Introduction:
“One Minute Woman” is a track by the Bee Gees from their international debut album, Bee Gees’ 1st, released on July 14, 1967, in the United Kingdom and August 9, 1967, in the United States. The album marked the group’s emergence onto the global music scene, showcasing their versatility and songwriting prowess.
Recorded between March 7 and April 14, 1967, at IBC Studios in London, “One Minute Woman” is the fourth track on the album’s first side. The song is characterized by its melodic balladry and soulful undertones, fitting well within the psychedelic pop and baroque pop genres that define much of Bee Gees’ 1st.
The album itself is a tapestry of various musical styles, including psychedelic pop, baroque pop, psychedelic rock, art rock, and blue-eyed soul. This eclectic mix not only highlights the Bee Gees’ adaptability but also their ability to craft songs that resonate across different musical landscapes.
While “One Minute Woman” was not released as a single, Bee Gees’ 1st produced several notable hits that contributed to the band’s rising fame. The lead single, “New York Mining Disaster 1941,” released in April 1967, garnered significant attention and airplay. Following that, “To Love Somebody,” released in June 1967, became one of the group’s most enduring songs. Additionally, “Holiday,” released in September 1967 in the U.S., further showcased the band’s melodic sensibilities.
The recording sessions for the album were notably productive. On March 7, 1967, the Bee Gees recorded four songs: “New York Mining Disaster 1941,” “I Can’t See Nobody,” “Red Chair, Fade Away,” and “Turn of the Century.” In April 1967, they added tracks like “To Love Somebody,” “Holiday,” “Gilbert Green,” and “End of My Song.” The sessions concluded on April 14, 1967, with “Holiday” receiving additional attention on April 21, 1967.
“One Minute Woman” stands as a testament to the Bee Gees’ early exploration of complex emotional themes and intricate musical arrangements. Its placement within Bee Gees’ 1st offers listeners a glimpse into the band’s formative years and their journey toward becoming one of the most influential groups in pop music history.