Introduction:
“Morning of My Life,” also known by its original title “In the Morning,” is a poignant and enduring song penned by Barry Gibb of the Bee Gees. While its initial recording dates back to 1966, during the sessions for the Spicks and Specks album, its formal release and subsequent journey to wider recognition unfolded across several years and through various avenues. This complex history contributes to the song’s unique place within the Bee Gees’ extensive catalog and its broader cultural resonance.
The song’s genesis can be traced to 1965, during a period when the Gibb family was residing in Wagga Wagga, Australia. This early composition by Barry Gibb reflects a certain folk sensibility, characterized by its gentle melody, introspective lyrics, and an overall atmosphere of quiet reflection. The lyrics employ the imagery of morning to frame themes of love, companionship, and perhaps a sense of hope or new beginnings. This lyrical approach, combined with the melodic structure, lends itself to diverse interpretations and arrangements, contributing to its appeal across different artists and contexts.
While the Bee Gees recorded the song in 1966, the first commercially released version was by Australian singer Ronnie Burns. In 1967, Burns included “Morning of My Life” as the B-side to his single “Exit Stage Right,” which was also a Barry Gibb composition. John Farrar, who later became known for his work with Olivia Newton-John, provided the orchestral arrangement for Burns’s recording, with instrumental backing by his band, The Strangers. This early release, though perhaps not as widely circulated as later versions, marks a significant point in the song’s history, establishing its presence in the Australian music scene of the time.
The Bee Gees themselves revisited “Morning of My Life” on several occasions. In 1969, during a temporary split when Robin Gibb pursued a solo career, Barry and Maurice Gibb performed an acoustic rendition with their sister, Lesley, for a BBC Two special. This performance underscored the song’s versatility and its capacity to resonate in a stripped-down, intimate setting, highlighting the inherent strength of its melody and lyrical content. The group re-recorded the song on September 30, 1970, after Robin rejoined, during sessions for their album 2 Years On. However, this recording was not ultimately included on the album.
A crucial turning point in the song’s trajectory came with its inclusion in the soundtrack of the 1971 film Melody, also released under the title S.W.A.L.K.. This film, centered on a story of young love, provided a fitting context for the gentle and evocative nature of “Morning of My Life.” The slower tempo and nuanced performance in the film version helped to bring the song to a broader audience, contributing to its growing recognition. Its appearance in the film significantly boosted the song’s popularity.
Despite its initial recording in 1966, “Morning of My Life” did not appear on an official Bee Gees album until the release of Best of Bee Gees, Volume 2 in 1973. This compilation album served as a vehicle to introduce the song to a wider international audience as part of their body of work. Subsequently, the song has been included in various Bee Gees compilations and box sets, including Tales from the Brothers Gibb and Mythology. Its reappearance in these collections has helped to ensure its continued presence and discovery by new generations of listeners.
The song’s enduring appeal is evidenced by the diverse range of artists who have recorded their own versions. This attests to the song’s strength as a composition that transcends specific genres or styles. Its gentle melody and reflective lyrics have resonated with performers across various musical landscapes, further solidifying its status as a classic.
In summary, “Morning of My Life” is a song that has had a unique and evolving journey. Written in 1965 and initially recorded in 1966, it was first released by Ronnie Burns in 1967. While not on a Bee Gees album until Best of Bee Gees, Volume 2 in 1973, its inclusion in the 1971 film Melody played a key role in its growing popularity. The song, while having strong folk roots, lends itself to various styles. While lacking specific major awards, its achievement lies in its enduring presence in popular culture and its ability to connect with listeners through its timeless themes.
