About the Song
“How Can You Mend a Broken Heart,” released in 1971, is not just a song by the Bee Gees – it’s a timeless anthem for anyone who has ever experienced heartbreak. Written by brothers Barry and Robin Gibb, the song marked a turning point for the group, showcasing a more mature and introspective sound compared to their earlier pop hits.
The song’s genesis can be traced back to a personal experience. Robin Gibb, inspired by the breakdown of his own relationship, poured his emotions into the lyrics. The now-iconic opening line, “I can think of younger days,” reflects on the past, while the central question, “How can you mend a broken heart?” expresses the profound sense of loss and longing.
“How Can You Mend a Broken Heart” wasn’t just an emotional outpouring; it was a musical innovation. The song’s structure deviates from traditional pop, utilizing a series of key changes and layered harmonies that create a sense of both vulnerability and resilience. The Bee Gees’ signature falsetto vocals further elevate the emotional core of the song, adding a unique depth that resonates with listeners.
Upon its release, “How Can You Mend a Broken Heart” became the Bee Gees’ first No. 1 single in the US, topping the charts for four weeks. It wasn’t just a commercial success; the song transcended its pop status, becoming a universal expression of heartbreak and a source of solace for millions.
Even today, “How Can You Mend a Broken Heart” continues to resonate with audiences. Its poignant lyrics, powerful vocals, and timeless melody have cemented its place as a classic, reminding us that even in the face of loss, there is always a flicker of hope for healing and moving on.
Video
Lyrics
I can think of younger days when living for my lifeWas everything a man could want to doI could never see tomorrowI was never told about the sorrow
And how can you mend a broken heart?How can you stop the rain from falling down?Tell me, how can you stop the sun from shining?What makes the world go ’round?
How can you mend a this broken man? YeahHow can a loser ever win?Somebody please help me mend my broken heartAnd let me live again, la-la, la-la, la
I can still feel the breeze that rustles through the treesAnd misty memories of days gone byBut we could never see tomorrowWould you believe that no one, no one ever told us about the sorrow?
So how can you mend a broken heart? And mine isHow can you stop the rain from falling down? BabyHow can you stop that old sun from shining?What makes the world go ’round? And sometime I have to say, yeah, say
La-la-la, la-la-la, uh-huh, yeahLa-la-la-la-la-la-la-la-la-la-la-la-la-la, tell meHelp me mend my, my broken heartI just wanna, I just wanna, I just wanna, I just wannaI just wanna live again, babyHow can you mend this broken man? Yeah, somebody tell meHow can a loser ever win? ‘Cause, babyHelp me mend my, this old broken heartI think I, I believe II feel like I got to, I feel like I wanna live again
How can you mend, ah, this broken heart? Somebody please tell meHow can you stop the rain from falling down? I know my clothes are all wet, tell meHow can you mend my, please help me mend my broken heartI think I, I believe I, I’ve got a feeling that I want to live and live and live
La-la-la-la-la-la-la-la-la-la-la-laLa-la-laLa