About the song
The Bee Gees, renowned for their disco-era hits and iconic falsetto harmonies, continued to explore new musical territories throughout their illustrious career. One such exploration came in the form of their 1991 album, High Civilization. Among the tracks on this album was the poignant ballad, “The Only Love.”
Released as the album’s third single in Europe, “The Only Love” showcased a different side of the Bee Gees. While the group was often associated with upbeat, danceable tunes, this song offered a more introspective and heartfelt approach. Lead vocals were provided by Barry Gibb, whose rich and emotive voice perfectly conveyed the song’s emotional depth.
The lyrics of “The Only Love” delve into themes of love, loss, and longing. With its evocative melody and poignant lyrics, the song resonated with listeners on a personal level. While it may not have achieved the same commercial success as some of the Bee Gees’ earlier hits, “The Only Love” remains a beloved track among fans who appreciate the group’s versatility and songwriting prowess.
Interestingly, “The Only Love” was originally intended for another artist, Kelli Wolfe. However, Barry Gibb decided to write a different song specifically for her, “Born to Be Loved by You.” The track ultimately found its way to the Bee Gees themselves, and it became a standout moment on High Civilization.
Despite its European release, “The Only Love” did not chart in the UK. However, it did reach number 31 in Germany, demonstrating its appeal to audiences in different regions. The single’s B-side featured a previously unreleased live version of “You Win Again,” recorded during the Bee Gees’ 1989 One for All World Tour.
In addition to its commercial release, “The Only Love” was also performed live during the Bee Gees’ 1991 High Civilization Tour. The song’s enduring popularity is evident in the fact that it has been covered by other artists, such as Ana Gazzola, who performed a Portuguese version of the track.
“The Only Love” stands as a testament to the Bee Gees’ enduring talent and ability to create timeless music. While it may not be as well-known as some of their other hits, it remains a valuable addition to their extensive discography. For fans of the Bee Gees and those who appreciate heartfelt ballads, “The Only Love” is a song worth discovering.
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Lyrics
I can relate the story of my life.
No brighter hope, no stronger emotion.
And I believed I could die over you.
How you could ever
Break down and never see me through,
Through my darkest night.
And as I lie awake,
One prayer within me burning.
And there’s no price on what you hold till it’s gone,
Then it keeps moving on.
Where is my heart?
You know I will be waiting to be a part of you
And never feel the pain.
How can you say to me that I should go on living?
I left the only life I had with you.
The only love.
No use in me pretending
To be a part of you
And you the heart of me.
How can you say to me that I should go on living?
I left the only life I had
With, with you.
With you.
So we agree to let each other go.
No long goodbye.
Just your way and my way.
And I can stand how you cried to be free.
High as the wind blows,
But not enough to bring you home to me.
And only lonely knows.
You see my open arms.
You know my flame is burning.
But I’m too blind to see the end has begun.
And it keeps moving on.
The only love.
No use in me pretending
To be a part of you
And you the heart of me.
How can you say to me that I should go on living?
I left the only life I had
With you.
The only love.
No use in me pretending
To be a part of you
And you the heart of me.
How can you say to me that I should go on living?
I left the only life I had
With you.
The only love.
One love that will not die.
You may be sorry that I built my world around you.
The only love
Is only you and I.
There will be others who would leave you as I found you.
The only love.
One love that will not die