About the Song
“First of May” by the Bee Gees: A Nostalgic Ballad of Love and Loss
The Bee Gees, the legendary Australian pop music group, have produced many timeless hits that continue to resonate with listeners across generations. Among their extensive discography, “First of May” stands out as a poignant ballad that captures the bittersweet essence of young love and the enduring power of memories.
Released in 1969 as a single from the album “Odessa”, “First of May” became an instant classic, topping charts in several countries, including the UK and Australia. The song’s enduring popularity stems from its relatable lyrics, evocative melody, and the Bee Gees’ signature vocal harmonies.
The song opens with a gentle piano melody and Barry Gibb’s tender vocals, painting a picture of childhood innocence and the carefree days spent with a loved one. The lyrics, “When I was small, and Christmas trees were tall, We used to love while others used to play”**, transport listeners back to a time of simple pleasures and unbreakable bonds.
As the song progresses, the melody shifts subtly, taking on a more melancholic tone as the singers reflect on the passage of time and the inevitable changes it brings. The line, “Don’t ask me why, but time has passed us by”**, encapsulates the bittersweet realization that even the purest forms of love can be altered by life’s unpredictable journey.
The chorus bursts in with a surge of emotion, as the singers reminisce about a specific day in May that holds profound significance: “The apple tree that grew for you and me, I watched the apples falling one by one, And I recall the moment of them all, The day I kissed your cheek and you were mine”**. This shared memory serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring power of love, even in the face of separation and time’s relentless march.
The song’s bridge offers a glimmer of hope, suggesting that despite the distance that may come between lovers, the bond they share remains unbreakable: “And you don’t ask the time of day, But you and I, our love will never die”**. The Bee Gees’ signature harmonies intertwine, adding depth and emotional weight to this declaration of eternal love.
As the song fades out, the gentle piano melody returns, leaving listeners with a lingering sense of nostalgia and the profound beauty of love that transcends time and distance. “First of May” stands as a testament to the Bee Gees’ songwriting prowess, capturing the timeless themes of love, loss, and the enduring power of memories.
Video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LqB2UXmMZHs