“The Lights Went Out In Massachusetts” by the Bee Gees: A Timeless Classic from the Heart of the Gibb Brothers
Released in 1967, “(The Lights Went Out In) Massachusetts” marked a pivotal moment in the Bee Gees’ illustrious career. Written by the Gibb brothers—Barry, Robin, and Maurice—this song became a defining anthem, not only for the band but also for the era in which it was born. Its haunting melody, coupled with Robin Gibb‘s evocative lead vocals, propelled it to the top of the charts, securing the Bee Gees their first No. 1 hit on the UK Singles Chart. The song didn’t stop there; it climbed to the No. 1 spot in 12 other countries and reached No. 11 on the US Billboard Hot 100. Eventually, it went on to sell over five million copies worldwide, cementing its place in music history.
“Massachusetts” is a song that resonates deeply with listeners, thanks in part to its melancholic yet captivating lyrics. Interestingly, when the brothers wrote the song, they had never set foot in Massachusetts. The inspiration came during a tour of the United States, while they were staying at the Regis Hotel in New York City. The song was conceived as a counterpoint to the optimistic flower power anthems of the time, such as “Let’s Go to San Francisco” and “San Francisco (Be Sure to Wear Flowers in Your Hair).” In contrast, “Massachusetts” tells the story of a protagonist who, after joining the hippie movement in San Francisco, finds himself homesick, yearning for the familiarity and comfort of home. The metaphor of the lights going out in Massachusetts poignantly suggests that everyone has left for the West Coast, leaving behind a sense of emptiness.
The songwriting process, as recalled by Barry Gibb, was a magical moment for the brothers. Although there are varying memories of exactly where the song was completed—Barry remembers working on it in a boat around New York City, while Robin recalls the initial ideas forming in their suite at the St. Regis Hotel—the essence of the song was a collaborative effort. This synergy between the Gibb brothers is what made “Massachusetts” so special and enduring.
In the years following its release, “Massachusetts” became a staple in the Bee Gees’ live performances, particularly for Robin Gibb, who often performed it both with the band and during his solo appearances. Its impact was further solidified when, in a UK television special on ITV in December 2011, it was voted the third most popular Bee Gees song, only behind “How Deep Is Your Love” and “You Win Again.”
The legacy of “(The Lights Went Out In) Massachusetts” lies not only in its chart-topping success but also in its ability to capture the spirit of an era. The song’s melancholic undertones, coupled with its beautiful melody, make it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences around the world.
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