Introduction:
While the name “Bee Gees” immediately conjures images of three brothers – Barry, Robin, and Maurice Gibb – harmonizing their way through disco anthems, there were times when the brothers ventured outside the familiar trio format. “Hold Her In Your Hand” is a prime example, showcasing the songwriting and vocal talents of Maurice Gibb on a solo venture in 1984.
The song itself has an interesting backstory. Composed by both Maurice and Barry Gibb during the recording sessions for the Bee Gees’ 1981 album Living Eyes, “Hold Her In Your Hand” didn’t make the final cut for the group. However, the melody and lyrics resonated with Maurice, and a few years later, the opportunity arose for him to revisit the track.
In 1984, Maurice took the helm as both songwriter and producer for the soundtrack of the Australian film A Breed Apart. This action drama, starring Karen Allen and Warren Oates, provided a platform for Maurice to not only contribute original music, but also to showcase his talents as a solo artist. “Hold Her In Your Hand” found a new home on the A Breed Apart soundtrack, released in September 1984.
While the Bee Gees were known for their disco-infused sound in the late 70s and early 80s, “Hold Her In Your Hand” took a sharp turn in a different direction. The song embraced the warm embrace of the country ballad genre. Maurice donned his multi-instrumentalist hat, playing piano, guitar, and bass on the track. The addition of a harmonica and drums (though the specific musicians remain uncredited) completes the down-home feel of the song.
“Hold Her In Your Hand” may not have reached the chart-topping heights of some of the Bee Gees’ biggest hits, but it stands as a testament to Maurice Gibb’s musical versatility. The song allowed him to explore a genre outside the band’s usual territory, showcasing his songwriting skills and his smooth, soulful vocals. Within the context of the A Breed Apart soundtrack, it provided a poignant and relatable counterpoint to the film’s dramatic narrative.