A Tribute to the Bee Gees and the Disco Era

On May 20, 2012,  headlines announced the death of Robin Gibb, 62  and his long struggle with cancer. The death of Maurice in 2003 and Andy in 1998 makes Barry Gibb, the last of the ‘Brothers Gibb’ known as the Bee Gees. Andy Gibb was the youngest brother, although not one of the Bee Gees, he performed with them in many concerts. 

Additionally, with the recent death of the 'disco queen' Donna Summer, it seems the disco era  is slowly slipping onto the dusty shelves of memory.    

Mention disco and the first three things that come to mind are the Bee Gees, “Saturday Night Fever”, and John Travolta. However, the Bee Gees wrote and produced for many well-known artists. Robin Gibb became a solo artist twice, briefly in the late 60’s and years later, after Maurice’s death. Maurice was the ‘techno’ person of the group. Robin was a driving force in the early years with his vibrato tone. Later, when the group evolved into an R&B style, Barry’s falsetto voice became their signature. Nevertheless, the three-part harmony was always present. The brothers blended their unique talents to become icons in the music world. 
             

The Bee Gees hold the honor of ushering in the disco era. They had some early success in the 60's and were considered a 'Beatle' type band. The song "I Started A Joke" was a success and anything but a joke, utilizing Robin's amazing vibrato. The Bee Gees later released "How Can You Mend A broken Heart." (a memorable love ballad). I must admit that I did not know the group at this time, heavy metal and guitar rock, was the thing.

The 70's was a chaotic time, and people needed an outlet. Dancing was the answer. The Bee Gees, along with the movie "Saturday Night Fever," jump started an era were disco music reigned supreme and spread across continents. John Travolta danced his way to fame. But, could he do the 'mechanical man' (robot)? 

This was the epitome of their success. Songs such as "How Deep Is Your Love," "Stayin' Alive," "Jive Talkin," and "Night Fever" become overnight successes.  Many, including myself, wanted to be a John Travolta. Their music made the movie a reality. It had a rhythm that made one feel good, and motivated my decision to join the dance craze.

We can look at the younger generation and think they act crazy. However, take a moment and remember the times of strobe lights, spinning disco balls and people bouncing, cavorting madly to a hard-driving beat, such as "Disco Inferno",  twirling insanely to "The Hustle" or a romantic dance to "How Deep is Your Love". Ah Yes, those were the days. An era when memories were made.