This is our GSI Mail Box inwhich the BG fans and visitors to this web site can publish
all sorts of questions, suggestions and things you'd wish to share with us.
Many questions we personally answer to you in fact are interesting for all fans to read. Of course we always first ask for your permission to publish!
So write us at: marion@brothersgibb.org, mentioning in the subject of your mail: MAILBOX, and we'll try to help you a.s.a.p.
(Marion GSI).
Poem for Barry
This poem is fairly new and is written to honour Barry and his brothers
and Barry's Mythology tour in Australia.
MY HEART IS WAY DOWN UNDER
I am still living in Chicago,
Yet my heart is way Down Under,
Would that I could be there,
With a cup of Cheer
To replace a tear,
To love and support you
is forever a pleasure,
When you cry, Luv,
Know that we cry along with you,
On this road you travel,
Godspeed and know
Your bros will bring you Home
We'll all be there someday soon!
Margaret Hodge Moores, 8, February, 2013
Book: the "Bee Gees - The Australian Years" Andrew Môn Hughes:
I'm just thinking that there are definite possibilities for expansion in the "Bee Gees - The Australian Years" book project - we had intended to include the BGs visits to Australia after they left in 1967,
so we were going to feature sections on the 1971, 1972, 1974, 1989 and 1999 concerts and also Robin's tour a few years ago.
With Barry currently on tour, and the unveiling of the statue in Redcliffe next week, this, I think will bring closure to the whole Australian story, so I was hoping that we could get new content as it happens.
If you're attending any concerts or see Barry and the family at any other opportunity, and get good photos, please contact me. Also looking for good hi-res (300dpi) scans or any newspaper and magazine articles,
scans of tickets, photos of concerts posters, backstage passes ... ANYTHING relating to this visit.
Also, if there are people in the Brisbane area who have good photos of the pavement tributes, such as the Walk Of Stars at Caloundra or the Walk Of Fame at Fortitude Valley, please get in touch.
Thanks!
I was employed by Irvines Radio/ TV store back in 1960. My supervisor was Hugh Gibb. He often would talk proudly of his boys and would sometimes show me a song that Barry had written the night before.
There was only two of us working in the store. It was shortly after TV was introduced to Brisbane, which was in 1959, so there was a lot of interest in electrical stores at that time, with everybody buying or aspiring to buy a TV set.
Hugh and I were always having fun introducing TV to people for the first time.
I soon learnt that if he was in a bad mood it was easily changed by asking how the boys were doing.
Barbara and the family would often visit Hugh at the workplace so I got to know Barry who is a couple of years younger than I am.
I remember that Hugh had purchased a 1950s Vauxhall car which he was also proud of. We discussed how much he had paid for it (four hundred pounds) and was paying it off.
Around 1961 I left Irvines and went and worked at the Courier Mail In Queen St.
One of my work colleagues there: Cliff Bingham, was dating Lesley Gibb. I have forgotten most things but for some reason those couple of things have stayed with me.
Can't explain why I remember the price of the Vauxhall. It would be great to meet Barry again.
Regards, Terry Adair, Melbourne
Anne Jakowenko, the blog author, has been loving the Bee Gees for decades while raising her sons and teaching college students Speech Communication and English skills at her alma mater,
Syracuse University, where she received her Master's degree. She has also taught for SUNY Oswego and Barry University. Currently,
Anne is teaching for the State College of Florida while she continues to collect stories for her book, My Life with the Boys.
She considers every story that she has heard a gem and is thrilled to honor Barry, Robin and Maurice by sharing the power of their music through the words of the fans who love them.
One of the loveliest stories of my life to recall.
The last concert tour in Brisbane Australia I thought I bet the Bee Gees come to their hometown Redcliffe.
I was at my parent's house who live on the waterfront at Clontarf a suburb of Redcliffe. I saw a stretch limo go past Mum & Dad's house the afternoon before the big concert that night, and thought,
I bet the Bee Gees are in that Limo!
My younger sister and I ran to my car to follow the Limo. I was in such a hurry I had no time to get my shoes or camera!
I thought I bet they go to the Palace hotel where they used to play, so I went there first to find them.
Bingo! Spotted their Limo and we followed the car.
At one stage we were side by side with the Limo and they had darkened windows but my sister and I were waving to them, very excited.
They got out of the car near Humpy bong State School at Margate and being by the beach, it's quite often windy at Redcliffe.
The brothers were walking side by side and Barry's long hair was blowing back in the wind just like in their video clips!
It was surreal to see them there and my sister and I were the only ones around besides them.
My sister said let's get out of the car and say hello but I had no shoes on, no camera, no pen for an autograph, plus a bit shy, so we didn't get to talk to them- unfortunately for us.
I said to my sister Leanne, they look so happy reminiscing about their childhood in Redcliffe, let's go now and leave them in peace alone to enjoy their time without fans bugging them.
This was one of the loveliest stories of my life to recall, I always get excited telling others the day I saw the Bee Gees at Redcliffe.
This wonderful day was topped off by a great night of music at their concert. At the concert, they said who is here from Clontarf,
Redcliffe etc and we proudly put up our hands to show we too were from Redcliffe. It was a great night of music, so many hits, beautiful voices,
Robin's hauntingly so, I loved it so much and have been waiting ever since for the chance to enjoy another wonderful concert with a Bee Gee!
Thanks for coming back Barry, Hope it is not too sad for you without your dear brothers, we all miss them. Maurice was always so happy and enthusiastic, Robin had such a beautiful voice. Carolyn Allan
New book about David English By Stephanie Lynne Thorburn.
Hi Marion,
I'm emailing to offer some summary information on my new Kindle book on David English. The eBook has been published as a special gift to David English and the Bunburys from me this Christmas
A number of my features from Brothers Gibb have been re-archived into this text, (with credit to you and GSI...) www.stephaniethorburn.webs.com
'David English: The RSO Legacy & Bunbury Cricket Club Tails'. By Stephanie Lynne Thorburn.
New Kindle Publication on David English.
Author: Stephanie Lynne Thorburn.
Foreword: David English.
This special edition publication encompasses a compendium of collectable connoisseur's features, reports and interviews themed on
Dr. David English, RSO Records and 26 years of the Bunbury pro-celebrity Cricket Club. Bunbury Cricket was founded in 1986 by Dr. David English and originally comprised the 'Eric Clapton X1'.
The Bunbury cricket project has been supported over time by an unprecedented aggregation of music, showbiz and sporting personalities including Bill Wyman, Sir Ian Botham, Viv Richards, Barry Gibb,
Eric Clapton and Joanna Lumley.
To date, the Bunburys have raised over 15 million for major charities such as Leukaemia Research, Make-A-Wish and the Crossroads Centre, Antigua. The Bunbury Cricket Club enjoyed their Silver Anniversary in 2011.
The overall appeal of this personal memoir on the career of David English is that of a nostalgic almanac or collector's special edition biography.
The material has been assimilated by the author as a labour of love and is a gift to the Bunbury Cricket Club.
Content includes detailed interviews with David on his career and the legacy of RSO Records; there is also a collection of illustrative features on both RSO and the Bunburys.
The book title pays homage to David English and illustrator Jan Brychta's enchanting children's book series, 'The Bunbury Tails'.
The text provides plenty of substance for lovers of David's quintessentially English, eccentric Bunbury C.C.
and is equally informative for those curious in respect to the under documented biographical aspects of Robert Stigwood's archetypal RSO Records.
Hi all ,
I was lucky enough to meet the Bee Gees at a public service Christmas party
that they performed at in 1960 (if memory holds me well) in Brisbane
Queensland. I was only a little girl of about nine years of age and they
were absolutely fantastic. No electric guitars from what I remember but boy
you could see the talent. Santa had landed in an oval new the venue in a
helicopter to bring presents for the children and Maurice asked me if I saw
Santa land ,he could not leave the venue to go to the oval I expect but he
was very interested and excited in what I told him. In the "break for
singing" my brother and I spoke to the boys back stage and Barry showed my
brother how to play the guitar. I was so moved by them that I would not go
home at about ten thirty at night and cried in the car all the way to Upper
Mount Gravatt where we lived. Just lovely people, it remains one on the best
memories I have; Judy
Tribute song: Song For Barry
Lyrics
You stepped into my life with words that were like heaven
With love so right I never felt I was alone, I was the child
The love inside and come on over
For many years your living eyes have touched our lives and touched our souls
With much to give, we treasure you so much
Our Barry Gibb
The chance of love shows you how to love somebody
Islands in the stream that strive it's such a shame
Be who you are, oh teacher, run wild it's your life story
Letting go is never easy, you have had your share, you felt the pain
We've seen this too.
And now your brothers gone, you are not alone
I recently wrote a song called "Round The Sun". I was reflecting on Robin's passing and came up with this song almost accidentally in the style of the pre-Disco Bee Gees era.
I thought you might like to hear it. http://soundcloud.com It would be very interesting if I could get the real Barry Gibb to have a listen. I hope I have done that Bee Gees era some justice with the song.
I wish you continued success with your web page!
Sincerely,
Robert Orzechowski
Italian Bee Gees give tribute to The Bee Gees with shows in Holland.
Again The Egiziano Brothers came to visit The Netherlands to pay tribute to The Gibb Brothers.
The Italian Bee Gees did 2 shows, one in Limburg, a complete 2 hours show October 5th., and one in Overijsel on October 6th. (3 times 45 minutes during a covers festival event).
