Introduction:
Released in September 1965, Wine and Women marked a significant milestone for the young Gibb brothers. It was their debut single on Leedon Records in their native Australia, pre-dating their international explosion by several years. Though not a massive hit by later standards, reaching number 19 on the Australian charts, Wine and Women is a vital piece of the Bee Gees’ musical history, showcasing their early sound and songwriting prowess.
Composed by Barry Gibb, with Bill Shepherd taking the producer’s chair, Wine and Women falls under the genre of what is sometimes referred to as “beat” music. This energetic and guitar-driven style was popular in the mid-1960s, drawing influence from rock and roll and rhythm and blues. Wine and Women showcases this sound with a prominent guitar riff by Maurice Gibb, punctuated by the thumping rhythm section.
However, even at this early stage, the signature element of the Bee Gees’ music – their vocal harmonies – is present in Wine and Women. While not yet the soaring falsettos that would become their trademark, the Gibb brothers’ natural blend is evident, particularly on the song’s catchy chorus. This interplay between the raw instrumentation and the burgeoning vocal harmonies hints at the future musical direction the Bee Gees would explore.
Wine and Women is not just a stepping stone to the Bee Gees’ disco era; it also holds its own merit as a song. The lyrics, though simple, paint a picture of youthful romance and heartbreak. The protagonist, a young man, reflects on the fleeting nature of love and the allure of fleeting pleasures. The themes may be familiar, but the song’s energy and the Gibb brothers’ delivery keep it engaging.
While Wine and Women may not be one of the Bee Gees’ biggest hits, it serves as a fascinating time capsule of their early musical identity. It captures a band still finding its sound, yet brimming with potential. The song showcases their strong songwriting, their undeniable vocal talent, and their ability to blend musical styles. Wine and Women is a reminder that the Bee Gees’ path to superstardom was paved with earlier works that, while not chart-toppers, displayed the raw talent that would propel them to international fame.
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.