A Heavenly Contribution: Exploring the Bee Gees’ “Too Much Heaven”
“Too Much Heaven” by the Bee Gees is more than just a classic hit; it’s a song with a noble cause, a remarkable history, and a testament to the band’s exceptional talent. Released as part of the “Music for UNICEF” fund, the song not only topped charts but also contributed significantly to humanitarian efforts, making it a cherished piece in the Bee Gees’ illustrious career.
In January 1979, the Bee Gees performed “Too Much Heaven” at the Music for UNICEF Concert, marking its first public appearance. The song was later featured on their thirteenth album, Spirits Having Flown, and it quickly climbed to the number one spot in both the US and Canada. The song’s success was noteworthy as it interrupted the chart dominance of Chic’s “Le Freak”, showcasing the Bee Gees’ ability to captivate audiences with their unique blend of harmonies and falsetto voices.
Robin Gibb once remarked in a 2001 interview with Billboard that “Too Much Heaven” was among his favorite Bee Gees songs. This sentiment is echoed by many fans who appreciate the song’s intricate vocal arrangements and the emotional depth it conveys. The recording process for “Too Much Heaven” was meticulous, involving nine layers of three-part harmony, which created a rich and textured sound. The high falsetto voices, particularly those of Barry Gibb, are prominently featured, adding to the song’s ethereal quality.
The song’s composition was a collaborative effort by Barry, Robin, and Maurice Gibb, who wrote it during a break from working on the Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band movie. This creative burst also led to the creation of “Shadow Dancing” for their younger brother, Andy Gibb. The painstaking recording process for “Too Much Heaven” resulted in a final mix that boasted 27 voices, showcasing the Bee Gees’ mastery in vocal harmonization.
One of the notable aspects of “Too Much Heaven” is its use of the Chicago horn section, featuring James Pankow, Walter Parazaider, and Lee Loughnane. This collaboration added a distinctive brass element to the song, enhancing its orchestral feel. The demo version of the track, which lacks the full orchestral arrangement, provides a glimpse into the Bee Gees’ creative process and the evolution of the song.
Upon its release in late 1978, “Too Much Heaven” embarked on a slow but steady climb up the music charts. By early 1979, the song had reached the pinnacle in the United States and Canada, and it peaked at number three in the United Kingdom. The Bee Gees’ decision to donate all publishing royalties from the song to UNICEF was announced during a press conference at the United Nations, aligning with the International Year of the Child in 1979. The song eventually earned over $7 million in publishing royalties for UNICEF, underscoring the Bee Gees’ commitment to philanthropy.
The song’s impact extended beyond the charts and humanitarian efforts. The Bee Gees were invited to the White House, where President Jimmy Carter personally thanked them for their generous contribution. This moment highlighted the cultural and social significance of “Too Much Heaven” and the Bee Gees’ influence beyond the music industry.
In subsequent years, the Bee Gees often performed “Too Much Heaven” with minimal instrumentation, relying on Barry’s guitar and keyboards, allowing their harmonies to shine even more brightly. This stripped-down version became a fan favorite and was included in their 1989 One For All tour as well as the Tales from the Brothers Gibb box set.
“Too Much Heaven” is a timeless classic that embodies the Bee Gees’ exceptional musical talent, their commitment to social causes, and their lasting legacy in the music world. It remains a beloved song that continues to resonate with audiences, old and new, reminding us of the power of music to inspire and effect change.