The audience was very enthusiastic and although many of them, specially during the very crowded performance in Overijsel, had never heard from the Italian brothers before,
they most of all loved their way of performing, like they mentioned to me: 'these boys play and sing The Bee Gees music with so much passion!!'
The Egiziano Brothers sent this message today to thank everyone:
Once again, we want to thank -with all our heart- our Dutch and German friends..!! Too many to mention them all, but THANK YOU for all your love and affection..
And thank you to let us feel at home, everywhere we are...
We are one, for ever..
The Italian Bee Gees
(October 8th. 2012)
Thanks friends, Marion / GSI
Rimburg show in Limburg photo by Monique Saaltink
in a very crowded bar Het Podium, Denekamp, Italian Bee Gees live, photo by L. van Herwijnen
To the Bee Gees...
http://lifepissedmeoff.blogspot.in
For all the inspiration and support you have been, it just can't be described in words.
I hope I am eligible in another lifetime to watch you perform live...
Italian Bee Gees News Massachusetts Musical Performed By Italian Bee Gees
It's confirmed now: The new and extensive Bee Gees musical tour called "Massachusetts", which has been announced some time ago to travel all over Germany in 2013 will be performed by Europe's Top Bee Gees Tribute band: The Italian Bee Gees!!!
They'll bring much more then a concert. It's going to be a musical journey through the lives of The Bee Gees; the three famous British Brothers Gibb
and this project will also be performed by three brothers.
Three Italian Brothers. Huge fans of The Bee Gees and singers of Europe's Top 1 Bee Gees tribute band: Italian Bee Gees.
The show tells the story of The Bee Gees, their life and career, with huge screens showing photos and videos, live music, dancing, singing etc. etc.
www.resetproduction.de.
Tourchedule and tickets:
www.resetproduction.de
After a huge German tour earlier this year and another tour through their home land Italy they have done this summer,
The Italian Bee Gees will be coming to Holland again in October before going on with planning more future concerts for later this year and next year etc.
October 5 and 6 the group will perform in Holland.
October 5th. Rimburg/Landgraaf (in Limburg at the German border)
Tickets: € 12.50 pre sale.
you can make your reservation at: info@mamagency.nl
After your reservation you can pay at the following account:
ING Bank (The Netherlands) account number 450 2226 of:
Gemeenschapshuis D'r Eck , Rimburg
(For foreign fans: for a bank transfer from abroad you'll also need the following codes: Iban: NL62INGBooo4502226
Bic: INGBNL2A).
Or pay € 17.50 at the venue, the day of the concert. You can also pre order your tickets at the following addresses:
Cafe d'r Eck, Brugstraat 16, phone: 0455321135
Rimburgerhoeve, Rimburgerweg 176, phone: 0455324899
Cafe de Rotonde, Hoostraat 193, phone 0455315633
October 6th. Denekamp ( in Overijssel, also at the border with Germany), details and ticket sales at : www.denekampundercover.nl
Enjoy: Europe's No.1 Tribute To The Bee Gees !!!
Together with The Italian Bee Gees we're going to enjoy an evening of wonderful Gibb music and pay tribute to Maurice, Robin and Andy.
This way we hope being able to help Barry keeping the Gibb music alive for a very long future.
Are you coming too?
Davide Egiziano of The Italian Bee Gees:
" I want to personally and publicly thank each and everyone for the many messages received after the concert in Paola ... we hope to always deserve friends like you.. ".
My Love For Barry, Robin and their family
Story by a fan: written in April 2012
it's hard writing at a time like this with dear Rob the way he is...but here goes.......
I have always found the Gibbs to be the most humble and giving of guys.
Considering who they are and the legendary status, they are so down to earth and at times it seems to me, almost shocked by the love showered onto them by their millions of fans.
I have lived in Manchester all my life and have a friend who lives at no 31 Keppel Road.
It send shivers down my spine every time I drive down it... I always stop at no 51... and try to imagine the 3 boys "causing mayhem".(lol)
I have met them on many occasions The sliver heart award which was held here in Manchester a few years ago felt like a real homecoming.
Me and my wife have been to The Prebendal on many occasions and Robin has always made us feel so welcome. I have a Guitar Robin has signed here at home as well.
I have appeared in may Hollywood shows such as Scrubs and How I Met Your Mother and have mixed with the stars, to be honest nothing bothers me about it but when I am in the presence of Barry and Robin am in total awe.
We travelled to the Love and Hope ball this year for the first time, it was unbelievable.
Ended up meeting Dick Ashby in Miami on our first day there and he, after seeing how mad I was about The Gibbs, told me that he was going to get me into the sound check.
Though it would be on Saturday morning and so we had a day spare so me and my wife drove the 380 miles up to Orlando to go to our fave place which is Universal studios.
Parked up the car and as we got to the main gates we got a text from Dick: "its today p.m. and I have got you in".....ohhh no.... took one look at the wife got straight back in the car and drove the 380 miles back!
On the way, got to excited, took a ramp onto the freeway too fast and spun out. Just missed the central reservation by inches and when we stopped spinning all we could see is the oncoming traffic coming towards up, so quickly spun it back the right was round and once I got my composite back drove to Miami.
Barry made time to meet us before and after the sound check. I told him we almost didn't make it on the account of the near miss on the freeway.
I think he was more freaked out than us, he said "OH NO.... I am nervous enough as it is" (lol).
We took photos with him.
We went to the Love and Hope Ball. I ended up with a guitar signed by Barry and will treasure it forever. Had fun and games trying to get it back to the UK. No way was I letting it go in cargo so carried it as hand luggage.
The guys on Delta put it in the same cupboard as the captains coats to keep it safe, that was nice of them.!!
The biggest thrill of the night is when Barry mentioned me and my wife by name!!! that we shall never ever forget. So sad that I had my camera off at the time to save battery.
Luckily for me someone posted the video on YouTube. www.youtube.com (its at 4.05).
People came rushing over to us " did you hear that?" oh yes... We did UNBELIEVABLE .
Though the contacts and friends we made during our few days there we were also invited to the Hard rock sound check as well, here is a video I did : www.youtube.com
that was an amazing concert, here is the intro I recorded: www.youtube.com
It was a truly amazing 9 days, to top it all off, on the last day I gave dear Linda the photo of me and Barry that I had developed and left it with him together with my address.
2 weeks after I got home it arrived here signed by Barry "thanks us for coming ,,see you again soon... love Barry x"
that was so sweet of him. Had a nice chat with Stephen, Linda and Ali as well during our days there. Will never forget how good these people have been to us.
Easy to see why they are so loved to this day by so many from across the globe!!
God bless the Gibb family
Ash. (copyright story and photos: Ash)
Pet Shop Boys tribute to Robin Gibb
Most obviously in 2012 PSB covered the Bee Gee's classic 1968 hit
"I Started a Joke" in tribute to Robin Gibb who had passed away earlier in the
year. They had previously used the original Bees Gees recording personal favorite of theirs as the "audience leaving" music for one of their tours.
Chris has said that the Saturday Night Fever soundtrack album dominated
by the Bee Gees was a major influence on him inspiring his love of dance music. He reiterated this fact (specifically citing the song "Night Fever")
during the week of April 13 2009 on BBC Radio 2's Tracks of My Years a weekly feature that asks artists to choose songs that "changed their life.
"And when asked by Johnny Marr in an interview "What band would you like to have been in for a day"?
Chris replied: "the Bee Gees when they were doing Saturday Night Fever in Miami."
Blue Weaver a keyboardist who spent much of the seventies working with the Bee Gees also worked with the Boys on their first album "Please"
as well as some of their earliest live performances.
The PSB song "Nightlife" is something of an homage to the Brothers Gibb and
is heavily influenced by them. In fact Chris and Neil submitted a request for them to provide backing vocals for the track but received no reply.
Influences can go both ways: the Bee Gees publicly acknowledged that their
1993 track "Fallen Angel" was heavily influenced by PSB.
The group The Italian Bee Gees is touring again through Italy in August and September.
Here are a number of confirmed dates:
August 3 Giugrà, Loc. Pescarosa, Ostuni (BR)
August 4 Cosenza, lungofiume Festival
August 11 Paola, Loc. Fosse Cancelled
August 14 Sant'Andrea sullo Jonio (CZ)
August 16 Forte Village Resort, Pula (CA)
August 18 Vintage Event, Sassoferrato, Ancona
August 19 San Sisto dei Valdesi, CS
August 29 Corallo beach, Ostia (RM), private party
September 8 Paola (CS) piazza
September 17 Buonvicino, Cosenza
Next to that there are plans for shows in Holland and Germany later this year and / or next year. We'll keep you posted!!
www.fratelliegiziano.it
Meeting Barry and Robin a few times
I've been lucky enough to meet both brothers a few times. I was at Robin's home in London a couple of times and I must tell you,
He is such a great guy. So kind and down to earth. His wife Dwina is also very cool. She gave me a quick tour of the church where Robin has a ton of gold records hanging on the walls.
What a great afternoon. I also met him in Aruba and in Miami. I met Barry twice, both times in Miami. I went to Middle Ear Studio and knocked on the door,
Steven Gibb came out and I explained to him that I was on my way to the airport and it would mean the world to me if I could shake Barry's hand and tell him how much there music has meant to me.
Steven told me that Barry was busy but he would ask him, sure enough here comes Barry larger than life, he stands about 6 foot tall. He took some pictures with me and gave me a hug.
