Introduction:
“To Love Somebody” is a song written by Barry and Robin Gibb of the Bee Gees. Produced by Robert Stigwood, it was released in June 1967 as the second single from their international debut album, “Bee Gees’ 1st”. The song is a soulful ballad that has since become one of the group’s most enduring and covered hits.
Origins and Inspiration
The genesis of “To Love Somebody” is rooted in the Bee Gees’ collaboration with their manager, Robert Stigwood. Stigwood requested that Barry and Robin Gibb compose a soulful ballad in the style of American R&B artists like Sam & Dave or The Rascals, specifically for Otis Redding. According to Robin Gibb, “Otis Redding said he loved our material and would Barry write him a song.” The Bee Gees recorded the track in April 1967 at IBC Studios in London. Tragically, Redding died in a plane crash later that year before he had the opportunity to record the song.
In a 2001 interview with Mojo magazine, Barry Gibb revealed a more personal layer to the song’s inspiration:
“It was for Robert [Stigwood]. I say that unabashedly. He asked me to write a song for him, personally. It was written in New York and played to Otis but, personally, it was for Robert. He meant a great deal to me. I don’t think it was a homosexual affection but a tremendous admiration for this man’s abilities and gifts.”
This insight adds depth to the song’s emotional resonance, highlighting the profound respect and admiration Barry felt for Stigwood.
Musical Composition and Genre
“To Love Somebody” is characterized by its soulful melody and heartfelt lyrics, embodying the blue-eyed soul genre—a term used to describe soul and R&B music performed by white artists. The song features a lush orchestral arrangement by Bill Shepherd, complementing Barry Gibb’s emotive lead vocals and the harmonious backing vocals of Robin and Maurice Gibb. The instrumentation includes acoustic and electric guitars, bass, drums, and orchestral strings, creating a rich and expressive soundscape.
Release and Chart Performance
Upon its release in June 1967, “To Love Somebody” achieved moderate commercial success. In the United States, the single reached number 17 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, while in the United Kingdom, it peaked at number 41. The song found greater success in other countries, reaching the top 10 in Canada and peaking at number 8 in Belgium. Despite its modest initial chart performance, the song has endured as one of the Bee Gees’ most beloved tracks.
Critical Reception and Legacy
Over time, “To Love Somebody” has been recognized as a pop standard, praised for its soulful depth and emotional sincerity. The song has been covered by numerous artists across various genres, further cementing its place in music history. Notable covers include renditions by Nina Simone, Janis Joplin, Roberta Flack, Michael Bolton, and Michael Bublé, each bringing their unique interpretation to the song. In a 2017 interview, Barry Gibb reflected on the song’s enduring appeal, stating that “To Love Somebody” was the song he would choose as it has “a clear, emotional message.”
Conclusion
“To Love Somebody” stands as a testament to the Bee Gees’ songwriting prowess and their ability to convey profound emotion through music. Its enduring popularity and the multitude of cover versions it has inspired underscore its universal appeal and timeless quality. The song remains a significant milestone in the Bee Gees’ illustrious career and continues to resonate with audiences around the world.