Yvonne Elliman – If I Can’t Have You [1978]

About the song

“If I Can’t Have You” stands as a remarkable testament to the Bee Gees’ influence on the disco era, showcasing their musical prowess and enduring appeal. Written by Barry, Robin, and Maurice Gibb in 1977, this song is a quintessential example of the Bee Gees’ signature style, blending catchy melodies with the pulsating rhythms that defined the disco movement.

Initially, the song was recorded by Yvonne Elliman and featured on the soundtrack of the iconic film *Saturday Night Fever*, which was released in November 1977. The track quickly became a favorite, resonating with audiences and becoming an integral part of the disco phenomenon. The Bee Gees’ own version of the song was released a month later as the B-side to their smash hit “Stayin’ Alive,” further cementing their role in shaping the disco landscape.

The Bee Gees’ rendition of “If I Can’t Have You” was later included in their compilation album, *Their Greatest Hits: The Record*. This song saw a resurgence in popularity with a remix version released in 2007 as part of *Bee Gees Greatest*. This remix marked a significant moment for the Bee Gees, as it reintroduced them to the Hot Dance Tracks charts in the United States after a 28-year hiatus, proving their music’s timeless appeal.

Maurice Gibb revealed that “If I Can’t Have You” was the first track they worked on for the *Saturday Night Fever* soundtrack. The initial recording took place at Château d’Hérouville, capturing a basic version of the song, which was later refined and completed at Cherokee Studios in Los Angeles. This meticulous process reflects the Bee Gees’ commitment to crafting high-quality music, ensuring that each song met their exacting standards.

In essence, “If I Can’t Have You” not only highlights the Bee Gees’ songwriting genius but also their ability to evolve and remain relevant across decades, continually captivating new generations of listeners with their unforgettable tunes.

Video

Lyrics

Don’t know why I’m surviving every lonely day
When there’s got to be no chance for me
My life would end
And it doesn’t matter how I cry
My tears of love are a waste of time
If I turn away

Am I strong enough to see it through?
Go crazy is what I will do

If I can’t have you, I don’t want nobody baby
If I can’t have you, ah hah hah
If I can’t have you, I don’t want nobody baby
If I can’t have you, ah hah hah, oh, do-do-do

Can’t let go, and it doesn’t matter how I try
I gave it all so easily
To you my love

To dreams that never will come true
Am I strong enough to see it through?
Go crazy is what I will do

If I can’t have you, I don’t want nobody baby
If I can’t have you, oh oh oh oh
If I can’t have you, I don’t want nobody baby
If I can’t have you, oh oh oh oh
Oh, If I can’t have you, I don’t want nobody baby
If I can’t have you, oh oh oh oh
If I can’t have you, I don’t want nobody baby
If I can’t have you, oh oh oh oh
If I can’t have you, I don’t want nobody baby
If I can’t have you, oh oh oh oh
If I can’t have you, I don’t want nobody baby
If I can’t have you, oh oh oh oh
If I can’t have you, I don’t want…