Introduction:
“And the Sun Will Shine” is a poignant ballad by the Bee Gees, featured on their 1968 album Horizontal. Written by Barry, Robin, and Maurice Gibb, the song showcases the group’s early mastery of emotive lyrics and harmonious melodies. Robin Gibb’s soulful lead vocals, reportedly recorded in a single take, convey a deep sense of melancholy and resilience.
The recording sessions for “And the Sun Will Shine” spanned several dates in 1967, with initial demos laid down at Central Sound in London’s Denmark Street. The track evolved over multiple sessions, with contributions from band members Barry Gibb on guitar, Maurice Gibb on bass and piano, Vince Melouney on guitar, and Colin Petersen on drums. The meticulous production, led by Robert Stigwood alongside the Bee Gees, resulted in a rich arrangement that blends folk and baroque pop elements.
Upon its release, the song was issued as a single in France, where it reached number 66 on the French Singles Chart. Although it did not achieve significant commercial success, the track became a staple in the Bee Gees’ live performances. Notably, they performed it on the American television show The Smothers Brothers in February 1968, marking one of their early U.S. television appearances. The song also featured in their 1974 concert in Melbourne and was included as a short excerpt on their 1998 live album One Night Only.
The song’s emotive depth and lyrical beauty have inspired several artists to record their own versions. In 1968, former Manfred Mann frontman Paul Jones released a rendition featuring an impressive lineup of musicians, including Paul McCartney on drums and Jeff Beck on guitar. This version, produced by Peter Asher, highlighted the song’s versatility across different musical styles. Additionally, Puerto Rican singer José Feliciano released a cover in 1969, which peaked at number 25 on the UK charts, further testament to the song’s enduring appeal.
“And the Sun Will Shine” remains a testament to the Bee Gees’ songwriting prowess during the late 1960s, reflecting their ability to craft songs that resonate with emotional depth and universal themes.