Introduction
The Enduring Wisdom of a Citrus: Unveiling the Bee Gees’ “Lemons Never Forget”
“Lemons Never Forget,” a track nestled at the close of the Bee Gees’ 1968 album “Horizontal,” might surprise listeners familiar with their later disco sound. This song is a product of a different era for the brothers Gibb, marked by a heavier rock influence and introspective lyrics.
Written collaboratively by Barry, Maurice, and Robin Gibb, “Lemons Never Forget” holds a message of perseverance wrapped in a quirky metaphor. The central image of the lemon, a fruit known for its sourness, becomes a symbol of experience and the importance of learning from past challenges. The lyrics, with Robin Gibb taking the lead on the refrain, urge the listener to “play it cool” and “think of everything you’ve worked so hard to bring.”
While the exact meaning behind the “apple is a fool” line remains open to interpretation, the core message is clear: don’t be impulsive, stay focused, and remember the struggles that brought you to where you are. Robin Gibb himself noted in the album’s liner notes that the song represents “the end of sorrow, the end of bad stuff.”
“Lemons Never Forget” stands as a unique entry in the Bee Gees’ catalog. It’s a song that reflects on the band’s growth as musicians and their willingness to experiment with sound. As you listen, take a moment to appreciate the catchy melody, the Gibb brothers’ distinct harmonies, and the surprisingly profound message hidden within the seemingly whimsical image of a lemon.