About the Song
The year is 1968. The Beatles are exploring sonic landscapes with Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, Jimi Hendrix is setting fire to guitars (and the charts), and a trio of brothers from Manchester are crafting their own unique brand of psychedelic pop. While the Bee Gees would later become synonymous with the disco era, their early work reveals a band fascinated by experimentation and studio trickery. One shining example of this early period is the often-overlooked gem, “Lemons Never Forget.”
Tucked away on their second international LP, Horizontal, “Lemons Never Forget” is a quintessential example of the Bee Gees’ early sound. Robin Gibb‘s ethereal lead vocal takes center stage, soaring over a tapestry of lush harmonies, mellotron flourishes, and backward tape effects. The song showcases the brothers’ burgeoning songwriting talents, with Barry Gibb‘s melancholic melody intertwining with Maurice Gibb‘s inventive arrangements. Lyrically, the song delves into themes of lost love and regret, with vivid imagery that evokes a sense of longing and nostalgia.
“Lemons Never Forget” stands as a testament to the Bee Gees’ willingness to push boundaries and defy expectations. While it may not have achieved the commercial success of later hits like “Stayin’ Alive” or “How Deep Is Your Love,” it remains a favorite among dedicated fans and critics alike. Its psychedelic textures, haunting melodies, and evocative lyrics offer a glimpse into the band’s creative evolution and showcase their mastery of studio craft.
So, let’s take a step back in time and revisit this forgotten masterpiece. As you listen to “Lemons Never Forget,” allow yourself to be transported to a world of shimmering harmonies and swirling soundscapes. Prepare to be enchanted by the Bee Gees’ early magic, a magic that would pave the way for their later triumphs and cement their status as one of the most enduring and influential groups in pop music history.