Bee Gees: The authorized biography

by Barry Gibb, Robin Gibb, Maurice Gibb

A biography of the lives and careers of the Brothers Gibb, very successful rhythm and blues artists, with numerous black and white photographs.

188 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 1979

Reviews

[Doris · Rating 4 out of 5]

Yes, this particular Authorised Biography dates back to the late seventies - however, the important of the lives of the Brothers Gibb is covered nonetheless. Their early days, the family's move to Australia, the beginning of their singing and song-writing career and the subsequent return to their homeland, the UK - all is documented in words and photographs for everyone to see. And while on some online sites only oldest brother Barry is credited as collaborator with the actual author David Leaf, judging by what has actually been put to paper, twins Robin an Maurice were just as involved in producing the book, as were all their wives, co-workers, friends and parents - interviewed and quoted.
The Biography also includes an Appendix containing lists of songs and cover versions, releases and recordings, special awards, individual and combined productions right down to albums and soundtracks, but also songs they wrote for other artists. And all listings are extensive and very detailed.
What struck me the most was the honesty with which the lives of those very humble superstars were described. Apparently, especially the twins were somewhat 'wild' at an early age, while a young Barry looked very much like their youngest brother Andy, sadly lost just as his own very promising career started taking off. The Biography also describes the BeeGees major falling out just after they had hit it big and the fact that drugs and alcohol were involved. However, they did overcome their difficulties and managed a very successful comeback just before this Biography was published.
As we all know, they produced many more hits throughout the 80's and 90's, before they retired from touring all over the world. That makes the listings at the back of this book even more impressive as they only cover a few years of their early career - meaning that many more were not included. Sadly, the twins have also now passed, leaving only oldest brother Barry. Nonetheless, their vast variety of songs and soundtracks live on and continue to delight audiences world-wide.

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this photographic essay treasure approved by the group.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is wonderful for Bee Gees' fans, especially if you are interested in their early lives and first taste of stardom. Many wonderful pictures and information about their songwriting. I also enjoyed quotes from the brothers, their family, and record executives. This biography only covers up to 1979, but is still worth reading.

[Tammy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I would have rated it higher if it went beyond 1978!! Full of great stories.