About the song
“To Love Somebody,” released in 1967, is one of the most beloved and enduring songs by the Bee Gees. Written by Barry and Robin Gibb, the song has captivated audiences with its soulful melody and heartfelt lyrics, making it a timeless classic.
The Bee Gees, comprised of brothers Barry, Robin, and Maurice Gibb, were already establishing themselves as formidable songwriters and performers when “To Love Somebody” was released. The song was part of their international debut album, “Bee Gees’ 1st,” which showcased their ability to blend pop, rock, and soul influences into a unique and compelling sound.
“To Love Somebody” was originally written for Otis Redding, a legendary soul singer whose powerful voice and emotional delivery inspired the Gibb brothers. However, Redding tragically died before he could record the song, prompting the Bee Gees to release it themselves. The song’s lyrics, expressing the deep longing and emotional pain of unrequited love, resonated with listeners and showcased the brothers’ songwriting prowess.
Barry Gibb’s lead vocals, accompanied by the rich harmonies of Robin and Maurice, give the song its distinctive sound. The arrangement, featuring lush orchestration and soulful instrumentation, complements the emotional depth of the lyrics. The chorus, with its poignant plea “You don’t know what it’s like, baby, you don’t know what it’s like to love somebody the way I love you,” captures the essence of the song’s heartfelt message.
Although “To Love Somebody” reached only moderate chart success at the time, peaking at number 17 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and number 41 on the UK Singles Chart, it has since become one of the Bee Gees’ most covered songs. Artists from various genres, including Nina Simone, Michael Bolton, and Janis Joplin, have interpreted the song, each bringing their unique style to its timeless melody.
For older, educated audiences, “To Love Somebody” represents a golden era of music when songwriting and emotional expression were paramount. The Bee Gees’ ability to convey universal themes of love and heartache in a relatable and musically sophisticated manner has ensured the song’s enduring popularity.
“To Love Somebody” remains a testament to the Bee Gees’ extraordinary talent and their contribution to the music world. It is a song that continues to touch the hearts of listeners, offering a poignant reminder of the power of music to convey deep emotion and connect people across generations.
In revisiting “To Love Somebody,” one can appreciate the craftsmanship and sincerity that the Bee Gees brought to their music. It is a classic that stands the test of time, reminding us of the enduring power of love and the timeless appeal of truly great music.
Video
Lyrics
There’s a light, a certain kind of light
That never shone on me
I want my life to be
Lived with you, lived with you
There’s a way, everybody say
To do each and every little thing
But what does it bring
If I ain’t got you, ain’t got youBaby, you don’t know what it’s like
Baby, you don’t know what it’s like
To love somebody
To love somebody
The way I love youIn my brain I see your face again
I know my frame of mind
You ain’t got to be so blind
And I’m blind, so, so, so very blind
I’m a man, can’t you see what I am?
I live and I breathe for you
But what good does it do
If I ain’t got you, ain’t got youBaby, you don’t know what it’s like
Baby, you don’t know what it’s like
To love somebody
To love somebody
The way I love you