Introduction:
The year is 1966. The Beatles are dominating the airwaves with their brand of innovative rock and roll, and a new wave of British bands are emerging, eager to carve their own sonic niche. Among them are the Bee Gees, a group of three brothers from the Isle of Man – Robin, Maurice, and Barry Gibb. Though still teenagers, the brothers had already established themselves as successful pop stars in Australia, but their sights were now set on conquering the British and American markets.
Their sound at this point leaned heavily towards a style known as the British Invasion. This genre, spearheaded by the Beatles, was characterized by catchy melodies, jangly guitars, and tight harmonies. The Bee Gees, with their naturally gifted vocal blend, were perfectly suited for this style. Their early work, however, also showcased a touch of theatricality and emotional depth that would later become a hallmark of their sound.
“I Don’t Know Why I Bother With Myself” is a prime example of this early Bee Gees sound. Released in 1966 as part of their album Spicks and Specks, the song is a heartfelt ballad that explores themes of regret, self-doubt, and longing for a lost love. The song’s lyrics, penned by Robin Gibb, paint a picture of a young man struggling with the aftermath of a failed relationship. He acknowledges his own shortcomings (“I’m a fool, I’ve taken no advice”), expresses a desperate desire to win back his love (“Oh, just to see my love walk through these doors”), and grapples with feelings of inadequacy (“Guess I don’t know why I bother with myself”).
While not a chart-topping hit, “I Don’t Know Why I Bother With Myself” holds a special place in the Bee Gees’ history. It serves as a valuable snapshot of the band’s early sound and songwriting abilities. The song’s raw emotion and vulnerability hint at the deeper themes the brothers would explore in their later work. Additionally, the track showcases the undeniable vocal talent of the Gibb brothers, particularly Robin’s soaring lead vocals.
Though produced by Ossie Byrne, who worked with the Bee Gees on several of their early albums, the song’s true magic lies in the combined efforts of the brothers themselves. Robin’s songwriting and lead vocals take center stage, while Maurice’s bass guitar and Barry’s rhythm guitar and backing vocals create a bed of rich harmony.
“I Don’t Know Why I Bother With Myself” may not be the Bee Gees’ most commercially successful song, but it remains a cherished gem for fans and a
testament to the band’s early potential. It’s a song that showcases the raw talent of the Gibb brothers and offers a glimpse into the musical direction they would eventually pursue.
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Lyrics:
I’m a fool, I’ve taken no adviceAnd I’m so cruel, I’m talkin’ to you niceBut then again you may not take me backOh just to put my hat back on your rackGuess I don’t know why I bother with myselfYou will find a part of me in someone elseI never argued with the fact that she is mineI only hurt her and kissed herThree times out of nineYou have the edge to talk to menAnd make them feel at homeYou spent that every lasting cent onSomeone that’s not your ownBear with me there’s bound to be a chanceTo heal the wound and start back our romanceI gained a heart and part of it is yoursOh just to see my loveWalk through these doorsOh and my life’s bound out aheadI can not lookAnd if you read me, then I am just a bookYou don’t care if rain falls in my roomYou won’t be there if trouble fills my spoonI’m just a clown that plays aroundWith misery in my wayForgetting all the rules of love