About the song
“**I Started a Joke**” is a poignant song by the Bee Gees, featured on their 1968 album *Idea*. Released as a single in December of that year, it stands out as a significant track in the band’s history, marking the end of Vince Melouney’s tenure with the group.
Written primarily by Robin Gibb, with contributions from Barry and Maurice Gibb, “I Started a Joke” is renowned for its melancholic melody and introspective lyrics. The song’s composition reflects the Bee Gees’ evolving sound during this period. The verse follows a chord progression of G, Bm, C, and D, while the bridge shifts to Em, Bm, C, G, Bm, Em, Am, and D, creating a dynamic contrast that enhances the song’s emotional depth.
The inspiration for the song’s melody came from a rather unusual source. According to Robin Gibb, the tune emerged during a flight on a British Airways Vickers Viscount. The droning sound of the aircraft seemed to transform into a melodic line that resembled a church choir. This experience, along with a bit of artistic embellishment, led to the creation of the song’s distinctive sound.
Despite its poignant and reflective nature, “I Started a Joke” achieved considerable success. It topped the charts in Canada, New Zealand, and Australia, and reached number six on the U.S. Cashbox magazine chart. Its B-side was “Kilburn Towers” in most regions, but France featured “Swan Song” instead. The song’s promotional video, directed by Jean-Christophe Averty, visually complements the track’s introspective quality with floating question marks and contemplative imagery.
The song holds a special place in the Bee Gees’ catalog, and its significance was deeply felt by Robin Gibb’s family. Following his passing in 2012, his son, Robin-John Gibb, played “I Started a Joke” in tribute, reflecting on how the song’s lyrics resonated deeply during that emotional moment.
Overall, “I Started a Joke” remains a testament to the Bee Gees’ ability to blend haunting melodies with profound lyrics, capturing the essence of their softer, more introspective style.
Video
Lyrics
I started a joke which started the whole world crying
But I didn’t see that the joke was on me oh no
I started to cry which started the whole world laughing
Oh If I’d only seen that the joke was on me
I looked at the skies running my hands over my eyes
And I fell out of bed hurting my head from things that I said
‘Till I finally died which started the whole world living
Oh if I’d only seen that the joke was on me
I looked at the skies running my hands over my eyes
And I fell out of bed hurting my head from things that I said
‘Till I finally died which started the whole world living
Oh if I’d only seen that the joke was on me
Oh no that the joke was on me