“Woman in Love” is a hit song by Barbra Streisand, released in August 1980 with “Run Wild” on the B-side as the lead single from her album Guilty. The song was written by Barry Gibb and his brother Robin Gibb of the Bee Gees, and it became one of Streisand’s most successful songs, reaching No. 1 on the charts in multiple countries, including the U.S., UK, and Australia.
Lyrically, “Woman in Love” is a passionate declaration of love and devotion. The song explores the intense emotions and personal sacrifices that come with being deeply in love, portraying love as both exhilarating and all-consuming. Streisand delivers lines like “I am a woman in love, and I’d do anything to get you into my world” with deep emotion, capturing the essence of romantic vulnerability and commitment. The song’s themes of love’s power and its ability to take over one’s life resonated with listeners around the world.
Musically, “Woman in Love” is a lush, orchestral pop ballad typical of the smooth, melodic sound that characterized Streisand’s work during this period. Barry Gibb’s influence is evident in the song’s structure, with its sweeping strings, gentle piano, and rhythmic backing, giving it a Bee Gees-style blend of pop and soft rock. Streisand’s powerful, soaring vocals are the centerpiece of the song, as she conveys both strength and tenderness in her delivery.
The song was a massive commercial success. It topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the U.S. for three weeks and earned Streisand international acclaim. “Woman in Love” won several awards and was a key track on the Guilty album, which itself was highly successful, becoming one of Streisand’s best-selling albums.
The music video for “Woman in Love” included clips from Frank Pierson’s romantic drama film “A Star Is Born”, starring Streisand and Kris Kristofferson, and from other movies she made.
Despite the song’s success, Streisand has said that she personally did not fully connect with its lyrical message, finding the idea of total submission in love somewhat contrary to her own values. However, her flawless execution and Gibb’s expert songwriting made “Woman in Love” a timeless love anthem.
The song remains one of Streisand’s biggest and most recognizable hits, often associated with her legendary career as one of the greatest vocalists in pop music history.