Introduction:
“I Don’t Know Why I Bother With Myself” is a song by the Bee Gees, released in 1965. This track is a part of their early work and was included as the B-side to their single “I Want Home.” The Bee Gees, a British-Australian band known for their harmonious vocals and pioneering role in multiple genres, were in the early stages of their career when this song was released. The song was recorded when the band was still based in Australia, years before they gained worldwide fame.
Belonging to the pop and beat genres that were popular during the 1960s, “I Don’t Know Why I Bother With Myself” showcases the band’s talent for catchy melodies and intricate vocal harmonies. This song, along with other early works, is an example of the Bee Gees’ exploration of contemporary pop sounds of the time, influenced by British pop and the Merseybeat sound, which was made famous by bands like The Beatles.
Although this track did not achieve notable chart success on its own, it is significant as part of the Bee Gees’ development as artists. This period saw the Gibb brothers—Barry, Robin, and Maurice—fine-tuning their sound, which would later evolve into the more polished pop, rock, and disco styles that would make them international superstars. In fact, these early works contributed to their discovery and eventual signing with the UK-based record label, Polydor, which led to their rise in the global music scene.
The song’s simplicity, paired with the band’s youthful energy, marks a stepping stone in their evolution. “I Don’t Know Why I Bother With Myself” remains a fascinating glimpse into the beginnings of one of the most successful groups in music history, illustrating their early commitment to crafting distinct melodies and experimenting with vocal arrangements that would later become a hallmark of their iconic sound.