About the song
“I Started a Joke” is a notable track by the Bee Gees, featured on their 1968 album *Idea*. Released as a single in December of that year, this song marked the end of an era for the Bee Gees, being the last single to include guitarist Vince Melouney, who left the band shortly after its release.
This song was penned primarily by Robin Gibb, with contributions from his brothers Barry and Maurice Gibb. It was produced by the Bee Gees alongside Robert Stigwood, who was instrumental in the band’s success. The single’s B-side was “Kilburn Towers,” but in France, it was replaced by “Swan Song.”
Robin Gibb’s inspiration for the song’s melancholic melody came from an unusual source. During a flight aboard a Vickers Viscount, he was mesmerized by the rhythmic drone of the aircraft, which seemed to evolve into a tune reminiscent of a church choir. This experience sparked the creation of “I Started a Joke,” although Robin humorously recounted embellishing the story for effect.
Musically, the song is set in the key of G major and features a distinct structure with contrasting sections. The verses are built on a sequence of G, Bm, C, and D chords, while the bridge incorporates a different chord progression. The promotional video, directed by Jean-Christophe Averty, was filmed in Brussels and showcases the Bee Gees performing with visual elements like floating question marks.
“I Started a Joke” achieved notable success, reaching #1 in Canada, New Zealand, and Australia. In Canada, it topped the charts for two weeks. In the United States, it debuted at #66 and climbed to #6 on the Cashbox magazine charts.
The song holds a special place for Robin Gibb’s family. After Robin’s passing in 2012, his son, Robin-John Gibb, played “I Started a Joke” as a tribute, finding comfort in its lyrics during a poignant moment.
Critics have described “I Started a Joke” as embodying the Bee Gees’ softer, more introspective style, highlighting its appeal through paradoxical imagery and mystical charm. This track remains a cherished piece of the Bee Gees’ legacy, continuing to resonate with listeners around the world.
Video
Lyrics
I started a joke which started the whole world crying
But I didn’t see that the joke was on me oh no
I started to cry which started the whole world laughing
Oh If I’d only seen that the joke was on me
I looked at the skies running my hands over my eyes
And I fell out of bed hurting my head from things that I said
‘Till I finally died which started the whole world living
Oh if I’d only seen that the joke was on me
I looked at the skies running my hands over my eyes
And I fell out of bed hurting my head from things that I said
‘Till I finally died which started the whole world living
Oh if I’d only seen that the joke was on me
Oh no that the joke was on me