About the song
The Bee Gees, renowned for their distinctive harmonies and disco anthems, surprised many fans with their heartfelt ballad, “Alone.” Released in 1997 as the lead single from their album Still Waters, this track showcased a more mature and introspective side to the group.
“Alone” is a poignant exploration of solitude and longing. The song’s lyrics, penned by the Gibb brothers, evoke a sense of deep emotional isolation. The opening line, “Sitting here, all alone,” immediately sets the tone, inviting listeners to contemplate their own experiences of loneliness. The ballad’s melody is both haunting and beautiful, perfectly complementing the somber subject matter.
Musically, “Alone” is a departure from the upbeat, dance-oriented sound that the Bee Gees had become associated with in the 1970s. The arrangement is stripped down, featuring a simple piano accompaniment and lush string arrangements. This minimalist approach allows the vocals to take center stage, highlighting the emotional depth of the song.
The choice of “Alone” as the lead single for Still Waters was a bold move by the Bee Gees. After years of commercial success with their disco-era hits, the group was taking a risk by releasing a ballad that was more akin to their earlier, folk-influenced work. However, the gamble paid off, as “Alone” became a worldwide hit, proving that the Bee Gees were still capable of creating timeless music.
The album Still Waters itself is a collection of introspective and mature songs that showcase the group’s songwriting abilities. While the album may not have achieved the same commercial success as their disco-era albums, it is a critical favorite among fans and critics alike. The album’s title is a reference to the calm and serenity that can be found in solitude, a theme that is explored throughout the record.
“Alone” is a testament to the enduring appeal of the Bee Gees. The song’s universal themes of love, loss, and longing have resonated with audiences for generations. It is a reminder that even the most successful pop artists can create music that is both commercially successful and artistically satisfying.
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Lyrics
I was a midnight rider on a cloud of smoke
I could make a woman hang on every single stroke
I was an iron man, I had a master plan
But I was alone
I could hear you breathing with a sigh of the wind
I remember how your body started trembling
Oh, what a night it’s been for the state I’m in
I’m still alone
And all the wonders made for the earth
And all the hearts in all creation
Somehow I always end up alone (always end up alone)
Always end up alone
So I’ll play, I’ll wait
‘Cause you know that love takes time
We came so far
Just the beat of a lonely heart
And it’s mine
And I don’t wanna be alone
Well, since I got no message on your answer phone
Since you’re busy every minute, I just stay at home
I make believe you care, I feel you everywhere
But I’m still alone
I’m on a wheel of fortune with a twist of fate
‘Cause I know it isn’t heaven, is it love or hate?
Am I the subject of the pain?
Am I the stranger in the rain?
I am alone
And is there glory there to behold?
Maybe it’s my imagination
Another story there to be told
So I’ll play, I’ll wait
And I pray it’s not too late
We made it so far
Just the beat of a lonely heart
And it’s mine
And I don’t wanna be alone
And all the wonders made for the earth
And all the hearts in all creation
Another story there to be told
So I’ll play, I’ll wait
And I pray it’s not too late
We made it so far
Just the beat of a lonely heart
And it’s mine
And I don’t wanna be alone
Gone but not out of sight
I’m caught in the rain and there’s no one home
Face the heat of the night
The one that you love got a heart that’s made of stone
Shine and search for the light
And sooner or later you’ll be cruising on your ocean
And clean out of site
I’m caught in the rain and there’s no one home