Introduction:
Heartbreaker by the Bee Gees. Released in 1982, this song is a fascinating wrinkle in the Gibb brothers’ remarkable career. Now, for those unfamiliar with their trajectory, the Bee Gees had already conquered the pop world twice. First, in the late 60s with their tight harmonies and psychedelic flourishes on tracks like “To Love Somebody” and “Massachusetts.” Then, a decade later, they reinvented themselves as the disco kings, soundtracking a generation’s Saturday nights with anthems like “Stayin’ Alive” and “Night Fever.”
But Heartbreaker doesn’t quite fit neatly into either of those boxes. Sure, there’s a touch of disco influence in the rhythmic pulse, but it’s a more mature sound, a ballad that leans into adult contemporary territory. This shift wasn’t entirely unexpected. By the early 80s, disco’s fever had begun to cool, and the brothers Gibb, ever the shrewd musical chameleons, were adapting.
The song’s genesis is equally interesting. Contrary to what many might assume, Heartbreaker wasn’t originally intended for the Bee Gees themselves. Instead, it was written for the legendary soul singer Dionne Warwick. The Gibb brothers, along with their long-time production team of Albhy Galuten and Karl Richardson, crafted the song for her 1982 album of the same name. Barry Gibb even provided soaring backing vocals on the track, essentially creating a duet with Warwick.
Warwick’s version of Heartbreaker was a success, reaching number five on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. This strong showing speaks to the song’s inherent quality. It’s a testament to the songwriting prowess of the Bee Gees, who could not only craft dance floor anthems but also deliver soul-stirring ballads that resonated with a broad audience.
However, the story doesn’t end there. The Bee Gees themselves clearly felt a connection to Heartbreaker. They performed it live on occasion, albeit just the powerful chorus section. Perhaps it was the vulnerability in the lyrics, the tale of a love gone wrong, that resonated with them. Whatever the reason, they eventually recorded their own version, released in 2001 on the compilation album “Their Greatest Hits: The Record.”
This Bee Gees rendition allows us to appreciate the song through a different lens. The signature falsetto vocals of the brothers Gibb take center stage, adding a layer of yearning and melancholy that complements the lyrical theme of heartbreak.
So, Heartbreaker stands as a unique chapter in the Bee Gees’ story. It’s a song that bridges eras, showcasing their adaptability and songwriting strength. Whether you prefer the soulful delivery of Dionne Warwick or the raw emotion of the Bee Gees’ version, Heartbreaker remains a powerful ballad that continues to resonate with listeners today.