What a day that was!!! When I got home I mailed him the photos of us together, he signed them and mailed them right back within a week.
What a great guy!! I'm heading to the Love and Hope Ball this Sunday where Barry will be performing and I don't mind telling you I'm so nervous!!!
Then a few days later I'll be front row at his solo concert at the Hard Rock in Hollywood. I'll send you some more pics of him. Great web site and thanks for all the info and time you spend on it.
CHEERS!! Ronnie Soto.
The Love And Hope Ball was great. I was just a few feet from Barry. The concert was amazing!!!!! When Barry came out, the crowd went crazy.
After he did the first song (Jive Talking) everyone gave him a standing ovation. You could see that he was over come with emotion.
He sounded great. He did speak about his 3 brothers and got emotional. He asked us if we would pray for Robin to get better.
All in all the night was something that I will never forget. I have a tattoo of The Spirits Having Flown logo and I took a picture of it to show Barry. He autographed the 8x10 for me.
Ron S.
Tribute Song For Robin
Hi Marion,
Allow me to introduce myself. I'm Jimmy Stanley, a UK singer/songwriter and tribute entertainer to Robin Gibb.
I am the former member of the Bee Gees tribute band 'Stayin' Alive UK, which you have featured before in your news column.
I have been fortunate enough to meet the Bee Gees on a few occasions after being a competitor on the popular light entertainment Granada TV programme 'Stars In Their Eyes' as Robin singing 'Massachusetts' at the time.
I am writing to let you know that upon hearing the sad news of Robin's passing a month ago, I felt compelled to write a song about his amazing legacy and his brave battle with cancer.
Called 'Reflections Of Robin' I am hoping that I can reach as many Bee Gees fans out there as possible with your help of posting news about the release.
My intentions were to make them all aware this brand new song is going out on itunes, Amazon mp3, Spotify, Zunes and many other download sites as from Monday with a promotional video out soon.
As far as I'm aware, this is the only original tribute song written so far to the great man himself and I hope to distribute 50% of the proceeds to the Rebeccah Children's
Hospice & Bomber Command Memorial also as a gesture of goodwill for Robin's family and friends, should the sales for the release be substantial enough to warrant such a donation.
As you will know, these are two causes very close to Robin's heart.
The Bee Gees Tales of the Brothers Gibb Updated Edition [Paperback]
The definitive biography, now updated to include the tragic death of Robin Gibb in May of this year.
Most famous for having created the soundtrack to Saturday Night Fever , the ultimate disco movie, Barry, Robin and Maurice Gibb have also written countless hits,
both for themselves and others and this new edition contains a list of every song written and recorded by the brothers.
This extensively researched biography covers four decades from their early days in Manchester and the lsle of Man before the family emigrated to Australia and returned to London find fame in 1967
with Massachusetts , the first of many hits. Over the years the Bee Gees career has mixed triumph and tragedy in equal measure as well as celebrating their success
this biography covers their doldrum years, the divorces and the tragic death of Robin, Maurice and Andy Gibb. Incorporates a complete listing of every song written or recorded by the Gibbs.
Recently GSI received several mails about a young boy who saved his mothers' life with the help of a Bee Gees song.
Hi Marion,
George is the young son of a close friend of our cousin's. The article is self-explanatory.
I was trying to think of what I could do to acknowledge George and thought how wonderful a commendation of some sort from the Bee Gees would make his day. If it wasn't for the song and George's quick thinking and bravery, his mother would not be alive today.
I so hope that some token of acknowledgement from the Brother's Gibb can be had.
Gratefully,
Pat P.
Hello,
Last week, a friend of mine, Claire Hamilton, a professor at the University of Massachusetts, went into cardiac arrest and her 13 year old son George saved her life by performing CPR to the beat of "Stayin Alive."
He had remembered seeing an episode of "The Office" where they did just that.
Marilyn G.
I've been an avid fan of the Bee Gees since I first heard them sing New York Mining Disaster 1941 back in 1967.
I took the Long Island Railroad to a Bee Gees concert at Forest Hills Tennis stadium in Queens, NY in August of 1968.
The opening act was a group called Spanky and Our Gang. At the time I think the Bee Gees had released Bee Gees 1st,
Horizontal and Idea and sang selections from those albums.
Over the next 40 years I amassed a huge collection of records, cassettes, videos, magazines, and anything else related to the Gibb brothers both as a group as well as solo singers.
I saw them perform at a roller skating rink on Long Island on the downside of their popularity (they were one of 4 acts that evening) to a full house at Madison Square Garden at the height of the Spirits Tour.
Although I followed the Gibbs closely, and still do, I never really met them prior to just a few years ago.
Now here's where Maurice comes in.
The Bee Gees were going to perform near Rockefeller Center in New York City for the Today Show. The performance would be on a side street between two skyscrapers.
When I arrived, there was quite a crowd so I hung back and watched them sing from a distance.
After the performance, I noticed they ducked into a building and I followed them.
Inside they were having photos taken with I imagine execs from NBC TV. I motioned to them
and Dick Ashby came over to me.
I told him how much I wanted to meet the Gibbs but he said they were ready to head to the
airport and he needed to get them out of the building as quickly as possible.
As they left, I quickly shook Barry's hand and as I put my hand out to Maurice, he stopped in his tracks.
I shook his hand, told him I was 54 years old and that I had been following the Gibbs since I was 17 years old. He looked at me and said," Thanks for telling me that, I really appreciate it"...and off he went.
My second encounter was at the A&E Live By Request concert in New York.
I was running a trade publication that covered the television industry and knew all the top A&E execs. So naturally I was able to secure a pass to the concert for me and my wife.
Since it was a VIP pass, we were escorted to our seats. I told the usher I had never met the Bee Gees in all the years I followed them.
He left and came back with two backstage passes.
Wow! Was I finally going to meet the group that was such an integral part of my life?
After the concert we went backstage.
My wife suggested we stand by the open door that they would come through but I insisted on hanging out with my colleagues from A&E.
We were all the way in the back of the room.
Before I say anything further I wanted to mention when Billboard magazine published a 35th anniversary salute to the Bee Gees, I wrote a feature on collecting Gibb material.
So, finally the Bee Gees enter the room, Barry first, followed by Robin. They looked at the crowd, and decided to leave, no doubt because they were probably beat after being in New York all week on a press tour, TV appearances, etc.
As Barry and Robin leave, my hopes of ever meeting them are dashed. However, who continues into the room? Maurice.
As he approaches me I hand him a copy of my Billboard article and tell him I wrote it.
He looks at it and says to me "that's you man?". I then ask if he'll allow us to take his picture.
He says, "Absolutely" and puts his arm around my waist.
My wife snaps a photo which now hangs proudly on the wall of my office.
He was gone not too long thereafter. Doubtful I'll ever meet Barry or Robin but my two chance encounters with Maurice will remain forever in my memory as a time I truly cherish.
Larry Oliver
Bee Gees Meeting
Some Dutch fans have made plans to organize another BG Meeting in The Netherlands.
Date: Saturday, March 17th. 2012
Location: Restaurant Sprok, Waaldijk 9, 6681 KJ Bemmel, (near Nijmegen).
There's even a possibility to book a room at the location for € 27,50 per person per night.
www.sprok.nl
Program of the day:
Opening 14.45 with coffee and a delicious surprise.
For dinner there will be a warm and cold buffet starting at 17.30. The dinner will be closed with an ice buffet.
In between there's time for a chat and maybe a quiz or lottery, a drink and perhaps a dance?!
Music is taken care off but if you have special requests or ideas, please let us know!
The costs are 40 Euros a person. Please let us know before February 2nd if you are coming.
Write to: jollie_1967@hotmail.com if you are interested in visiting the meeting and to get addition information, or when you have questions and suggestions etc.
Hope to see you: Marcel de Wit en Jolanda Baltus
Een paar Nederlandse fans is van plan weer een BG Meeting te organiseren
Datum : zaterdag 17 maart 2012
Lokatie : Restaurant Sprok, Waaldijk 9, 6681 KJ Bemmel
(bij Nijmegen en 2,6 km. lopen vanaf station Nijmegen-Lent).
Deze lokatie biedt ook de mogelijkheid om te overnachten voor € 27,50 p.p.p.n. Indien gewenst: vermelden bij aanmelding!!
www.sprok.nl/
Deze meeting staat open voor alle Bee Gees Fans en Vrienden, in Nederland maar ook zeker daarbuiten!!
Programma ziet er voorlopig als volgt uit:
Aanvang / ontvangst vanaf 14.45 met Koffie en wat lekkers
Warm / koud buffet start rond 17.30 en wordt afgesloten met een ijsbuffet met voor elk wat wils.
Tussen de koffie en het buffet is er voldoende tijd om bij te kletsen, persoonlijke ervaringen te delen met de anderen, een kwisje of een loterij, een drankje en wellicht zelfs wel een dansje.
Muziek is voldoende aanwezig, maar heb je iets speciaals wat je graag zou willen horen, zou willen zien laat dat dan weten, dan kijken we om ons heen of we iets kunnen regelen.
Omdat we met zaalhuur te maken hebben willen we graag dat men zich aanmeld voor 02-02-2012! De kosten zijn € 40,00 per persoon. Bij voldoende aanmeldingen, wordt zaalhuur á € 7,00 pp omgezet in 4 consumptiebonnen per persoon!
