Introduction:
In this rare 2003 interview and performance clip titled “Robin Gibb – Please,” the legendary Bee Gees co-founder steps into the spotlight not just as a performer, but as a deeply thoughtful artist reflecting on the craft of songwriting. The video opens with Robin being warmly welcomed on stage, a moment made more poignant as the host thanks him for appearing “despite all the circumstances,” hinting at personal or professional challenges he may have been facing at the time. Yet, in true Robin Gibb fashion, he meets the moment with grace and quiet strength.
When asked to explain his view that writing a “commercial song” is an art form, Robin responds with characteristic insight and humility. He recalls a sentiment once shared by John Lennon — that creating music which resonates with a wide audience is one of the most difficult artistic achievements. For Robin, pop music is not merely about mass appeal; it is about connection — finding melodies and words that strike something universal in the human heart. He reminds us that simplicity in songwriting is perhaps the hardest skill to master, and that the truest beauty in music often lies in its most accessible form.
The discussion then turns to the new generation of artists emerging from talent shows like Pop Idol. With the calm authority of a veteran who has seen the industry evolve over decades, Robin offers advice that remains remarkably relevant today. He encourages young performers to prioritize songwriting and musicianship over image or popularity — emphasizing that these are the elements that form the true foundation of a lasting career. His words serve as both mentorship and warning: the music world should not be reduced to a beauty contest, but rather celebrated as a space for authentic creativity and emotional honesty.
Following the brief conversation, the interviewer introduces Robin’s new single “Please,” taken from his solo album Magnet — a project that marked his continued artistic exploration outside the Bee Gees. As the stage lights dim, Robin begins to perform. His voice, instantly recognizable yet tinged with vulnerability, carries the haunting emotion of the song’s lyrics: “So many things I want to do to you… every beat of my heart I’ll be waiting for you.” Themes of longing, patience, and devotion fill the room, revealing a man still deeply in touch with love and loss.
Through this performance, Robin Gibb reminds us why his artistry has endured across generations. “Please” is not just a song — it’s a testament to the power of emotional sincerity in music, and a reflection of Robin’s lifelong pursuit of connection through melody. Watching him that night, one feels the unmistakable presence of an artist who, even after decades of fame, still believes in the quiet magic of a song that speaks to the heart.