About The Song
Many know the Bee Gees for their disco anthems that dominated the late 70s. But before the era of falsetto vocals and dance floor lights, the brothers Gibb crafted beautiful pop melodies with a touch of melancholy. One such song is “First of May”, a hidden gem nestled within their expansive 1969 double album, Odessa.
Released as a single with “Lamplight” as its B-side, “First of May” initially failed to capture widespread attention. Yet, the song’s quiet charm has endured, finding new life through various resurgences. It graced the soundtrack of the 1971 British film “Melody,” a poignant tale of young love, perfectly complementing the movie’s bittersweet emotions. Years later, in 1996, “First of May” even became the theme song for a Japanese drama titled “Wakaba no Koro,” translating to “Those Days of Youth.”
“First of May” stands in contrast to the upbeat pop tunes that dominated the Bee Gees’ early career. The melody, crafted by Barry, Robin, and Maurice Gibb, unfolds with a gentle, melancholic grace. The instrumentation is spare, with acoustic guitar strumming a soft rhythm and subtle piano flourishes adding depth. But the true star of the show is Barry Gibb’s lead vocal. Here, he eschews the soaring high notes that would become his trademark in later years. Instead, he delivers the lyrics with a heartfelt intimacy, his voice capturing a quiet yearning and a touch of longing.
The lyrics themselves are open to interpretation. They paint a picture of a relationship, hinting at past happiness and a present tinged with sadness. The narrator reflects on memories, with lines like “Sunshine used to warm your face/The way you smiled, a summer’s day.” Yet, there’s a sense of distance now, with references to “empty rooms” and “promises we made.” The refrain, “First of May, a long time ago,” seems to mark a turning point, a specific date where things shifted.
“First of May” is a song that resonates with those who appreciate the bittersweet beauty of nostalgia. It’s a reminder that joy and sorrow often intertwine, and that even memories of happy times can hold a tinge of sadness. While not a chart-topping hit, “First of May” showcases the Bee Gees’ talent for crafting emotionally evocative music that transcends time. So, the next time you find yourself reflecting on the past, take a moment to rediscover this gem and let the Bee Gees transport you to a day tinged with both sunshine and shadows.