Wij spreken van voldoende aanmeldingen bij 30 personen!!
Aanmelden: voor 02-02-2012 via email : jollie_1967@hotmail.com eventueel onder vermelding van speciale dieet wensen!!
Voor vragen en suggesties kun je ook terecht op dit email adres.
Op 03-02-2012 krijgt een ieder bericht of het doorgaat of niet. Hou vooral je mail na 20.00 uur in de gaten!! Betalen is afronden van de aanmelding.
Over de betaalgegevens berichten we iedereen op 03 februari.
Het is wel gewenst in verband met de zaal, dat betaling direct na het lezen van de mail van 3 februari 2012 wordt voldaan!!
Wij hopen op een gezellig drukke meeting!! Marcel de Wit en Jolanda Baltus
Might any of you have a clean image of the "Spirits" logo that appeared on the tail of the "Spirits" Tour Jet? It's the three heads morphed into one tornado like image!? I've found little thumbnails that are foggy and blurry but nothing large and clear.
I am getting a tattoo of that image in 2 weeks and my artist was hoping for a cleaner image to use as his guide for his interpretation! I've attached the image I have. Any help?
Dennis Bryon
Dennis (of The Bee Gees Band) got married (December 25th.) to Kayte Strong his musical partner for the last ten years. This Christmas is a very special one for him and Kayte.
Congratulations!!
Dennis Bryon and his bride Kayte Strong
Marion / GSI
Hello!
I recently published this A Cappella cover of "How Deep Is Your Love",
which I sang with 3 friends of mine (I'm the guy to the far right with
the Afro):
www.youtube.com
None of us 4 ever met in person: we all live in different places and
did everything through the internet.!!
I am hoping you'll like our cover enough to share it with your fans
and followers. I'd be grateful if you could.
Cheers,
Julien
From Geoff Bridgford
Hi Marion,
You may have already seen this clip, it's been doing the rounds on Facebook, but thought I would send it to you anyway.
I had the opportunity to work with award winning Australian filmmaker Sharon Shostak on a video for the song "Ordinary Man" off my new album "Another World". You can check out the video on my You Tube channel.
A few other songs off the album have also been uploaded. In the last few months I've had many requests to upload some of my older recordings from the GB Archives as well as some songs from a trio I had back in the early
nineties and also some of the instrumental music I've recorded over the years, so I've responded to those requests via my You Tube channel and more will be coming soon.
Nice to see Barry and Robin together, I read that Robin had recently been in hospital? All the best to you.
Dear BrothersGibb.org,
I just wanted to say that I love your website. I am a near teen and I think your website has really helped me learn a lot more about the Bee Gees.
I love them a lot more now since I have been on your website. I just love everything about the website. How it is set up and just all of the sections, and all of the info.
I love the newsletter part, it can really keep me up to date with things. Just like I wouldn't have known that Robin was selling his house in Florida. I just LOVE everything about the site. Bye
Aiyana S.
Hi I'm Janet. I have the album 'IDEA' for sale, which Barry signed the back of for me.
Interested? see GSI Advertisement
Barry and Robin rented a flat in Amen Corner EC4 London. This was opposite
where I worked I would often talk to them out the window, and meet up downstairs. Maurice and Lulu would turn up sometimes. One time Barry and Linda came back from holiday and she had caught some bug that had bought her out in a bad rash.
Sorry there are no photos of that period.
I was so very shy back in those days and was to embarrassed to say much when I was close up to them. One of my friends did take photos, but unfortunately we are not in touch.
Robin asked if he could come and look at the printing machines that he saw us working.
We said we would have to ask our supervisor for permission to let him in. Guess what she said NO.
We begged her but she would not change her mind. That was also embarrassing to have to tell Robin that.
We also saw Maurice and Lulu when they came to visit. They had a lovely big huge white fluffy dog don't know what type.
There was a lift up to there Penthouse and we got in it and went to the flat when the doors opened there were carpets on the wall. We were asked in but got scared
And came back down { what a regret }
With regards, Jan
Are you: U.K. Number One Bee Gees Fan?
Knickerbockerglory are a TV production company who are making a new show about Superfans.
We are looking for The Bee Gees number 1 fan in the UK to take part in the show.
Contact us at alex@knickerbockerglory.tv with pictures of memorabilia and a contact telephone number!
Thanks, we look forward to hearing from you, Alex Warman
The Roxborogh Report
I'm Tim Roxborogh,
an award winning radio announcer, music programmer, journalist and broadcasting lecturer with 11 years experience in Auckland, New Zealand.
I'm also a die-hard music fan, cricketer, amateur civil rights historian, world traveller and wannabe tennis legend.
Visit my website: The Roxborogh Report which brings you some of the best music of all time, social commentaries and travel adventures from around the world.
This month a special because of the 65th birthday of Barry Gibb
http://roxboroghreport.blogspot.com
you can contact me by emailing tim@roxborogh.com
greetings Tim
The Gibb Family Friendship Club
Fan Social Gathering - 2011
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
Hollywood, Florida, USA
October 14 & 15, 2011
If interested in attending this event, contact Brenda Cornwell at b.cornwell@insightbb.com or visit the Gibb Family Friendship Club Reunion facebook page.
If you can't make it but would like to order the Support Pack, have photos or other items to donate or loan the event, please also contact Brenda Cornwell.
We will hold a silent auction to raise money for the Gibb Family Foundation, I'm working on a timeline display.
Four palm trees out of five: that park is going platinum
I very much enjoyed Jim W. Harper's "Park Patrol" review of Maurice Gibb Memorial Park in Miami Beach ("A Harmonious Place," July 2011). I have been living in Miami for more than seven years and had never seen, or even heard of, that park.
Although I was not around when the Bee Gees were in style, I would like to visit this waterfront hideaway in remembrance of this Rock and Roll Hall of Fame pop star.I found the mosaic contributed to Maurice interesting.
I would have never guessed that the yellow, red, and blue pieces of glass signified peace, love, and tranquility. I also thought the carved piece of granite disguising "Mo's" name was quite creative.
The view of the bay from the seawall looks impressive as well.
This park certainly seems like somewhere my lover and I can get away, relax, and enjoy the beautiful bay.Since Harper is probably the only park critic in the nation,
I will take his word for it and believe that this park deserves four palm trees out of five. By the pictures and description, I am convinced this is somewhere I would like to visit.
Barry's exceptional relation with the guitar was the key to success.
Thank goodness that army guy that taught him how to play,
taught him to tune and play in dropped D tuning.
This way, finger settings for chords are in general, more simplified and you sound differently from all other bands. But the major bonus was, he was
taught a full pallet, the full scope of all delicate, rare and great sounding chords.
If you read in the Beatles bio, they searched for people on the streets to
expand their guitar knowledge and worshipped the guy that showed them the
(pretty mainstream) C7 chord. While Barry from day 1 organically tried to
incorporate also diminished chords and maj7, minor6 and "plain 6" chords,
building melodies around them, which made the Bee Gees songs stand out.
If you play the classical way on guitar, it usually takes you a considerable amount of time and knowledge to play like Barry did from the beginning on.
It's interesting to see, when they filmed the development of "Just In Case", Maurice takes lead in suggesting the way it should go in the end, on
keyboard, while Barry tries a fuller scope on guitar, not wanting to exclude possibilities too quickly for a grand finale.
The point is, in the end it pays off to let Barry try and toy around some more. Cause the spectrum of his chords on guitar is wider than Maurice could match on his keyboard, there is evidence for that.
Hi Marion
There's a brief bio on my website with some historical pics and info about the making of my album. I love the feeling music brings to my life.
The selection of Bee Gee pics on my site are some that probably haven't been seen by many people.
They come from an interesting period in the Bee Gees career and although it has been well documented as a rather "topsy turvy" period for them, it was still an amazing and creative time.
They returned to Australia for their first tour after having left in 1967 and the concerts were incredible for the Australian audiences and the group.
To walk out on stage and be able to play such a string of international hits was amazing, it showed the true artistic talent the brothers had as songwriters and performers.
I have an actual copy of the set list running order from that first tour back in July 1971 (40 years on)
NEW YORK MINING DISASTER, TO LOVE SOMEBODY, REALLY AND SINCERELY, EVERY SECOND EVERY MINUTE, LAY IT ON ME
(An acoustic Medley, JINGLE JANGLE, MORNING OF MY LIFE) HOLIDAY, I CAN'T SEE NOBODY, WORDS, HOW CAN YOU MEND A BROKEN HEART,
I STARTED A JOKE, I'VE GOTTA GET A MESSAGE TO YOU, MASSACHUSETTS, LONELY DAYS and SPICKS AND SPECKS.
It was also during the '71, '72 period that the Bee Gees had their first number one single in the USA
"How can you mend a broken heart" and that was another amazing experience and time for them.
I'm glad I've been able to share some of my pics from that era, it truly was a magical time for the Bee Gees, but the best was yet to come.
Matt Bonelli: Former Bee Gee bassist teaching a new generation of musicians
COPYRIGHT:
WWW.MIAMIHERALD.COM
BY BECCA GRIESEMER
SOUTH FLORIDA NEWS SERVICE
MATT BONELLI BRINGS TO HIS CLASSROOM SOMETHING MANY CANNOT: STORIES OF PERFORMING LIVE WITH THE BEE GEES ACROSS THE GLOBE. HE STILL PLAYS IN A BAND
AT CHRISTY'S IN CORAL GABLES.
