![Barry Gibb (Bee Gees) - Interview 1970 [Reelin' In The Years Archives] - YouTube](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/bIEKzUUPQis/hqdefault.jpg)
Introduction:
In the early 1970s, the Bee Gees were facing one of the most turbulent times in their career. Once known as a united trio that delivered heartfelt harmonies and timeless melodies, the brothers — Barry, Robin, and Maurice Gibb — found themselves caught in both creative and personal conflicts that nearly tore their legacy apart.
When Barry Gibb sat down for an interview, he was honest yet composed about the situation. “It’s only the trade papers that have their little digs,” he said, brushing off the minor controversies in the press. While the national papers remained supportive, the tension between the brothers was undeniable. “There were various arguments between the brothers, which again—it’s a family thing. Any family can argue, but when our family does, it becomes a scandal.”
Barry revealed that the rift wasn’t purely personal. “It was musical more than personal,” he explained. “Robin and Vince both liked blues very much, and at that time, my brothers and I were on a more pop-commercial kick. We loved ballads, and we always will. That was the clash.” Each brother wanted to express his own artistic vision, but the Bee Gees’ magic came from unity — their harmonies, their songwriting, and their bond as siblings.
Despite rumors that Robin instigated the conflict, Barry refused to place blame. “I wouldn’t say Robin actually started it, but somebody most certainly did. If it wasn’t Robin, it was somebody,” he admitted with a faint smile, suggesting that tension was inevitable in a creative family.
As for the future of the Bee Gees, Barry remained cautiously optimistic. “It could be that we’ll see the Bee Gees together again — maybe within the next year. But it wouldn’t mean staying together permanently. We’ll still pursue our own careers.” Even amid uncertainty, his affection for his brothers was clear. “I miss them both as brothers, not just musically. I loved writing songs together — it was always fun.”
Barry also shared his thoughts on the changing face of pop music in England. “There isn’t one trend now. It swings from Tom Jones to Mungo Jerry. Groups split up every day. The ones that can survive will do so.” Reflecting on the Beatles’ breakup, he noted that such shifts were inevitable in a fast-evolving industry.
When asked about the growing trend of musicians collaborating across groups, Barry was firm: “I don’t agree with that. It takes away the glamour of pop music. A star has to be completely alone, or a group has to be completely alone. Otherwise, you lose the magic.”
Though rumors suggested he might leave England for America, Barry clarified his stance. “I don’t think I could live in America. I prefer England or Australia — they’re freer countries. America is too tied up with laws and restrictions.”
Looking ahead, Barry hinted at performing in Australia soon, though uncertain about his brothers’ plans. Despite the rifts, one thing was certain — the Bee Gees’ story was far from over. Their brotherhood, though tested by fame and artistic ambition, remained the heartbeat of their music — fragile, human, and unforgettable.