Introduction:
“Really and Sincerely” is a poignant track by the Bee Gees, featured on their 1968 album Horizontal. This song stands out not only for its emotive depth but also for its personal significance, particularly to Robin Gibb, one of the group’s principal songwriters and vocalists.
Background and Inspiration
The inspiration behind “Really and Sincerely” is deeply rooted in a traumatic event that profoundly affected Robin Gibb. On November 5, 1967, Robin and his future wife, Molly Hullis, were passengers on a train involved in the Hither Green rail crash in south London. The accident resulted in the tragic loss of over forty lives and left many others injured. Robin and Molly survived, but the harrowing experience left an indelible mark on him. Reflecting on the event, Robin mentioned, “I was in the Hither Green train crash, and it’s kind of a song after that.” This brush with mortality prompted a period of introspection, leading Robin to channel his emotions into the creation of “Really and Sincerely.” The song serves as a meditation on vulnerability, gratitude, and the fragility of life.
Recording Process
The recording sessions for “Really and Sincerely” began shortly after the train crash. The initial version was laid down on November 28, 1967, at IBC Studios in London. This version featured a piano accompaniment, aligning with the instrument on which Robin composed the song. However, the following day, the Bee Gees revisited the track, opting for a Hammond organ to replace the piano, which added a richer, more resonant texture to the arrangement. This second take was ultimately selected for inclusion on the Horizontal album. Robin’s contributions extended beyond vocals; he played the accordion and Hammond organ on the track, while Barry Gibb handled the guitar, and Maurice Gibb played the bass guitar. The orchestral arrangement, which adds a lush backdrop to the song, was crafted by Bill Shepherd.
Musical Composition and Genre
“Really and Sincerely” is often categorized under the baroque pop genre, a style that blends rock and classical music elements, characterized by elaborate arrangements and orchestration. The song’s structure showcases the Bee Gees’ signature harmonies, with Robin’s lead vocals delivering a heartfelt performance that captures the song’s introspective themes. The melancholic tones of the accordion and the depth of the Hammond organ contribute to the song’s somber yet hopeful atmosphere.
Release and Reception
Released in early 1968 as part of the Horizontal album, “Really and Sincerely” was not issued as a standalone single in most markets. However, it did appear as the B-side to “And the Sun Will Shine” in France and later as the B-side to “Let There Be Love” in the Netherlands in 1970. While it didn’t achieve significant commercial success as a single, the song was noted for its emotional depth and has been appreciated by fans and critics alike for its sincerity and the personal story behind it.
Album Context
The Horizontal album marked a period of evolution for the Bee Gees, as they began to experiment with more complex musical arrangements and deeper lyrical themes. The album reached No. 12 on the U.S. charts and No. 16 in the U.K., showcasing the group’s growing international appeal. Tracks like “Massachusetts” and “World” were commercial successes, but songs like “Really and Sincerely” highlighted the band’s ability to tackle profound personal experiences through their music.
Legacy and Impact
Over the years, “Really and Sincerely” has been recognized as a testament to the Bee Gees’ versatility and depth as songwriters and musicians. The song offers listeners a glimpse into a pivotal moment in Robin Gibb’s life, translating personal tragedy into a universally relatable expression of resilience and heartfelt emotion. While it may not have topped the charts, its enduring appeal lies in its authenticity and the raw emotion conveyed through its composition and performance.
In summary, “Really and Sincerely” stands as a significant piece in the Bee Gees’ discography, reflecting a moment of personal upheaval transformed into artistic expression. Its inclusion on the Horizontal album adds depth to the collection, offering a balance between commercial hits and introspective ballads, and continues to resonate with audiences for its heartfelt sincerity.