Madonna, Barbra Streisand & Bette Midler Almost Recorded a Duet—Here’s Why It Fell Apart

A Dream Collaboration That Never Happened

Imagine three of the biggest music legends—Madonna, Barbra Streisand, and Bette Midler—joining forces for a powerhouse performance. It almost happened in 1993, when the trio was set to record "Anything You Can Do I Can Do Better" from Annie Get Your Gun for Streisand’s album Back to Broadway. However, despite an exciting concept and initial agreement, the project fell apart before it could take shape.

The Exciting Concept Behind the Collaboration

Music producer David Foster had created a unique arrangement that would showcase each artist’s distinct style:

• Madonna was set to bring a disco-inspired beat to her lines.
• Bette Midler would add a signature theatrical touch, including a nod to her hit Wind Beneath My Wings.
• Barbra Streisand would step in as a mediator in a humorous exchange between the two, appearing as if emerging from a restroom stall to break up the playful feud.

How the Plan Unraveled

According to Jay Landers, Streisand’s A&R representative, the trio was enthusiastic, and everything was in place for recording. However, just as plans were being finalized, Madonna abruptly backed out. The exact reason for her withdrawal remains a mystery, leaving fans to speculate what could have been.

A Missed Opportunity in Music History

Landers called it “the fish that got away”, as this collaboration had the potential to be an unforgettable mix of Broadway and pop. In the end, Back to Broadway featured a different lineup:

• Johnny Mathis stepped in to sing I Have a Love/One Hand, One Heart from West Side Story with Streisand.
• Michael Crawford, her Hello, Dolly! co-star, joined her for Music of the Night from Phantom of the Opera.

Streisand’s Broadway Legacy

Although this superstar trio never came to life, Streisand’s influence on Broadway remains unparalleled. She made her Broadway debut at just 19 in I Can Get It for You Wholesale, earning a Tony nomination. In 1970, she received a special Tony Award, solidifying her status as a Broadway legend.

What Could Have Been: The Ultimate ‘What If’

While fans never got to witness the magic of Madonna, Streisand, and Midler together, the idea remains a fascinating “what if” in music history. Would this have been one of the greatest musical collaborations of all time? We’ll never know—but the thought alone is enough to spark curiosity among music lovers worldwide.