Every now and then, Matt Bonelli tells his students about the 12 years he spent touring with the Bee Gees.
Playing for audiences of 70,000 fans for the popular pop-and-disco band was a culture shock for Bonelli, who had gone from playing local hotels to concerts around the world.
One of Bonelli's favorite Bee Gees memories is from a concert at a racetrack in Ireland, where he imagined the crowd would be sitting on lounge chairs and blankets, just like in South Florida.
"When I came on the stage, there were 40,000 Irish people standing shoulder to shoulder, and they sang every word of every song for two hours," said Bonelli, now the jazz coordinator at Miami Dade College.
"It was completely amazing." Bonelli said his musical education continues through many of his students. "In order for me to teach people how to play music, I still need to be playing music," said Bonelli, 56.
"I still learn every time I play the bass line."Bonelli, who teaches classes, oversees ensembles and directs jazz and combo bands, said his young musicians' natural talents often surprise him.Derek Frank, 37, studied with Bonelli when he was teaching at the University in Miami in the mid-1990s.
Today, he plays bass full time in Los Angeles, has toured with the Dancing with the Stars band and recently released his debut solo album."There are some things that teachers taught me that I don't really use now," Frank said. "The things that I worked on with Matt are what I'm using in situations to make a living playing. "Bonelli's other famed alumni include Brian Yale from Matchbox Twenty and Ed Toth, a drummer for the Doobie Brothers, who graduated from the University of Miami in 1994. Bonelli received his bachelor's and master's degrees at the University of Miami in jazz performance and has taught at UM,
Miami Dade College and Florida International University.
He credits his bass education to his early days. In 1972-73, he played in the Fontainebleau basement during burlesque reviews. The next year, he was playing at the neighboring Eden Roc alongside Carmen Lundy, now an acclaimed jazz musician.
"I remember laughing a lot and having a great time on tour," Lundy said. "He's just one of those nice guys who is a pleasure to work with. "The Bee Gees and Bonelli were unexpectedly connected in 1993, when the three brothers - Maurice, his twin brother Robin, and Barry Gibb - were auditioning for a temporary bassist.
Bonelli landed the job after auditioning in the former Middle Ear Studios in Miami Beach.Bonelli joked that being with the band gave him "maybe 16" minutes of fame."If there were Bee Gees fans around that had seen my face on the Internet, they would maybe recognize me, but I could pretty much walk around unnoticed," Bonelli said. "The Bee Gees]were not able to do that. " The touring ended after Maurice Gibb died in January 2003 at age 53 after complications from a twisted intestine.
The brothers stopped touring as the Bee Gees in honor of Maurice Gibb's memory, but Bonelli performed off and on for Barry and Robin Gibb in the studio and at local venues until 2005,
when teaching became his main focus.He played bass on the Bee Gees live album, One Night Only, and on the final Bee Gees album, This Is Where I Came In, in 2001.
Bonelli said his students would find out about his band days with the Bee Gees through the Internet and word of mouth -and start questioning him about it.
"To me, it was just one of many things that I did," said Bonelli, who would fly to concerts and make it back on campus in time for class.
"Sometimes I was more tired than others, but it wasn't like I was doing it because I had to," Bonelli said. "I was doing it because I wanted to."
Geoff Bridgford still loving music. copyright Geoff Bridgford
Geoff Bridgford
Marion GSI: I asked myself - how is Geoff doing - and recently I've mailed him.
Geoff: Yeah all is good with me, I'm still fully involved in music and have been since my Bee Gee days in the early seventies.
I love the feeling and experience music brings to my life. I'm currently in the final stages of recording songs for a first ever GB CD release (better late than never) what started out as writing some songs for my kids for posterity became a pretty cool record of feelings.
It will be up online in cyberspace around mid June. I just took a look at the GSI website, was nostalgic, a lot of fond feelings and memories of working with Barry, Robin and Maurice surfaced.
FrontCover "Another World"
Geoff Bridgfords new CD "Another World" will be released on June 30th, 2011. His official website, www.geoffbridgford.com will be launched the same day. Purchase options will be available from the site.
Join the Mailing List now, at: www.geoffbridgford.com to receive a free song download and release updates. Check out song samples at http://www.myspace.com/geoffbridgford
Marion / GSI (with special thanks: Geoff Bridgford)
There's someone who recently wrote me the following:
'My mom was in the music business for years in the 1970-1990. She has lots of memorabilia for lots of music artist.
As I was clearing out some of her stuff I found a White Satin tour Jacket for The Bee Gees. I would like to see that the jacket goes to some real Bee Gees fan.
This jacket is in mint condition. It has been stored for many years. I have no clue as to the value so to anyone interested: I will except the Best Offer'.
Recently several fans asked me to post some information about
The Gibb Family Foundation.
So I got in touch with Beverly Burke.
Beverly Burke:
'The Foundation is still in existence and still at the same place as it's always been (Dade Community Foundation) which has now been re-named as The Miami Foundation.
It still supports the same causes as always, mainly the DRI (Diabetes Research Institute) as well as the American Heart Association etc. but mainly the DRI, as that is charity that the family tends to support most.
There is not a website for the Gibb Family Foundation. The most recent contribution by the Foundation was to the DRI in February in honor of Maurice's Anniversary (January) and Andy's Anniversary (March).
We tend to use February in order to honor them both.
The address for the Foundation is as follows:
Gibb Family Foundation c/o The Miami Foundation, 200 South Biscayne Boulevard, Suite 505, Miami, FL 33131-5330 U.S.A.
The Miami Foundation (formerly The Dade Community Foundation) has over-seen and run the day to day operations of the Gibb Family Foundation since it's inception,
shortly after Andy's death in 1988. They handle all of the donations and disbursements for the Foundation. At that time, the foundation was known as The Andy Gibb Memorial Foundation.
Shortly after Maurice's death, we met with Barry and Yvonne to discuss changing the name to encompass Maurice as well, we all decided on The Gibb Family Foundation.
Though we are not actively fundraising at the moment, the foundation is open and accepts donations from all over the world.'
Marion / GSI (thanks: Beverly Burke)
Hi, Many years ago my mother was a photographer and did many weddings in her career. She had a shop at that time in Paradise Street, West Bromwich in the West Midlands.
The shop was called BB Studios and Bridlewear. After the event she told me she had photographed the wedding of a cousin of the Bee Gees and that Barry Gibb who was then my heart throb (his posters decorated my bedroom from the age of eleven) was there and she photographed him with all the family.
As you can imagine my heart broke when she told me. I was so disappointed and hurt the fact that she did not trust me and didn't take me along to help and arrange the brides dress for the photographs as she had done many times before.
I will never forget just how close I was of meeting the man of my dreams at the tender age of, if I remember correctly 13 years. I was born in 1955 so I think it must have been around 1967/8. Although I can't remember the exact date.
The hurt and disappointment has always stayed with me, daft I know! but I just felt compelled to write.
The negatives were sent to the family along with the wedding photographs so I wasn't even allowed a glimpse.
Kind Regards, Susan.
Robin and Robin John photograph - Charlie Gray
Sunday Times article
Robin Gibb and his son Robin John talk about their career and the project they are working on together now.
Hi Marion,
We are happy to start celebrating this year with a new fan meeting. We will share videos,music,playful activities,memories and for sure our love for this timeless band!!
All our love for the 4 Brothers Gibb!!!!
Date:March 5th. 2011,Time: 04:00 PM, Place:Chemichaux
Address:1296 Maipu Ave, City: Vicente Lòpez,Buenos Aires
Country:Argentina
Thank you, Bernardo Peregrina,Turquesa Pigott,Patricia Martìnez,Maria Fernanda Leon mfleonster@gmail.com
Bee Gees tribute night, Liverpool
To Whom it may concern,
I'm from The Greenroom in Liverpool, 78 Duke Street
Ricky Tomlinsons Cabaret Lounge.
We are hosting a Bee Gees tribute night on Saturday 26th February performed by a fantastic tribute act.
Ricky Tomlinson will be hosting this event along with other special guests.
Our website: www.thegreenroomliverpool.com
Thanks Jessica,
Public Relations, The Greenroom Liverpool
Hi GSI
I am really hoping to be in Europe this coming year. I have wanted to come for ages, but have not been able to make it, here's hoping in 2011.
Cheers
Vince
Vince Melouney
The Netherlands: Bee Gees Land
The Italian Bee Gees Show in the Netherlands (Hardenberg) is coming... it will
be the same day as Robin's Concert in Amsterdam (www.eventim.nl), so The Netherlands will be The Bee Gees Land on October 22nd !!!
Other Italian Bee Gees Shows in The Netherlands are planned for next year.
The Netherlands is in our heart... we feel at home in your wonderful country!
Vince Melouney: The ex Bee Gee is still performing and writing.
Vince will be performing again September 11th. The first half of the show features songs from both the Bee Gees and The Aztecs, but done on acoustic guitar with a backing track.
"I do them my own way, they are my own arrangements," he said. For the second half he will strap on the electric guitar and play some full throttle rock 'n roll.
Vince recently played to 800 people at Twin Towns and said he will be gigging his way back to Melbourne and heading off to Europe next year.
The show at the Commercial Hotel in Casino on September 11th kicks off from 8pm and entry is $15.
www.echonews.com.au
Bee Gees in The Seventies
A couple of years back Barry was interviewed on an episode of "The Sixties", a documentary on the artists and music of that decade.
