Robin-John Gibb, known as RJ, has followed in the musical footsteps of his legendary father, Robin Gibb of the Bee Gees. In a heartfelt interview with Smooth Radio’s Angie Greaves, the 42-year-old singer shared fond memories of his late uncle, Andy Gibb, revealing how despite being only six years old when Andy passed away, he still holds vivid recollections of their time together.
RJ recalled a special bond with Andy, despite his struggles with depression and substance abuse. He shared that Andy used to sing “Bright Eyes” to him, and they often watched the animated film Watership Down together. RJ explained, “I was very close to Andy… He used to sing ‘Bright Eyes’ to me.” His deep affection for his uncle was clear, and he expressed, “I was only six, but I still miss the guy.”
Andy Gibb, who tragically passed away at the age of 30 in 1988 due to a heart attack caused by his substance abuse, had a lasting impact on RJ’s life. RJ’s personal experience with loss is reflected in his recent single “Let It Be You,” which explores themes of loss and grief. The song resonates with many who have experienced the pain of losing loved ones, and RJ explained, “I wanted to frame it in a way that it also touched many people who’ve experienced that.”
RJ’s upcoming album will feature a mix of unreleased material, including songs he recorded with his father, as well as new solo tracks. When asked by Angie about his favorite Bee Gees songs, RJ mentioned “First of May” but added that he enjoys the full range of Bee Gees music, from their emotional ballads to their more upbeat, funky tunes. He also praised the influence of disco, specifically pointing out that genres like House music and EDM wouldn’t exist in the same way today without the impact of disco, stating, “Look at House music, EDM, none of it would be what it is today [without disco].”
Growing up with Robin as his father, RJ was often around to hear stories about the origins of his family’s iconic songs. One particularly amusing memory was learning that “Woman in Love” by Barbra Streisand was partially written by Robin while he was taking a bath. RJ also fondly recalled how his father composed “I Started A Joke” during a flight, using the hum of the airplane engine as inspiration for the melody. “In the drone of the engine he could hear [notes], and so he took the ticket and he started penning down some lyrics, and I still have the ticket,” RJ said.
RJ is not only involved in the upcoming Bee Gees biopic, being produced by Sir Ridley Scott, but he’s also working with his family to ensure the film’s authenticity. He teased that filming for the biopic is expected to begin later this year. Additionally, RJ is writing a musical titled Another Lonely Night in New York, which will incorporate his father’s solo music from albums like How Old Are You? and Secret Agent.
As RJ continues to honor his family’s musical legacy, his latest work is a testament to the enduring impact of the Bee Gees, and his commitment to preserving and celebrating their incredible contributions to the world of music.