ever since I was a little girl, I wanted her to be my sister. I've always thought that she's just as beautiful on the inside as on the outside. It truly shows...
Heh heh, and Barry could be my brother. I love Barry's writing. It's personal and friendly, the feeling I get from it is that he's a very nice man. I love his voice also, as well as his acting. He is multi-talented...
Barbara definitely is BELOVED (and Barry too)...
I'm a fan, always have been. And hey! People may find it hard to believe, but I don't even have a single one of Barbara's movies or albums!
I was very poor and never could afford to buy much of anything (except for food, well actually, I always have bought lots of books). Recently though, my financial situation has changed (I'm very happy to say) and I plan on rectifying my dismal lack of a collection, having recently also purchased an absolutely awesome stereo system (finally)...
And I plan on buying Barry's book too!
P.S. I just can't finish this without adding that Barry was the best Pilate that there ever was...
A Slice Of Streisand's Life.......2002-07-31
There have been many Streisand biographies. She's accomplished so much in her life. Barry Dennen's sweet book MY LIFE WITH BARBRA is a slice of Streisand's life. It's also a snap shot of Mr. Dennen's life and contains many personal details about him. Dennen tells a good story and has an ear for dialogue. Of course, there is no way Dennen could remember the conversations he quotes verbatim - but I don't think he claims to. Rather, his book is a sort of "misty, water-colored" memory of the days in Manhattan with Barbra Streisand. He catches Streisand's cadences very well, though.
It's nice to hear about Streisand from someone who knew her personally. Everything I've always suspected was true - at least in her early career. Barbra was sweet and tough, ignorant and brilliant, self-absorbed and giving. She was very taken with her "look" and it's interesting to read about how she concentrated on her makeup and clothes so much.
The most fascinating part of the book is Dennen's recollections of some phone calls from the "adult" Barbra in 1992 and 1997. We see Barbra as we suspect she is: a little burdened with stardom; obsessed with the truth and trying to control how others tell it.
This book is great! At the end, I was most impressed that, despite the years that lapsed between Dennen and Streisand's love affair and friendship, Streisand still kept in touch. I suspect she is a loyal friend, despite her eccentricities.
His Life With Barbra.......2000-05-03
I found this book to be very enjoyable. I have long been a Streisand fan and have read many of her biographies, but this one, I would have to say is one of the best. Dennen takes us thru Barbra's early years, when she was just starting out as an actress, and describes his part in pushing her toward being the greatest singer of our times. This book is very sweet and I definately recomend it to any Barbra fan.
THE DEFINITIVE BARBRA BOOK.......1999-08-16
My Life with Barbra is an absolute must for anyone interested. No other book written about her can boast of such an intimate perspective. Mr. Dennen was there from the very beginning, even before she attempted to sing in public for the first time. If you're considering a Barbra book, make this the one.
The most informative and entertaing book ever written!.......1998-11-09
Being a Barbra Streisand fan, I loved how the book gave you a glimpse into her past, from an insider, it felt like I was really there experiencing it all with her! The best book I've ever read is "My Life with Barbra"
Customer Reviews:
One of the Best Biographies Of All Time.......2003-06-13
This very detailed and descriptive analysis of Barbra Streisand's career by Alison J. Waldman. She examines almost every detail and aspect of Barbra's very large and extensive career. The part I enjoyed most was the music section where she describes the preparation of and commercial action of each of Barbra's CDs. It is nice to see how stars choose what songs and how all the songs work together. No less fascinating is the Movie section which is very comprehensive. Waldman even crafts a Scale rating the movies' many factors such as Longtime Durability and Success. For the private life, there is some spilling of the beans here and for projects Barbra could have participated in, one can imagine. The book also has a section that chronicles the top rumors of Streisand that are either proven or disproven. One can tell that the author is a fan of Streiand as she details many elements in a style and manner that is highly uncontestable among other biographers of not only Streisand but others as well. Also, the Bette Midler Scrapbook also by Waldman is a good read as well.
Everything You Always Wanted To Know ...........2002-07-19
Allison Waldman's book is great for any Streisand fan. It is exhaustingly researched and as idiosyncratic as anything Barbra would produce.
