Introduction:
The Bee Gees, a name synonymous with disco anthems and soaring falsettos, released I Can’t See Nobody in 1967. This track, though not a breakout hit compared to their later disco-fueled success, marked a significant point in their evolving sound and serves as a bridge between their early pop sensibilities and the era-defining disco that would propel them to superstardom.
Composed by the songwriting trio of brothers, Barry, Robin, and Maurice Gibb, I Can’t See Nobody falls under the genre of psychedelic pop. The psychedelic rock movement was flourishing in the mid-1960s, and the Bee Gees, along with many of their contemporaries, experimented with incorporating elements like distorted guitars, phasing effects, and unconventional song structures into their music. I Can’t See Nobody embodies this experimentation with its melancholic melody, introspective lyrics, and subtle use of distortion.
While the Bee Gees would later produce their music themselves, I Can’t See Nobody was overseen by producer Ossie Byrne. Byrne had a working relationship with the brothers since their earliest recordings in Australia and would continue to collaborate with them on several occasions throughout the 1960s.
I Can’t See Nobody failed to crack the Billboard Hot 100 chart, but it did reach number 128 on the Bubbling Under Hot 100 chart in July 1967. Despite the lack of major chart success, the song holds a certain importance within the Bee Gees’ discography. It marked a turning point in their songwriting, showcasing a maturing sound that incorporated more introspective themes and a willingness to experiment.
I Can’t See Nobody foreshadowed the group’s later success with its strong vocal harmonies – a signature element that would remain a constant throughout their career. The song also hints at the Gibb brothers’ penchant for crafting catchy melodies, a talent that would be fully realized in their disco era. Although not a commercial juggernaut, I Can’t See Nobody serves as a valuable reminder of the Bee Gees’ artistic growth and their enduring mark on popular music.
Video:
Lyrics:
I walk the lonely streets,I watch the people passing by.I used to smile and say hello.Guess I was just a happy guy.Then you happened, girl,This feeling that possesses me.I just can’t move myself.I guess it all just had to be.
I can’t see nobody, no, I can’t see nobody.Mine eyes can only look at you, you.
I used to have a brain, I used to think of many things.I watched the falling rain and listened to the sweet birds sing.Don’t ask me why, little girl.I love you and that’s all I can say.You’re ev’ry ,ev’ry breath I take.You are my nights; my night and day.
I can’t see nobody, no, I can’t see nobody.Mine eyes can only look at you, you.
Every single word you hearIs coming from this heart of mine.I never felt like this beforeA love like yours so young and fine.And now as I try to forget youIt doesn’t work out any way.I loved you such a long time agoBut in my eyes you’ll always be.
Every single word you hearIs coming from this heart of mine.I loved you such a long time agoDon’t know why,And I don’t know why, baby
I can’t see nobody, no, I can’t see nobody.Mine eyes can only look at you, you.
I can’t see nobody, no, I can’t see nobody.Mine eyes can only look at you, you.