About the song
The Bee Gees, a trio of brothers hailing from Australia, burst onto the international music scene in 1967 with their debut single, “New York Mining Disaster 1941.” This haunting ballad, with its poignant lyrics and atmospheric melody, quickly established the band as a force to be reckoned with.
“New York Mining Disaster 1941” was the result of a collaboration between brothers Barry and Robin Gibb, who penned the song while sitting in a darkened stairway at Polydor Records. Inspired by the Aberfan disaster of 1966, the song tells the tragic tale of miners trapped underground. The lyrics, filled with a sense of despair and hopelessness, paint a vivid picture of the miners’ plight.
The song’s production is equally impressive, with the haunting melody and atmospheric arrangements creating a sense of tension and suspense. The band’s harmonies, which would later become their trademark, are already evident in this early recording.
“New York Mining Disaster 1941” was a critical and commercial success, reaching the charts in both the UK and the US. The song’s popularity helped to launch the Bee Gees’ international career and solidified their status as one of the most promising new bands of the era.
Despite its dark subject matter, “New York Mining Disaster 1941” is a beautiful and haunting song that continues to resonate with audiences today. The Bee Gees’ ability to craft emotionally charged ballads would become a hallmark of their career, and this early masterpiece remains a testament to their songwriting talent.
Video
Lyrics
In the event of something happening to me
There is something i would like
You all to see
It’s just a photograph of someone that i knew
Have you seen my wife, mr jones?
Do you know what it’s like on the outside?
Don’t go talking too loud
You’ll cause a landslide, mr jones
I keep straining my ears to hear a sound
Maybe someone is digging underground
Or have they given up and
All gone home to bed
Thinking those who once existed must be dead
Have you seen my wife, mr jones?
Do you know what it’s like on the outside?
Don’t go talking too loud
You’ll cause a landslide, mr jones
In the event of something happening to me
There is something i would like
You all to see
It’s just a photograph of someone that i knew
Hvae you seen my wife, mr jones?
Do you know what it’s like on the outside?
Don’t go talking too loud
You’ll cause a landslide, mr jones