The picture choices are wonderful - no run-of-the-mill API photographs here. Lots of rare and candid shots.
Allison does a particularly great job on the unreleased stuff (movies, songs).
Not enough updates.......2001-12-07
If you already own the original Scrapbook (which is a great read, no arguing there), don't bother buying this "revised and updated" version. The only "revised and updated" things in the book are a new chapter added to the end of the book that summarizes her projects over the past few years and a new cover . The first chapter of the book still states she is single...it has not been updated to reflect her marriage to James Brolin. Also, her discography in the book has not been updated to include her past several albums. This is just a few examples of the examples why this "updated" version is disapointing and not needed in your book shelf. Wait for a real updated version, I have no doubt that the author will update it again, as it seems to be a great and cheap way to earn extra money.
Not really "revised and updated".......2001-11-26
If you already own the original Scrapbook (which is great), don't bother buying this "revised and updated" version. The only "revised and updated" things in the book are a new cover and a new chapter added to the end of the book that summarizes her projects over the past few years. The first chapter of the book, which details her vital statistics, still states she is single...it has not been updated to reflect her marriage to James. Also, her discography in the book has not been updated to include her past several albums. This is just a few examples of pages in the book that have not been "updated and revised"....there are many, many more. What a disappointed and waste of money.
Simply Wonderful!!!!!.......2001-11-16
This is THE definitive book about Barbra Streisand, no question about it. It has gorgeous pictures and a lot of information, and it is simply a joy to read. (...)
I recommend this book to everyone, not just devout fans- it's a must-have!!
Book Description
THE FILMS OF BARBRA STREISAND features over 150 stunning color and black & white photographs--many published for the first time--as well as complete cast and credit listings, and a sampling of reviews. The volume also boasts exclusive, illuminating comments from dozens of Streisand's co-workers and friends. Authors Christopher Nickens and Karen Swenson have included a forty-page biographical overview that traces Barbra Streisand's remarkable journey from "dreary obscurity in Flatbush to heights of fame, acclaim and fortune no one would have dared predict." Her legendary triumphs as a concerts and recording artists, Broadway star and television personality are well documented, as are highlights from her personal life--including her marriages to Elliott Gould and James Brolin.
Customer Reviews:
Great Overview.......2002-06-06
Barbara Streisand isn't given her due for Her Films.this Book covers alot of Her Film Career! good Pictures&Reflections.
Films Of Barbra Streisand.......2001-04-08
This book is an excellent insight into Barbra's film career. Lots of detail to the behind the screen stories. Many Classic picture's and hard to find shot's of Barbra. A must have for any Barbra Fan!!!
Barbra Fans Unite!.......2000-02-26
Calling all Barbra Joan Streisand fans! Now is the time to support the would be publication of a comprehensive resource guide to Barbra's extraordinary film career. If Citadel is unable to publish such a nifty volume, then we should let other publishers know that such a book would be of significant interest. I hope that it won't be long until Ms. Swenson and Mr. Nickens find a home for their work (and on a more personal note, I hope that the somewhat overlooked "On A Clear Day You Can See Forever" (1970) and the sadly neglected "Up The Sandbox" (1972) receive the glowing credit these two glorious films deserve.) I encourage other Streisand partisans to compose "reviews" of the book they'd most like to add to their library shelves.
Average customer rating:
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Barbra Streisand: Quote, Unquote (Quote Unquote)
Manufacturer: Parragon Plus
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
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ASIN: 0752516035 |
Customer Reviews:
"Hello, gorgeous!".......2005-09-12
This book is great! It's filled with wonderful words about Barbra Streisand. This is the perfect book for the Streisand fan in your life!
Average customer rating:
- Although out of date now, a must for Barbra-philes
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Barbra The First Decade (The Films and Career of Barbra Streisand)
James Spada
Manufacturer: Citadel Press Inc.,U.S.
