Introduction
“How Can You Mend a Broken Heart” stands as a poignant milestone in the Bee Gees’ illustrious career, marking both a personal and professional renaissance for the Gibb brothers. Released on 28 May 1971 as the lead single from their album Trafalgar, the song became their first U.S. number one hit, topping the Billboard Hot 100 and holding that position for four weeks. It also reached number one in Cashbox magazine for two weeks.
The genesis of the song is deeply rooted in the brothers’ reconciliation after a period of estrangement. In 1969, Robin Gibb departed from the group, leading to a temporary disbandment. However, by August 1970, the trio reunited, and during their first songwriting session post-reunion, Barry and Robin penned “How Can You Mend a Broken Heart,” a composition that symbolized their renewed bond.
Initially intended for Andy Williams, the Bee Gees decided to record the song themselves, capturing its raw emotion and harmonious depth. The track’s introspective lyrics and soulful melody resonated with audiences, solidifying its place in pop music history. Over the years, it has been covered by various artists, including Al Green, whose rendition further cemented the song’s legacy.
In 1997, the Bee Gees performed “How Can You Mend a Broken Heart” during their One Night Only concert at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. This live rendition was part of a comprehensive setlist that spanned their decades-long career. The concert was initially intended to be their final live performance due to Barry Gibb’s health issues. However, the overwhelming positive response led to an extended tour.
The enduring appeal of “How Can You Mend a Broken Heart” lies in its universal theme of heartache and healing, coupled with the Bee Gees’ signature harmonies. Its inclusion in the One Night Only concert not only showcased the song’s timelessness but also highlighted the brothers’ journey of reconciliation and artistic triumph.
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Lyrics:
I can think of younger days when living for my life
Was everything a man could want to do
I could never see tomorrow, .
But I was never told about the sorrow
How can you mend a broken heart?
How can you stop the rain from falling down?
How can you stop the sun from shining?
What makes the world go round?
How can you mend a this broken man?
How can a loser ever win?
Please help me mend my broken heart and let me live again
I can still feel the breeze that rustles through the trees
And misty memories of days gone by
We could never see tomorrow,
No one said a word about the sorrow
And how can you mend a broken heart?
How can you stop the rain from falling down?
How can you stop the sun from shining?
What makes the world go round?
And how can you mend this broken man?
How can a loser ever win?
Please help me mend my broken heart and let me live again
La la la la la la, la la la la
La la la la la la, la la la la
Please help me mend my broken heart and let me live again
Da da da da
Da da da da, da da da da da, da