The Bee Gees, consisting of the talented Gibb brothers – Barry, Robin, and Maurice, were an iconic musical act that won the hearts of millions around the world. But, aside from their glamorous lives as singers, their personal lives were just as captivating. And recently, Barry Gibb, the only surviving member of the group, shared something truly intriguing. Let’s delve into the details.
Barry Gibb may sound familiar to you, as he was a British musician, singer, songwriter, and record producer, best known for being part of the Bee Gees. Together, they gifted the world incredible hits such as “Stayin’ Alive,” “How Deep Is Your Love,” and “More Than A Woman.” Barry Gibb’s high-pitched falsetto and exceptional songwriting skills earned him accolades that rivalled those of legendary performers like John Lennon and Paul McCartney.
Gibb’s immense talent was recognized when he and his brothers were inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1994 and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1997. In 2002, he received the prestigious honor of being appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire, and in 2018, he was knighted.
While Barry Gibb’s professional life flourished, his personal life was fraught with unfortunate events. He lost both of his beloved brothers, Andy in 1988 and Maurice in 2003, who he had performed alongside as the Bee Gees. Tragically, Barry and Maurice were not even speaking when Maurice passed away. Robin, another brother, succumbed to cancer in 2012.
Amidst these heartbreaking losses, Barry Gibb found solace in his wife, Linda Gray. They met during a turbulent period when a famous actor attempted to lure Gray away from Gibb. But their love prevailed, and for over 50 years, they have stood by each other’s side through thick and thin, overcoming temptations and adversities.
Barry Gibb is grateful for Linda’s unwavering support, especially during his brothers’ struggles and their ultimate demise. He once said, “My brothers had to deal with their demons, but I was married to a lady who wasn’t going to have it. She never allowed me to go in that direction. I had to deal with my brothers being pretty much out there, but I was lucky.”
Life has tested Gibb’s resilience time and again. He experienced profound loss, not just with the passing of his brothers, but also with the deaths of his mother and father. However, he has learned that life moves forward, and he moves along with it. After the loss of his brothers, Gibb embarked on a successful solo career.
Before meeting Linda Gray, Barry Gibb was married to Maureen Bates. Their marriage lasted four years before they divorced in July 1970, just two months before Gibb married Gray. However, it is his enduring relationship with Gray that has stood the test of time. They first crossed paths on TV’s “Top of the Pops,” where the Bee Gees were scheduled to perform their new hit song, “Massachusetts.”
According to reports, Gibb and Gray felt an instant spark when they saw each other across the room. They sneaked off to a nearby studio, yearning for some alone time. Gibb reminisces, “She was the hostess for one week, the week ‘Massachusetts’ was No. 1. And she’d never heard of it. We just saw each other across the room and something happened.”
In their remarkable journey together, Barry and Linda have built a beautiful life. They now have five children and seven grandchildren. In 2009, they even became American citizens. Interestingly, even before their paths naturally crossed, one of their mutual friends attempted to set them up – even Australian tennis star Evonne Goolagong had made an effort to bring them together!
Barry Gibb confesses that his wife was highly sought after, even catching the attention of legendary actor Steve McQueen. While at the Record Plant in Los Angeles, McQueen tried to whisk Linda away on his motorbike! Gibb reminisces, “She’s a very beautiful woman and had just as many opportunities as me!” But their love and loyalty to each other prevailed, resulting in a blissful life together.
Barry Gibb’s life journey is an inspiration to all, as he has navigated fame, loss, and love with the unwavering support of his wife. Share this captivating story with other Bee Gees fans, as it sheds light on the remarkable life of Barry Gibb and how love can conquer all.
