Introduction
The performance of “First of May” by Maurice Gibb and Lulu on “An Audience with Lulu” is far more than just a musical collaboration; it’s a deeply poignant and symbolic reunion between two people whose lives were once inextricably intertwined. This moment, which aired in 2002, held immense significance, representing a public reconciliation and a testament to enduring affection despite a tumultuous past.
Maurice Gibb, the quiet musical genius of the Bee Gees, and Lulu, the fiery Scottish pop sensation, were a celebrity power couple of the late 1960s. Their whirlwind romance culminated in marriage in 1969, at the height of their respective fame. However, as the video “The Sad Reason Maurice Gibb & Lulu Divorced” highlights, their union was quickly strained by the immense pressures of their burgeoning careers, their youth, and critically, Maurice’s escalating battle with alcoholism. Their divorce in 1974 left Maurice heartbroken, and while both moved on to new relationships and found stability, the scars of their initial union lingered.
Decades later, “An Audience with Lulu” provided a unique platform for them to reconnect on stage. It’s reported that Maurice initially suggested they sing “Islands in the Stream,” a hit he co-wrote for Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers. However, Lulu, with a deeper understanding of their shared history, insisted on “First of May.” This choice was incredibly significant, as it was the very song they had performed together on television as newlyweds.
The performance itself was a raw and moving display of their enduring bond. Maurice, who had made significant strides in his sobriety in the years leading up to this, sang alongside Lulu, their voices weaving together with a quiet grace that spoke volumes about their journey. The audience, well aware of their past, was visibly moved by this genuine moment of understanding and peace. It was a powerful demonstration that even after a challenging separation and years apart, respect and affection could prevail.
Tragically, Maurice Gibb passed away unexpectedly in 2003, just a year after this televised reunion. This makes their performance of “First of May” on “An Audience with Lulu” an even more cherished and bittersweet memory. It stands as a beautiful, public act of closure and a poignant reminder of the complex, yet ultimately enduring, human connections that shape our lives. It cemented their legacy not just as musical icons, but as two individuals who found a way to honor their past and each other.