To celebrate Barry Gibb's recent emotional and triumphant appearance on the Pyramid Stage at Glastonbury, here is the song, written with brother Robin, he has said to be the one of which he is most proud. Originally recorded by The Bee Gees in 1967, it has been extensively covered by many artists including Eric Burdon and the Animals, Nina Simone, Janis Joplin, and Gram Parsons, but arguably this 1969 soul version by James Carr and his powerful voice is a favourite.
The lyrics are emotive, vulnerable: "There's a light, A certain kind of light, That never shone on me, I want my life to be lived with you … 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." The chord changes and the melody are sublime. It is no wonder that of the more than 1,000 songs written by the Gibb brothers - far more prolific for other artists than just as the Bee Gees, this one still has such a strong place on so many hearts. And Gibb, the last brother remaining, was not afraid to show his gratitude and emotions at Glastonbury. A truly great songwriter who can still perform with grace.
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