Introduction:
The legendary Bee Gees, known for their soulful vocals and disco-infused anthems, surprised fans with a tender ballad titled Happy Ever After in 1991. Released not at the height of their disco era, but later in their career, the song showcases a different side of the brothers Gibb – a more mature and reflective sound.
Happy Ever After is a pop song that carries the essence of the Bee Gees’ signature style – smooth harmonies and catchy melodies. However, unlike their earlier chart-toppers, this song adopts a slower tempo, creating a more intimate atmosphere. The vocals are shared by all three Gibb brothers: Barry Gibb’s unmistakable vibrato blends beautifully with Robin Gibb’s clear tenor and Maurice Gibb’s falsetto, creating a rich and layered soundscape.
The song was produced by Arif Mardin, a long-time collaborator of the Bee Gees. Mardin, who had worked with the band on several of their most successful albums, helped shape the signature sound of the Bee Gees in the 70s and 80s. His understanding of the brothers’ musical strengths is evident in Happy Ever After, where he creates a perfect backdrop for their emotional vocals.
Happy Ever After wasn’t a commercial juggernaut upon its release. It didn’t top the charts or garner the same level of immediate recognition as some of their disco hits. However, the song found a special place in the hearts of many Bee Gees fans. Its heartfelt lyrics and evocative melody resonated with listeners who appreciated a more introspective side of the band. Over time, Happy Ever After became a fan favorite and a staple on the Bee Gees’ greatest hits collections. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the band’s songwriting prowess and their ability to craft songs that transcend eras and connect with listeners on a deeper level.
Despite not being a chart-topping hit, Happy Ever After stands as a gem in the Bee Gees’ extensive discography. It serves as a reminder of their versatility as musicians and their ability to evolve their sound while staying true to their signature harmonies and emotional core.
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Lyrics:
Though I know it’s time to take you homeBaby, you and I are all aloneWe could take a moment of our ownAnd look what we’ve got
You could destroy this heart of mineI’m only trying to get byHiding in the shadows of the nightHolding you and knowin’ the wrong is right
Show me some mercyYou know what you’re doin’ is makin’ me a happy manI shield you from the rainI’ve been slow to get you, but I’m working as hard as I can
This time, it’s what we believe is trueAnd whether you believe I’m in love with youI gotta be sure that you say what you meanIs it only a dream to a teenage queen?And all the years of tears and laughter, we could go throughWill it be happy ever after for me and you? Ooh
Heaven is a place inside of meLivin’ with your heart as companyOnly you can change the way I feelAnd make it feel good
Where there is love there is no crimeI’m only tryin’ to get mineLet me be the one to dry your eyesWe can be the promise that never dies
Light of an angelBlinded by the vision I’m wishin’ we could travel onStay with me, babyAny less than an hour you be leavin’ me lonely too long
And whether you believe I’m in love with you (ah, ah)I gotta be sure that you say what you meanIs it only a dream to a teenage queen?And you define the dream you’re after and make it come trueWill it be happy ever after for me and you?
This time, it’s what we believe is true (what we believe)And whether you believe I’m in love with you (ah, ah)I gotta be sure that you say what you meanIs it only a dream to a teenage queen?And you define the dream you’re after and make it come trueWill it be happy ever after?Will it be happy ever after for me and you?
OohOhFor me and youIt’s what I believe, ohIt’s what I believe, oh
It’s what we believe, ohIt’s what we believe, oh
This time