This year a similar show by the same team called "The Seventies" airs and Sept 4, the episode on 1977 and disco music was aired with Robin as one of the artists being interviewed.
For those interested: the full episode (for Swedish TV) should be available to view online at: http://svtplay.se
The Bee Gees section featuring Robin as well as some recaps from the Barry interview for "The Sixties" show start at 3:25 and continues for about 15 minutes.
After that the show bring up disco and Robin appears once more before they go on to interview Tina Charles.
To GSI
I have just completed a book called "Pop Goes The Weasel: Rock'N'Roll Off The Record" that features behind-the-scene stories of me working with some of the world's biggest rock/pop stars of all time. One of the chapters features a story about the Bee Gees coming to Toronto to perform at Maple Leaf Gardens in 1980. I was their label rep in Toronto for Polygram Inc. which distributed RSO Records in Canada.
I'd be interested in having this chapter posted to The Bee Gees website and would love to hear any comments on my Facebook site for the book. The book is slated to be published in early 2011.
Thanks and hope you enjoy the chapter, Gerry Young, Toronto
My name is Craig Yeaman. in 1969 I was a missionary for the Mormon church stationed in Scotland.
I knocked on the door of one Betty Lawrie on Meadowpark Street in Glasgow one day, was welcomed in, made several visits back over the next few weeks, taught her the tenets of the LDS church and had the privilege of helping her join the church...to which she remained faithful until her passing. who was Betty Lawrie?
Betty was Marie Lawrie's mother Marie is known better to most of the world as Lulu!
I have some wonderful pictures of Lulu and her family I took at a Christmas celebration in the Lawrie home while I was in Scotland and some of those pictures include my friend Maurice Gibb, who was married to Lulu at the time.
My family and I just returned from a trip back to Scotland/England just this week and just about succeeded in hooking up with Lulu while there.
Unfortunately our schedules didn't quite match up and we missed getting to see her at the last minute. anyway, I hope what I have might be of some value.
My family and I are and always have been huge Bee Gees fans which really took off for me when I had the great pleasure of meeting Maurice all those many years ago.
thanks again for taking a look at this.I think the family will appreciate what I have and maybe I can help them add a few pictures to their collections that will be of some value as remembrance of the kind, down to earth, "real" person Maurice was.
He and I had a great visit that evening and came away good friends. that meeting has remained a foundation for me all these years as I've enjoyed my own passion for music.
Craig Yeaman
See below some of the photos Craig took. He also sent them to the Lawrie family and just recently to the Gibb Family.
left: Craig Yeaman together with Maurice at the home of Lulu's parents.
all these photos were taken during Christmas.
right: Craig with Maurice and Lulu
left: Craig with Lulu and her mother Betty
right: A very special photo according to mother Betty as this one is the only photo of the entire Lawrie family with Mo in it.
( back row from left to right: Lulu's youngest brother, girlfriend of Billy, Lulu's brother Billy Lawrie, Lulu's father Eddie.
front row from left to right: Maurice, Lulu, Lulu's mother Betty, Lulu's sister Edwina).
To the Gibb Family:
I was watching the special on Biography of your brother Andy. And it brought back a very sweet, kind memory I had, of him!
Back in the early '80s, I use to live in Southern California, and was commissioned to do some book covers for an author, Winn Blevins, on Mountain Men historical stories. I was at a mountain man rendezvous, in the mountains, I think it was either Big Bear, of another spot. I had a trade blanket laid out, with beaded items, I had created: trade bead strands, necklaces, key chains, etc.
I was approached by a young man, and he picked out a number of items, turned to me, and said: "My manager will pay you." I asked: "And what does he manage?" To which he said: "well, you would probably know my brothers better, they are the Bee Gees....I'm Andy Gibb..."
Well, he about knocked me off my feet. He was so gentle, and kind, and unaffected! I didn't watch much TV at the time, so did not recognize him!
I just wanted to share that very short moment in time, with you! Having lost my Dad, who was my best friend...and basically not having any family left, small thoughts and events shared, about our loved ones, can bring back sweet memories, and feed our very souls!!
ALSO, don't write things off, strange little things, that happen... Without sounding "crazy"...my Dad has shown up many times since he left, to let me know, he is still "hanging around"... Actually saved my life about 3 times!!! And another, to let me know, the painting I'd just created, met his approval...all, kind of long stories...and all unexpected, at the time!!
I am so sorry for your losses...and of that of Maurice. Your family has truly been a blessing to the world! Thank you all, for your kindnesses and gentle ways!
Love, Betty (Live Well ... Laugh Often ... Love Much!!! )
Unique LP's of Saturday Night Fever
I'm a 68 year-old, semi-retired UK scientist who now lives in Medan, Sumatra, Indonesia.
I worked as a research scientist for BP Chemicals (part of British Petroleum) in the UK in the 1970's and, in the late 70's, I was responsible for the development of vinyls for manufacture of vinyl records.
I used to test my new materials at various companies in the UK that used to press records.
At one time, I produced a small quantity of vinyl pellets in a bright red colour and at that time, when I took a small bag of the experimental coloured vinyl to a customer in Leicester,
UK, they were pressing the double album, "Saturday Night Fever" which was top of the charts at that time.
The company was very busy pressing the normal black vinyls, but they pressed 10 sets for me in the red vinyl.
It was pure coincidence that the red of the vinyl was almost a perfect colour match for the small red bull on the label.
I kept 2 sets of the double album and I'm not sure what's happened to the other 8 or so - as it's now about 33 years ago.
No more records were pressed in that colour, so the red records are pretty unique. I attach 3 photos, but the colour in the photo is not quite as vivid as the actual colour.
The original white sleeves have yellowed but the folders are in pretty good shape. The 2 sets of records should be in good shape as I doubt if they've been played more than a couple of times and that would have been 30 years ago !
I'm sure that these are now collectors items, and if any of you is interested please get in touch. People may also be able to reach me on Skype and that way, they could see the records up close.
In answer to many fan mails I recently received with questions about BarryGibb.com
I can tell you I just received a mail from Darin Butler (who's taking care of Barry's website) telling me he's now with Barry in Miami finishing the content and store product of www.BarryGibb.com so it's very close to being ready now and also a chat will be announced on the site soon according to Darin.
Marion / GSI
Italian Bee Gees in French TV Show
The Italian Bee Gees report about their performance in the French TV Show:
"The TV Show on French TV "TF1", 'Qui sera le meilleur ce soir' last Saturday
April 17th was GREAT! We won our "Band Battle" against The Beatles tribute
(Four very nice boys from Essex-London called "like the Beatles").
In front of a jury composed by three famous French actors; Christine Bravo, Jean-Luc
Lemoine et Laurent Ournac and hosted by Christophe Dechavanne and Victoria
Silvstedt we (the Egiziano Brothers ) performed live: "Staying Alive" and "Night Fever" with the French TV Orchestra and the final score was:
Bee Gees -Beatles: 3 to 0.
It was a very fun game that gave us a great satisfaction and the consent of the French public. This is because the Bee Gees are very appreciated and loved in France!
The program was followed by six million viewers in France, Belgium and Switzerland".
More updates about the group:
The Italian Bee Gees have two confirmed shows in the Netherlands.
Next August 13th in Ulft at the Huntenpop-festival
and October 22nd in Hardenberg for the October-Fest.
The Italian Bee Gees in Paris
Italian Bee Gees represent Bee Gees Music in French TV show.
We mentioned before that the French TV is working on a TV talent show and they were looking for people performing with members of their family in various artistic categories such as dancers, magicians, singers, circus artists etc.
They hoped to find people playing Bee Gees music too.
We now have confirmation that The Italian Bee Gees will be part of the show and these three Italian brothers will represent the Bee Gees music in this talent show of Coyote TV.
The Italian Bee Gees: Pasquale, Walter and Davide Egiziano will be in Paris for The French TV Show on TF1 on April 17th.
www.coyote.fr and the channel website www.tf1.frwww.fratelliegiziano.it
Italian Bee Gees
Barry Gibb Web Site
Many of you have mailed me recently about problems concerning Barry Gibb.com.
From the time Barry Gibb.com is online only the main page was working, showing news and photos / video material etc. and the chat room button.
You've never been able to log in or register on the front page of the web site or watch any other pages yet.
However since a few days there is more going on.
I've been in contact with the webmaster yesterday and they are working on it and soon the new site is also going to another data centre.
Hopefully problems are solved within a few days.
The site will be back!
Marion / GSI (with thanks: Darin Butler - Kiwiana)
Hi Marion,
Just to let you and all the Bee Gees fans know:
Stayin Alive U.K. to perform in U.S.A
The British Bee Gees tribute band Stayin Alive U.K. are to perform for one night only at the Sheldon Theatre, Red Wing, Minnesota, on May 15th 2010.
The trio, who recently re-recorded 'Stayin Alive' for the forthcoming Bollywood movie 'It's a Wonderful Afterlife' are regarded by many, including Blue Weaver, as being 'The Best'.
Visit the websites for more details
www.stayin-alive.co.ukwww.sheldontheatre.org
Auction of signed Barry Gibb Guitar !!
We earlier mentioned about Jennifer Shannon who had a beautiful signed Barry Gibb guitar which she wanted to sell for her foundation as Jennifer is Fundraising Officer of the Sir Oswald Stoll Foundation. (see GSI News February 6th.)
