The Bee Gees were not only iconic performers but also legendary songwriters. Many famous hits from different artists were actually penned by them. Discover the surprising songs written by the Bee Gees that became worldwide sensations.
Image: Getty Images
The Hidden Legacy of the Bee Gees’ Songwriting
Image: Getty Images
The Bee Gees, consisting of Barry, Robin, and Maurice Gibb, were musical geniuses who revolutionized the industry with their unique harmonies and songwriting prowess. While they are most famous for their own disco-era hits, they also wrote songs for many other artists, some of which became chart-topping classics. Here are some of the biggest hits that you may not have realized were written by the Bee Gees.
“Islands in the Stream” – Kenny Rogers & Dolly Parton
Image: Getty Images
This timeless duet, recorded by country legends Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton, was actually composed by the Bee Gees. Originally intended as an R&B song for Marvin Gaye, it was transformed into a country classic. “Islands in the Stream” topped the charts and remains one of the most beloved duets in music history.
“Chain Reaction” – Diana Ross
Image: Getty Images
Diana Ross experienced a major comeback with “Chain Reaction,” a song written and produced by the Bee Gees. The track, which has a distinct Motown influence, became a massive hit, reaching No. 1 in several countries. The Bee Gees even provided backing vocals, adding their signature touch to the song’s infectious melody.
“Woman in Love” – Barbra Streisand
Image: Getty Images
Barbra Streisand’s powerful ballad “Woman in Love” is another Bee Gees masterpiece. Featured on her album Guilty, the song became one of her biggest hits, topping the Billboard Hot 100. Barry Gibb’s songwriting and production helped create an emotionally charged anthem that still resonates with audiences today.
“Heartbreaker” – Dionne Warwick
Image: Getty Images
The Bee Gees wrote and produced “Heartbreaker” for Dionne Warwick, and although she initially had mixed feelings about the song, it became a major success. The track showcases the Bee Gees’ knack for blending soulful melodies with heartfelt lyrics, making it one of Warwick’s most memorable hits.
“Grease” – Frankie Valli
Image: Getty Images
Barry Gibb wrote the title track for the hit movie Grease, which was performed by Frankie Valli. With its upbeat tempo and catchy lyrics, the song became an instant classic and remains an essential part of pop culture. The energetic production and Gibb’s unmistakable songwriting skills made it a defining hit of the late ‘70s.
“Emotion” – Samantha Sang
Image: Getty Images
Australian singer Samantha Sang struck gold with “Emotion,” a song written by Barry and Robin Gibb. The Bee Gees even provided background vocals, making the track feel like one of their own. “Emotion” became a major hit, proving the Gibb brothers’ talent for creating universally appealing music.
“If I Can’t Have You” – Yvonne Elliman
Image: Getty Images
Originally considered for the Bee Gees themselves, “If I Can’t Have You” was ultimately recorded by Yvonne Elliman for the Saturday Night Fever soundtrack. The song topped the charts and became an enduring disco favorite, further cementing the Bee Gees’ impact on the era.
“More Than a Woman” – Tavares
Image: Getty Images
The Bee Gees recorded their own version of “More Than a Woman” for Saturday Night Fever, but it was the Tavares version that became a radio staple. The track’s smooth blend of R&B and disco made it a standout on one of the most successful soundtracks of all time.
“Come On Over” – Olivia Newton-John
Image: Getty Images
Originally featured on the Bee Gees’ Main Course album, “Come On Over” was reinterpreted by Olivia Newton-John and became a hit on both country and pop charts. The song’s crossover success showcased the Bee Gees’ ability to write music that resonated with a diverse audience.
“Love Me” – Yvonne Elliman
Image: Getty Images
Another standout track for Yvonne Elliman, “Love Me” was written by the Bee Gees and became one of her signature songs. Its melancholic yet captivating melody made it a fan favorite and demonstrated the brothers’ ability to craft deeply emotional music.
“Hold On to My Love” – Jimmy Ruffin
Image: Getty Images
Jimmy Ruffin enjoyed a career resurgence with “Hold On to My Love,” a song co-written and produced by Robin Gibb. The track’s infectious groove and uplifting lyrics helped it become a dancefloor hit in the early ‘80s.
“Eaten Alive” – Diana Ross (with Michael Jackson)
The Bee Gees, along with Michael Jackson, collaborated on “Eaten Alive,” a song recorded by Diana Ross. Barry and Maurice Gibb’s songwriting contributions gave the track its distinctive energy, making it a standout hit in Ross’s catalog.
Image: Getty Images
The Bee Gees were far more than just performers—they were musical architects who shaped the sounds of multiple generations. Their songwriting legacy extends across various genres and artists, proving their incredible versatility. Next time you hear one of these legendary hits, you’ll know the creative minds behind the music.
Which Bee Gees-written song surprised you the most? Let us know in the comments!
