About the song

“Too Much Heaven,” a heartfelt ballad by the Bee Gees, stands as a poignant testament to both their musical prowess and philanthropic spirit. Released as part of the “Music for UNICEF” initiative in 1979, the song not only topped charts globally but also contributed significantly to charitable causes, marking a milestone in the band’s career.

Written by Barry, Robin, and Maurice Gibb during a break from filming the Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band movie, “Too Much Heaven” reflects the band’s signature falsetto style and intricate harmonies. The recording process for this track was notably intricate, featuring nine layers of three-part harmony, creating a lush backdrop of 27 voices that define its ethereal sound.

Upon its release, “Too Much Heaven” swiftly ascended to number one on both the US Billboard Hot 100 and the Canadian charts, underscoring its universal appeal. In the United Kingdom, it peaked at number three, further solidifying its popularity across diverse audiences. This success added another feather to the Bee Gees’ cap, making it their fourth consecutive number-one hit in the US, a feat equaled only by musical legends like Bing Crosby, Elvis Presley, and the Beatles.

The song’s significance extended beyond its chart achievements. As part of their commitment to UNICEF and the International Year of the Child in 1979, the Bee Gees pledged all publishing royalties from “Too Much Heaven” to the organization. This gesture not only raised substantial funds—over $7 million—but also garnered recognition from global leaders. The band was honored at the White House by President Jimmy Carter, where they presented him with a symbolic gift and received heartfelt thanks for their humanitarian efforts.

Critically acclaimed for its gentle melody and soaring falsettos, “Too Much Heaven” continues to resonate with listeners and critics alike. Cash Box described it as “gentle and silky,” praising the Bee Gees’ trademark harmonies, while Record World hailed it as a “flowing ballad” with a light touch. Brian Wilson of the Beach Boys also commended the band’s vocal harmonies, highlighting their exceptional talent in creating intricate musical textures.

In subsequent years, the Bee Gees revisited “Too Much Heaven” in various performances, including stripped-down versions during their 1989 One For All tour. This enduring appeal underscores the song’s timeless quality and its enduring place in the Bee Gees’ repertoire.

In essence, “Too Much Heaven” not only showcases the Bee Gees’ musical craftsmanship but also exemplifies their commitment to making a positive impact through their artistry. Its legacy as a chart-topping hit with a charitable mission remains a testament to the enduring power of music to uplift and inspire.

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Lyrics

Nobody gets too much heaven no more
It’s much harder to come by
I’m waiting in line
Nobody gets too much love anymore
It’s as high as a mountain
And harder to climb
Oh you and me girl
Got a lot of love in store
And it flows through you
And it flows through me
And I love you so much more
Then my life, I can see beyond forever
Everything we are will never die
Loving’s such a beautiful thing
Oh you make my world, a summer day
Are you just a dream to fade away
Nobody gets too much heaven no more
It’s much harder to come by
I’m waiting in line
Nobody gets too much love anymore
It’s as high as a mountain
And harder to climb
You and me girl got a highway to the sky
We can turn away from the night and day
And the tears you had to cry
You’re my life
I can see a new tomorrow
Everything we are will never die
Loving’s such a beautiful thing
When you are to me, the light above
Made for all to see our precious love
Nobody gets too much heaven no more
It’s much harder to come by
I’m waiting in line
Nobody gets too much love anymore
It’s as high as a mountain
And harder to climb
Love is such a beautiful thing
You make my world a summer day
Are you just a dream to fade away
Nobody gets too much heaven no more
It’s much harder to come by
I’m waiting in line
Nobody gets too much love anymore
It’s as wide as a river
And harder to climb
Nobody gets too much heaven no more
It’s much harder to come by
I’m waiting in line
Nobody gets too much love anymore
It’s as high as a mountain
And harder to climb
Nobody gets too much heaven no more
It’s much harder to come by
I’m waiting in line
Nobody gets too much love anymore
It’s as high as a mountain
And harder to climb

 

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