Introduction:
Released in 1974 on the album Mr. Natural, Give A Hand, Take A Hand is a gospel-infused ballad by the legendary Bee Gees. While the Bee Gees are certainly known for their disco era dominance in the late 1970s, Give A Hand, Take A Hand showcases a different side of the band, one that is introspective and yearning for connection.
The song was written and produced by the Gibb brothers: Barry Gibb, Robin Gibb, and Maurice Gibb. The Gibb brothers were the creative force behind the Bee Gees, writing and producing most of their hits. Give A Hand, Take A Hand is not one of their biggest commercial successes, but it has become a favorite among some fans for its unique sound and heartfelt message.
Mr. Natural, the album that Give A Hand, Take A Hand appears on, was a critical and commercial disappointment for the Bee Gees. Following on the heels of their 1971 soundtrack for the film Melody Fair, which contained the hit How Can You Mend a Broken Heart, Mr. Natural failed to capture the same magic. The album marked a shift in the band’s sound, moving away from their earlier rock and roll roots and towards a more mellow and soulful sound. Give A Hand, Take A Hand exemplifies this shift, incorporating elements of gospel and soul music into the Bee Gees’ signature vocal harmonies.
Despite the album’s lack of commercial success, Give A Hand, Take A Hand is a song that has endured for fans of the Bee Gees. The song’s gospel influences are evident in the piano chords and the backing vocals, which create a sense of uplift and hope. The lyrics speak of a longing for a simpler time and a world filled with compassion. The Bee Gees’ signature high harmonies are present on the track, but they are used more sparingly here, adding a touch of sweetness to the song’s message of unity.
Give A Hand, Take A Hand may not be a disco anthem, but it is a song that showcases the Bee Gees’ versatility and songwriting talents. The track is a testament to the band’s ability to experiment with different sounds and styles while still retaining their own unique identity.
Video:
Lyrics:
I wish the world was run by all the little childrenWe could be happy once againWe won’t hurt when we’re like little childrenAnd we won’t ever feel the pain
Now when my fight for life on earth is overAnd i leave ’cause i can’t stayAll my love belongs to you hereafterAnd we’ll all join hand another day
Ev’rybody’s got to give a handEv’rybody’s got to take a handEv’rybody’s got t fall in love , yeahTo make ev’rybody understandEv’rybody’s got to give , take a hand
I love you , yes i doI told you a million times nowNow do you believe the words i sayAll my life belongs to you hereafterAnd we’ll all join hands another day
Ev’rybody’s got to give a handEv’rybody’s got to take a handEv’rybody’s got to fall in love , yeahTo make ev’rybody understandEv’rybody’s got to give , take a hand
Ev’rybody’s got to give a handEv’rybody’s got to take a handEv’rybody’s got to fall in love , yeahTo make ev’rybody understandEv’rybody’s got to give, take a hand