Jennifer proudly wrote us last week:
"I'm delighted to report that Kathy Baker of New Hampshire USA is now the new proud owner of the Barry Gibb signed guitar. Kathy is a real Bee Gees fan and is thrilled at the prospect of owning it.
The guitar should arrive safely with her in a few days.
Many thanks for all your help and support. The guitar has gone to a true fan who has redecorated her living room in order to provide a suitable setting for it! The proceeds of the sale will help provide valuable support for the vulnerable and disabled ex-Servicemen and women that we house. Our sincere gratitude to all who made offers to boost the sale and our commiserations to those who were unsuccessful in their offers.
Best wishes, Jennifer".
Some photos of the guitar, (a Phil Pro) and the authenticity certificate given by Barry's friend Dave English: click here.
Hello!
I really hope you don't mind my asking my question here, since I was unable to figure out how to reach the administration on another Barry Gibb 'board'.
I once belonged to a very warm, fun and caring group of Bee Gee fans, on a different board, until our board leader died from a long and painful fight with cancer.
Since I admittedly was never a part of the 'clique' on this board, I was not one of the members who others emailed and kept in touch with.
In the mean time, I didn't just STOP being a Bee Gees fan.
I love the guys, I love the music, and I miss listening and sharing with other fans, so I have occasionally gone into the "Official Barry Gibb Chat Room" site and tried to just listen and remember.
The last time I was here (last night), I was speaking to one of the 'regular' members, and said something like "Thank the God(s) someone actually finds my sarcastic sense of humor funny."
And the person I was speaking with at the time said, "There is only one God." Well, ok, no biggy, I don't have any issues with anyone elses beliefs as long as they aren't damaging or demeaning or detrimental to another living soul.
I spent the last 1/2 hour being attacked and threatened, all to my pure horror and amazement!
I am stunned to the degree that I am weeping inside.
I was all but told that Barry would NEVER stand for this religious or political upheaval
(I can't help but wonder if I had said "thank GOD" if I would not have been run over by that huge cement truck I never saw coming??)
and if I didn't 'straighten up' I would find out what all of that meant! I guess by being 'kicked' from the board.
I just needed an outlet to say that, I honestly don't believe that Barry would have judged me SO harshly, so immediately, as did these people who stated they have 'known' Barry for years.
I believe Barry, Robin (and Maurice) are gentle souls who don't anger so easily and who are MORE than capable of allowing someone their beliefs, as long as those beliefs center on the beauty of a living soul.
If you don't print this, it is ok. Like I said, I just needed to vent this.
I will be very hurt for a very long time from the 'beating' I took last night, and I accept that I will have to continue to be alone in my appreciation for the Bee Gees.
I honestly believe their might be others out there who may have been abused as I was on Barry's Board, and I DO feel that others should at least know they are not alone.
No matter WHAT... I will NEVER stop loving Barry, Robin, and Mo. No matter what.
Thank you
Trish (lonelurker@sbcglobal.net)
Dear Marion,
I just sent you an e-mail about the Love and Hope Ball 2010.
I sent it for you to publish it in the "Reports" section of your GSI site.
You have my permission to publish it if you think it would be of interest to other fans.
Thanks so much, because if it weren't for this website, I would not have known how to get an invitation to the Ball.
Thanks for everything you do to keep us posted on the Bee Gees comings and goings, especially now! You're awesome!
Thanks again! Carmen M.Lopez of El Paso, Texas
Casting For French TV
My name is Aurélia Couturier.
I am working for a French TV company and currently working on a TV talent show dedicated to families which will be aired prime time live on TF1, the first French channel.
We are trying to gather people performing with members of their family in various artistic categories such as dancers, magicians, singers, circus artists and we would love to have a music band playing The Bee Gees!
I am asking for your help
We are looking for any kind of band forming, 4 or 3 brothers, parents with their children, uncles and cousins or grand parents
We would love to have The Bee Gees represented on our set.
If there are interested fans and families then please take a look at the advertisement of TF1
Click here (Word file).
Feel free to visit our website: www.coyote.fr and the channel website www.tf1.fr
The filming will take place in Paris on April 2010 and all the travel expenses will be covered by our company (train/plane tickets, hotel rooms, meals) and the winners of the evening will win €15 000
(over £13000 - $20000). The show will be aired on the first French channel but also in Switzerland and Belgium.
Vince Melouney
Ex Bee Gee Vince Melouney sings Bee Gees covers in solo show
Vince Melouney's musical career started in a garage in Hornsby and took him to the world stage, performing with Billy Thorpe and the Aztecs and then with the Bee Gees.
Melouney recorded New York Mining Disaster with the Bee Gees, which he said marked the beginning of their UK success.
Many hits followed, including To Love Somebody, Massachusetts and I Started a Joke.
There were TV shows and concerts back to back: "It was an incredible couple of years."
But Melouney said life with the Bee Gees ``just got too crazy'' and when he was offered a contract he didn't like, he quit.
The solo show he's doing at Asquith Bowling Club (just up the road from his old house in Lodge St) on March 27 features a complete set of Bee Gees hits.
"They are still among the five most popular groups in the world ever, "Melouney said, "and everyone loves doing covers of their songs". http://hornsby-advocate.whereilive.com.auhttp://content.asquithbowlingclub.com.au
Hello GSI
My name is Dropjaw Bertone. I am a 27 year old songwriter/musician/recording artist from Gainesville, Florida. I have written a tribute song for Maurice Gibb and a song for Michael Jackson which are both included on my new album "Ten Grande" which was released on December 22, 2009 in honor of Maurice's (and Robin's) birthday.
Maurice's song is called "You Are There" and MJ's song is called "Man On The Moon".
the YouTube video for MJ's song is here: www.youtube.com and I will be adding a video for Maurice's song very soon too.
My cover version of "I Started A Joke" you can find at: www.youtube.com
I have a deep respect for the bee gees, their families, the fans and for everything your website does for the Bee Gees. Thank you very much and let's await the day we can once again buy new Bee Gees albums and tickets for concerts!
Peace and love, Dropjaw Bertone
www.DropjawBertone.com
You Are There sound clip
R.I.P. Michael Jackson 6-25-2009 ; Maurice Gibb 1-12-2003
Dropjaw Bertone's Tenth New Solo Album "TEN GRANDE" Officially Released December 22, 2009 featuring tributes to Michael Jackson, Maurice Gibb, Bo Diddley and Somer Thompson!
Hi Marion
I have gone to Miami to see the Gibbs for the past 5 years. I've given you some reports about visiting Barry and Yvonne.
This past year, (Sept. 26th) I was again at Barry's home with a few other friends.
Barry, again, so sweet as he can be!! I noticed on GSI that someone wrote, "it would be nice to see Barry and Robin perform again".
Well, Barry and Mr. Ashby told me then:
Barry and Robin plan to perform this year unless things change. I asked Barry where the tour would start, and he said, "over there, the UK". Things could change for this. (as you well know).
We were "thrilled" to hear this!! Barry said he and Robin were writing songs too. A tour would start around Spring or some later. Other info:
There is a musical production taking place at The Encore hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada. It'll be about the life of The Bee Gees.
The performers have been picked to play each Bee Gee, and it was said by Mr. Ashby, it could be ready to start by Spring.
(it now seems to be planned for first half next year!). I'm planning to go and see that production or see Barry and Robin perform hopefully in the USA.
It was not discussed any places they would perform. I guess they are getting their heads together on this sometime soon, and that's at the moment still too early to tell.
Take care, Gail M.
Gail with Barry
Barry in Chile?!
Since yesterday, January 11th. fans write me about publications telling that Barry will be performing in Chile next month (Vina Del Mar 2010).
However after checking this I was told: this is not true. http://enelshow.com
When more details become available about performances of The Brothers we'll let you know.
Marion:
I have been following the Bee Gees since high school in Gainesville, Florida and I still remember their Main Course album and all their great songs.
Needless to say I have been a fan ever since. I am a novelist and when I wrote The Oasis Project, a detective murder mystery, my hero had to be a Bee Gees fan.
In my second work, Power Grid, my hero is rescued when his friends come to his aid playing Stayin Alive!
Thanks for the website!
Art Adkins, (Award Winning & Best Selling Author of The Oasis Project)
American Academy Awards for The Bee Gees
I'd like to encourage all fans to solicit the American Academy Awards officials to recognize in some fashion the achievements of the Bee Gees!
They are always giving out special awards for people have not even done as much as they have.
They opened the door for all of the musical artists who followed them, and they never even received a nomination for the songs in Saturday Night Fever.
It is deplorable.
My frustration is that their last (most recent) CD's were absolutely wonderful and overlooked. If you listen to songs like Haunted House, I Surrender, ESP, and others, the Bee Gees continued to make wonderful music that was overlooked. That is very sad; people don't know what they have missed.
I keep wondering what could be one to correct this. Maybe Ultimate and Mythology will contribute to this effort.
It would be lovely to see Barry and Robin get an opportunity to write some songs for another motion picture, who knows what will happen in the future.
They absolutely deserve some recognition from the Academy Awards.
Please mail me if you think the same, or give your comments and help me to get The Bee Gees an Academy Award.
A while back we've asked what you'd think of the idea to see Barry and Robin live on stage again with the old band members: Alan Kendall, Blue Weaver and Dennis Bryon.
Specially the older fans wrote us back telling:
it would bring good old memories back and they'd love it.
