About the song
“First of May” is a memorable ballad by the Bee Gees, featuring Barry Gibb as the lead vocalist. Released in 1969 as part of their double album *Odessa*, this song marked a significant moment for the group. It was the first single the Bee Gees put out following the departure of lead guitarist Vince Melouney.
The origins of “First of May” are quite charming. Barry Gibb came up with the song’s title inspired by the birthday of his dog, Barnaby. The recording process began in New York at Atlantic Studios and continued in London at IBC Studios. Barry and his brother Maurice worked on the song together, with Maurice playing the piano and Barry providing the poignant lyrics that begin with “When I was small and Christmas trees were tall.” The track was initially recorded as a demo in New York on August 16, 1968.
The final version of “First of May” features a gentle piano intro, followed by lush orchestral arrangements by Bill Shepherd. The song starts softly and builds as the orchestra joins in, creating a rich and nostalgic atmosphere. The structure includes a repeat of the opening verse and a dramatic pause, emphasizing the emotional weight of the lyrics.
On the flip side of the single was “Lamplight,” sung by Robin Gibb. Despite the beauty of both tracks, “First of May” was chosen for the A-side, a decision that led to some tension within the group. Robin was initially unhappy with this choice and left the band briefly, though he returned a year later.
The song debuted on the Cash Box charts at #55 in March 1969 and received praise for its “low-key love ballad” style and “hypnotic arrangements.” Over the years, “First of May” saw several revivals. It featured in the soundtrack of the 1971 British film *Melody* and later in the 1996 Japanese drama *Wakaba no Koro*, where it achieved notable success. The song was reissued as a CD single in Japan, reaching No. 25 on the charts and selling over 100,000 copies.
In later years, the Bee Gees’ legacy continued with “First of May” being performed by various artists associated with the group. Maurice Gibb duetted on the song with his former wife Lulu in 2002, and Robin Gibb joined G4 for a cover in 2005.
“First of May” remains a beloved piece of music history, showcasing the timeless quality of the Bee Gees’ songwriting and the deep emotional resonance of their work.
Video
Lyrics
When I was small
And Christmas trees were tall
We used to laugh while others used to play
Don’t ask me why
But time has passed us by
Someone else moved in from far away
Now we are tall
And Christmas trees are small
And you don’t ask the time of day
But you and I
Our love will never die
To kiss and cry, “Come, first of May”
The apple tree that grew for you and me
I watched the apples falling one by one
And I recall the moment of them all
The day I kissed your cheek and you were gone
Now we are tall
And Christmas trees are small
And you don’t ask the time of day
But you and I
Our love will never die
To kiss and cry, “Come, first of May”
When I was small
And Christmas trees were tall
Doo-doo-doo-doo-doo-doo-doo-doo-doo
Don’t ask me why
But time has passed us by
Someone else moved in from far away