About the song
“(The Lights Went Out In) Massachusetts” is a memorable song by the Bee Gees, written by Barry, Robin, and Maurice Gibb, and released in 1967. Robin Gibb took on the lead vocals for this track, which quickly became a defining piece of his performance repertoire both with the Bee Gees and in his solo career. This song was featured on the Bee Gees’ 1968 album *Horizontal*.
This iconic track marked a significant milestone for the Bee Gees, becoming their first number one hit on the UK Singles Chart. It also achieved impressive success worldwide, topping the charts in twelve other countries and selling over five million copies. Although the song reached number eleven on the US Billboard Hot 100, its global impact was undeniable.
Interestingly, the Gibb brothers had never been to Massachusetts when they wrote the song. The inspiration came during their stay at the Regis Hotel in New York City. They crafted the song as a contrast to the prevalent flower power anthems of the time, using the idea of the lights going out in Massachusetts as a metaphor for the protagonist’s homesickness after visiting San Francisco.
Barry Gibb recalls that the creation of the song involved a blend of high energy and creativity, including moments of writing while exploring New York City. Originally intended for The Seekers, the Bee Gees ended up recording it themselves after failing to hand it over to the group. In a touching tribute, The Seekers recorded the song in 2003 in honor of Maurice Gibb after his passing.
The song was recorded at IBC Studios in London and was completed in August 1967. It features a renowned orchestral score by Bill Shepherd, which Barry Gibb praised as one of the arranger’s finest works. The release of “Massachusetts” also came at a time of significant personal and professional challenges for the Bee Gees, including protests by fans to prevent the deportation of band members Colin Petersen and Vince Melouney.
Released under the title “Massachusetts (The Lights Went Out In)” in the UK, and later simplified to “Massachusetts” in the US, the song gained further distinction as the second record ever played on BBC Radio 1. It was also the first number one hit by a non-Japanese artist on Japan’s Oricon Singles Chart. With its rich orchestration and heartfelt lyrics, “(The Lights Went Out In) Massachusetts” remains a cherished classic in the Bee Gees’ illustrious musical legacy.
Video
Lyrics
Feel I’m goin’ back to Massachusetts
Something’s telling me I must go home
And the lights all went out in Massachusetts
The day I left her standing on her own
Tried to hitch a ride to San Francisco
Gotta do the things I wanna do
And the lights all went out in Massachusetts
They brought me back to see my way with you
Talk about the life in Massachusetts
Speak about the people I have seen
And the lights all went out in Massachusetts
And Massachusetts is one place I have seen
I will remember Massachusetts
I will remember Massachusetts
Ah-ahh