I wonder if they will ever do huge concerts again with a complete band, but if they decide to do it: then please ask the old gang!.... Michael P.
Yes, great idea. I cannot wait to see them all back on stage again .... Ann M.
Very good idea, specially Alan who has been with the guys for as long as I can remember.
I also think it will be an extra support for Barry and Robin to have them backing them on stage since they have to sing now without Mo and Alan,
Blue and Dennis know most of the Gibb compositions already. I hope to see them once again somewhere in Europe!.... Erna S.
Hello,
The BeeGees music will always be the songbook to all our lives.
The Brothers Gibb are fantastic songwriters and performers, and their music will live on forever.
Maurice ( Mo) was our dear friend way back in 1968 and with his then wife Lulu helped us get signed to Atlantic Records with our debut album "Cartoone".
We will always remember Mo, he was such a lovely guy to be around, and helped us create our sound, which was very similar to the early BeeGees.
In honour to Mo and Lulu, Friday Music have remastered our long lost album Cartoone Deluxe Edition and released it once again on CD.
So pleased to see Robin and Barry onstage once again performing together.
Best wishes to all BeeGees fans everywhere.
Cartoone, www.myspace.com
Fans enjoyed seeing Barry and Robin together on stage again in the UK and doing an interview together on TV in North America
Some first comments:
-----I was about five metres away from the brothers during their performance at "Strictly Come Dancing".
They actually filmed their singing about thirty minutes before the show.
When they appeared to have been introduced by Bruce, they weren't actually there! It was quite funny and surreal. They were actually introduced by the guy whose job was to warm up the audience with jokes etc...
They were standing on the stage for about two or three minutes before they started to sing. This was something I'd never seen before (I mean at concerts they walk on while the music has already started and on TV interviews they're active before they sing). So what I noticed especially was the immense concentration on their faces before the song started. They weren't laughing to any of the jokes. In fact, Barry was
almost muttering to himself as if to psyche himself up. They seemed to enjoy the performance. The band they used were excellent. It was their musicians not the same ones as for the dancing (who were also brilliant). So I guess these guys will be accompanying them for more promotional work.
How did they sound? Well they were definitely not miming. I can't believe that anyone would have suggested they were. I thought the performance was on a par with the opening of One Night Only. So, not as good as their Wembley show but pretty good considering no Maurice and that this was twelve years on.
I actually had a great night. I was sat right at the front bang opposite the stage, with the main cameras behind my head! (Robin S.).
----- Hello Gibb Brothers, I just saw your interview on CBS, it aired this morning on Canadian television. I was deeply touched. I'm glad to hear you will be writing and singing again. This world needs beautiful, loving music that only can be written by the few.
you, and your brother are 2 of the few that remain, who can heal life's pain with your lyrics and music. Glad to hear you're back on the job!!
---- This is a happy time seeing them on stage side by side again, please give us more.
-----I just saw the interview on CBS Sunday Morning and was so enthused that the brothers are back and writing new material. True artists; very, very unique talents
-----To Barry and Robin,
Seeing you both on The Morning Show today brought back memories of Brisbane 1962 and seeing you all perform on the afternoon dance show of Channel 9 (up on Mt. Cootha). What a great day that was for my friend Gayle and myself. Looking back it was clear even then you would be stars. I've enjoyed your great success ever since and am looking forward to the 50th Anniversary album.
----- Constantly wonder what is next for them. I sincerely believe that they are the best ever. I know people talk and rave about the Beatles talent; however, I really feel the Bee Gees are better. I feel that they have more creativity in them and should go on. I am a fan forever.
Fan Interview
Laura T. 'On Sept 1 I was interviewed by Tim Roxorough. (New Zealand Radio).
He called me in the USA. The radio program was looking for stories about fans meeting The Bee Gees.
You can hear my conversation with the radio station'. Click here to listen.
Bee Gees Bar
From Japan we received this message:
As part of the campaign for "Ultimate," a cafe in downtown Tokyo will turn
into a "Bee Gees bar" October 30th through November 15th.
The cafe is "Rock Around the Clock" located in the prestigious New
Marunouchi Bldg. in Marunouchi, one of Tokyo's finest and busiest business
and shopping areas, and only a minute's walk from Tokyo Station. During the
above promo period, the cafe will feature Bee Gees music extensively and
put up special displays. www.hotpepper.jp.
Dear fans
GSI is wondering what you think of the idea if Robin and Barry,( if and when they decide to do some live performances), would ask Alan, Blue and Dennis again to join them ?!
What would you think of the idea?
Please let me know at: marion@brothersgibb.org , subject: Bee Gees Band.
I'm just wondering and like to hear your thoughts and I guess Alan, Blue and Dennis would like it too.
Marion / GSI
Alan Kendall - Dennis Bryon - Blue Weaver
Hello Marion,
I'm pleased to tell you that the biggest Barry Gibb fan (me) just cracked the Australian Pop charts. My single "Like The River" Live At Sydney Opera House debut at Number 3.
It would be great if you let the folks know through your website what - going to 'Barry Gibb school of music' - can do for upcoming musicians!!!!
See the charts here:
www.ariacharts.com.au
Love and thanks for always supporting me.
Mahmood Khan
Some fan questions answered again:
QUESTION
What is the status of rebuilding something on the property where once the Johnny Cash's house was standing? Barry and Linda are now looking to find someone as they want to see the house rebuilt to it's original design.
QUESTION
Any news on the Bee Gees Stayin' Alive musical in Las Vegas? The latest news is that the show won't open until sometime next year.
(www.theatermania.com)
This Is Daniel Roos
A new Dutch talent who has just released his debut album earlier this year.
His first official album is called: A New Time and ex Bee Gee Vince Melouney was one of the artists who cooperated on this project with Daniel.
Daniel Roos
Daniel Roos was born and raised in Gorinchem, the Netherlands. His love for music has been great since he was just a little boy.
Coming from a family full of artists - like singers, pianists, writers and painters - it's not too strange that Daniel wanted to dedicate his life to music.
As a little boy Daniel used to listen to cassettes that he got from his father. Most of this music was from the 60's and 70's.
You can hear in Daniel's music that this has been a great influence to his song writing. Inspired by his late uncle Ad Roos, Daniel started to sing and play keys at the age of ten.
It was the same uncle who inspired him to write his own songs. It got a little out of hand when he decided to really follow his uncle's footsteps and try to make it as a musician.
More info: www.danielroos.com http://daniel-roos.hyves.nl www.myspace.com/danielroosmusic www.ilike.com/artist/Daniel+Roos www.last.fm/music/Daniel+Roos www.youtube.com/danielroosmusic
Vince Melouney
Daniel:
'I know Vince for about 4 years.
We regularly email each other. Unfortunately we've never met yet because he hasn't been in Europe lately and I haven't been to Australia in these 4 years.
Four years ago Vince became 60 and GSI had mentioned this on the website. I'm a Bee Gees fan myself since I was 7 and so I was raised with the group.
I have about all their music on CD, including bootlegs and demo material and The Bee Gees have inspired me to do what I'm doing now being a singer / pianist / song writer.
When I read the article on GSI about Vince I mailed him.
I didn't expect him to get back to me and therefore I didn't mention at that time about my career but only that I was musician as well and I wrote him about the fact that I started listening to The Bee Gees at the age of 7 which was the double LP of my father which I had on a cassette tape; The Best Of, Vol. 1 & 2.
At the time I first mailed Vince I was just 18 and already 11 years fan of The Bee Gees and so I thought it would be nice for Vince to receive congratulations from a young Dutch fan.
He appreciated this very much and was very interested in my music although I hadn't told him anything about that yet.
He mailed me back very shortly after I'd send him my first mail and asked me what kind of music I composed etc.
A couple of mails later I sent him my CD. I made already 3 CD's the past 4 years which I released on my own.
We stayed in regular contact and also I kept him updated about my musical career and sent him all my CD's.
So he knows I worked very hard. And when I, one year ago, got a chance to record and release my first official CD, my debut CD, Vince was very enthusiastic to cooperate on this project of mine.
Due to his busy schedule Vince could only play on two of the songs. This became our first cooperation but there might come a next time. Vince worked together on the tracks:
"Karma Song" en "Worried (I'm Alright)". He played his parts in Australia and sent them to me so I could mix them here to complete the songs.
It was a special way of working but with a very good result.
My first official CD was recorded with live instruments and of course with this very special help and cooperation of Vince Melouney as well as Joseph Bowie and the back ground vocals from L.A. recorded by Jim Gilstrap and Sherlie Matthews (the last one by the way also did back ground vocals on Stayin' Alive of The Bee Gees).
Vince loves to come to Europe once again to tour and also visit The Netherlands.
Unfortunately I have never met The Bee Gees myself. I would go and see them with my dad but then Maurice died.
I however did see one of the shows of Robin in Germany that was a great experience and I also hope once to get a chance to see Barry live as well.
Especially Barry has been a great inspiration for me, the way he sings and writes.
My uncle, like mentioned in my biography, has been a great influence in my career as well. He died 6 years ago but he'd given me a floppy for my keyboard on which he'd recorded the music of I Started A Joke.
This was one of my fave songs and I loved to sing along with recorded music of my uncle. I covered more songs on cassette but seldom play any cover material.
However the only song I still perform almost during each show is To Love Somebody as a tribute to The Bee Gees as the boys have been a huge example for me.
Unfortunately there are no recordings yet of me singing this cover song'.