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
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ASIN: 0806504064 |
Customer Reviews:
Although out of date now, a must for Barbra-philes.......2005-04-13
Even though Karen Swenson attempted a sequel, and James Spada himself followed this up with a terrific rewrite/second chapter, this mid-'70's career overview of Barbra Streisand is simply smashing. Charting her movie career up to "For Pete's Sake" and her music career up to "Barbra Streisand...and Other Musical Instruments", Spada's passion for every-detail-Barbra is apparent and his writing is straight-forward, amusing, informative and candid. Each Streisand album and movie is annotated with reviews, record sleeve and poster artwork, and background information in Spada's summary. I still learn a lot from this book, especially the story behind the "Barbra Joan" photo-jacket session(annoyed on the front, smiling on the back). Spada doesn't reveal the secrets behind Streisand's Quadraphonic recordings(some which differ slightly), nor does he include every Streisand 45 single or mention the differences between those and the album versions, but still, this is quite a job!! Filled with incredible b&w photographs and behind-the-scenes stuff, any Streisand fan will cherish it.
Average customer rating:
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Barbra: The Second Decade
Karen Swenson
Manufacturer: Citadel Press
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Binding: Paperback
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ASIN: 0806511133 |
Average customer rating:
- Great book of articles and trivia
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Diva: barbara streisand and the making of a superstar
Ethlie Ann Vare
Manufacturer: Berkley Trade
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ASIN: 1572971665 |
Customer Reviews:
Great book of articles and trivia.......2002-05-21
This book presents the readers with interviews, magazine clips, articles written by friends and fans, and much more to hail the greatness of Barbra Streisand. I started this book out of curiosity and walked away a fan of this very talented lady.
Average customer rating:
- in response to the other review
- Illusions...
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Robbie Williams: Angels and Demons
Paul Scott
Manufacturer: Andre Deutsch
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Robbie
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Feel
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Robbie Williams - Angels
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The Robbie Williams Show
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Robbie Williams: Somebody Someday
ASIN: 0233000720 |
Book Description
With a record–breaking $140 million–deal with EMI and a new home in Los Angeles, Britain’s King of Pop is at the top of his game. Journalist Paul Scott looks at his often–troubled life and his rise to superstardom.
Customer Reviews:
in response to the other review.......2004-01-08
please don't take too much of this book to heart. Rock stars of this caliber need to protect themselves and not give up too much info about their personal life. Personally, I get a kick out of how he plays with the media and keeps everyone guessing. I was fortunate enough to meet him in his own home and even spend a good deal of time in his house with him and his crew. As far as the MTV Cribs thing being a big lie - I designed the media systems in his house and believe me those cars are real... except the Bentley, I think, but he said that in the interview. Whether he actually drives them? Who cares? If I had that much dough, I'd have someone cart me around LA as well.
Illusions..........2003-12-02
Having been a fan of Rob since his first chord in Take That, I was extremely disappointed by some of the revelations in this author's work. It's one of two things... Either the author, Paul, is extremely jealous/bitter about Rob's success... or it's all pretty much true with some hearsay mixed in, and it's not a very good reflection upon his personality. He struck a nerve when he mentioned... women always want to have sex with him and then 'fix' him. Reading about his serious drug and alchohol addiction almost put me off because of the type of person he seemed to turn into when he was under the influence. I'm extremely open minded, so the slight jibes that he might actually be gay, they didn't bother me half as much as hearing Kinsella apparently quoted that 'he was an extremely boring man.' 'Not much to talk about'. 'Self obsessed'... This was disturbing and I have to say, this piece of work has influenced the way I see Rob for forever... I'm a transplanted Brit too.. and I understand that no one here was privy to his tormented years in the late nineties, but if he doesn't make it, oh well. May he find whatever it is he's so desperately searching for (and get his driver's licence on the way. What disappointment to find out he doesn't even drive and hasn't passed his test) This means the LA version of Cribs was a big lie. And the gay men in his lounge may well have been indicative of his true preference. Oh well, he has the ability to be a great entertainer, but for God's Sake Rob, Get over yourself!
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- The Piano
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- The Thin Red Line
- The Ufa Story: A History of Germany's Greatest Film Company, 1918-1945 (Weimar and Now: German Cultural Criticism, 23)
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Barbra: The Way She Is
Barbra Streisand - One Voice
Streisand: Live In Concert (2 CD's)
Inside The Actors Studio - Icons (Paul Newman / Robert Redford / Barbra Streisand / Clint Eastwood)
A Star Is Born
