June 28, 2024, 09:52
Barry Gibb performing 'Stayin' Alive' at Glastonbury Festival 2017
The legendary Barry Gibb, of the Bee Gees, delivered an unforgettable performance of their iconic hit ‘Stayin’ Alive’ at the 2017 Glastonbury Festival. The performance was a historic moment in the festival’s 52-year history, captivating the massive audience and solidifying its place as one of the most memorable sets ever witnessed on the Pyramid stage.
Glastonbury 2017 will forever be remembered as the year Barry Gibb graced the stage with his unparalleled talent. As the sun began to set on that Sunday evening, a hush fell over the crowd as the silhouette of the Bee Gees frontman appeared, sending a ripple of anticipation through the hundreds of thousands gathered. Millions more tuned in from around the world, eager to witness this legendary performer.
Silhouette of Barry Gibb on stage at Glastonbury
Barry Gibb, then 75, embarked on a musical journey spanning four decades, treating the audience to a mesmerizing setlist that included some of the Bee Gees’ greatest hits. From the infectious energy of ‘Jive Talking’ and the heartwarming duet ‘Islands In The Stream’ to the soul-stirring ballads ‘How Can You Mend A Broken Heart?’, ‘To Love Somebody,’ and ‘Words,’ each song resonated with the audience, creating an electric atmosphere.
Of course, no Bee Gees performance would be complete without their signature disco anthem, ‘Stayin’ Alive.’ The moment the familiar opening chords rang out, the crowd erupted, transforming the festival grounds into a massive dance floor. For decades, ‘Stayin’ Alive’ has been a global phenomenon, a testament to its enduring power and the Bee Gees’ lasting legacy.
Crowd at Glastonbury during Barry Gibb's performance
Released in 1977 as part of the iconic ‘Saturday Night Fever’ soundtrack, ‘Stayin’ Alive’ played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of disco music. The song’s infectious groove and relatable lyrics about survival in the urban jungle struck a chord with audiences worldwide, propelling it to the top of the charts and solidifying its status as a cultural touchstone.
Over the years, ‘Stayin’ Alive’ has consistently earned its place among the greatest hits of all time. The American Film Institute (AFI) recognized its impact by ranking it No. 9 on its list of top tunes in American cinema in 2004. In 2021, Rolling Stone included ‘Stayin’ Alive’ in its prestigious “500 Greatest Songs of All Time” list, cementing its place in music history. Even Coldplay’s Chris Martin has hailed it as the “greatest song of all time,” a testament to its enduring appeal.
Barry Gibb performing on the Pyramid stage at Glastonbury
While Barry Gibb’s Glastonbury performance was a celebration of music and a testament to the Bee Gees’ enduring legacy, it was also a poignant tribute to his late brothers, Maurice and Robin Gibb. In a heartfelt interview before taking the stage, Barry shared his nervousness about performing without his siblings, revealing that the set was dedicated to their memory.
Barry expressed his deep connection to his brothers, stating, “I don’t like being on my own, I miss them so much. I can still feel them. I smell my brothers’ breath. I get that feeling that they are right there.” He went on to describe the profound bond they shared as a band and as brothers, acknowledging their influence on his solo career.
Robin Gibb sadly passed away in 2012 after a battle with cancer, while his twin brother, Maurice Gibb, died in 2003 due to complications from a twisted intestine. Despite their absence, Barry’s Glastonbury performance served as a powerful reminder of the Bee Gees’ enduring impact on the world of music, their harmonies continuing to resonate through Barry’s voice and the hearts of fans worldwide.
