Introduction
“Stayin’ Alive” is a disco anthem by the Bee Gees, released on December 15, 1977, as part of the Saturday Night Fever soundtrack. Composed by Barry, Robin, and Maurice Gibb, the song became a global sensation, topping the Billboard Hot 100 for four consecutive weeks in early 1978 .
Recorded in France and Miami, the track features a distinctive bass line and falsetto vocals, with Maurice Gibb on bass, Barry Gibb and Alan Kendall on guitars, and Blue Weaver on synthesizers. Notably, the song’s rhythm was created by looping two bars from the Bee Gees’ earlier hit “Night Fever,” due to a shortage of qualified drummers during recording .
Beyond its musical success, “Stayin’ Alive” has had a significant impact on public health. Its tempo of 103 beats per minute aligns closely with the recommended rate for chest compressions during CPR, making it a useful tool for training and performing the life-saving procedure .
The song’s enduring popularity is also reflected in its critical acclaim. In 2004, Rolling Stone ranked it No. 189 on its list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time, and in 2021, it was elevated to No. 99 on the updated list .
“Stayin’ Alive” remains a testament to the Bee Gees’ musical legacy, blending infectious rhythms with a message of resilience and survival.