While some children dream of growing up to be doctors, lawyers, president, kings or queens. Four little boys dreamed ‘one day we’re all going to be famous’. These four little boys worked hard. Never giving up on their dream. With a natural talent for singing and songwriting. These four little boys would realize fame beyond anyone’s wildest dreams.
Barry Alan Crompton Gibb was born in Douglas on the Isle of Man on September 1, 1946. Barry was the first son born to Hugh and Barbara Gibb. When his parents brought him home he joined an older sister Lesley, born January 12, 1945. Robin Hugh Gibb was born at 3:15 am. 35 minutes later at 3:50 his fraternal twin, Maurice Ernest Gibb came into the world. The twins were born in Douglas on the Isle of Man on December 22, 1949. Andrew Roy Gibb was born in Manchester, England on March 5. 1958.
These four little boys showed signs of being creative at an early age. When Barry was around five he could be caught pretending to perform. At the age of nine he was beginning to compose songs. By the time Maurice and Robin were six you could find them sitting on the bed with their older brother singing harmony. When Andy turned 12 Barry gave him his first guitar. At this time Andy’s older brothers were beginning to make their mark on the music world as the Bee Gees.
When not working together Barry has done work on solo albums, “Now Voyager” and “Hawks”. And made a name for himself as a producer. He produced a Barbara Streisand album. Barbara and Barry also sang together on the songs “Guilty” and “What Kind of Fool”.
Robin, with his unique voice that can add such emotion to a song, has released the solo albums “Robin’s Reign”, “How Old Are You”, “Secret Agent” and “Magnet”. He has also worked with alot of new and up coming artists. Maurice was a musician, song writer, singer and musical director. He wrote film scores, “A Breed Apart” and instrumentals, “In Rounds”. In 1983 he wrote a 15 minute film and soundtrack which he donated to the Metro-Dade Tourism Department.
The youngest brother Andy would become famous as a solo artist. With such hits as “I Just Want To Be Your Everthing”, “Love Is Thicker Than Water”, and “(Our Love)Don’t Throw It All Away”. He also did acting in plays and guest apperances on TV shows. Andy was known and loved for being a kind caring young man, who has always willing to help those in need. Even though he had so much going for him: a beautiful singing voice, talent as a song writer, a great personality and good looks. He lacked faith in himself and wasn’t prepared for success.
Maurice was known and loved for his friendliness and sense of humour. With a calming influence on others. Many times he played the part of peacemaker. He was young at heart. One of his favorite past times was playing Paintball.
Robin in known for being a very deep, sensitive person. A romantic. He loves to read and has a passion for history.
Barry is known for being a very easy going, quiet man. Who would do anything for a friend yet likes to keep mostly to himself.
All four brothers have been known for their kindness to their fans and their charity work.
Sadly the world will never know how much more Andy and Maurice had to offer. On March 10, 1988 Andy passed away from an inflammation of the heart. On January 12, 2003 Maurice passed away after surgery for an intestinal blockage.
I believe you can tell alot about someone through their eyes. When I look at pictures of Andy, Maurice, Barry and Robin. Looking into Andy’s eyes I see a haunting innocence that makes me want to hold him close filling his soul with warmth and inner trust. Looking into Maurice’s eyes I see so much life with a twinkle that makes me wonder if he has something up his sleeve. There is a gentliness that draws me in and makes me feel safe. Looking into Barry’s eyes I see the big brother I never had. Always to be depended on for a word of advice and a helping hand. Looking into Robin’s eyes I see a sad heart crying out for love. I want to reach out, touch him, share his pain, give him a sense of fulfillment and belonging.
Andy has given us “Shadow Dancing”, “Man on Fire”, “Flowing Rivers”, “After Dark”, “Me(Without You)” and “Time is Time”. While the Bee Gees have given us “Massachusetts”, “Words”, “To Love Somebody”, “This Is Where I Came In”, “I’ve Gotta Get A Message To You”, “Run To Me”, “I Started A Joke”, “How Can You Mend A Broken Heart”. And in 1969 “Don’t Forget To Remeber”.
Andy and Maurice, your memory will always remain in my heart. Barry and Robin I will never get over you. My heart and prayers are with you always. I will never forget to remeber those four little boys who grew up to make dreams come true.
Andy, Maurice, Barry and Robin
Thank you Love.
