It’s 2025, so I will ensure that the response reflects that the 1997 concert was a while ago.
A Touching Glimpse: Maurice Gibb’s Solo Tribute to Andy Gibb in 1997
In a rare and deeply moving moment caught on camera during rehearsals for the Bee Gees’ iconic One Night Only concert in Las Vegas in 1997, Maurice Gibb delivered a solo rendition of his late brother Andy Gibb’s song, “(Our Love) Don’t Throw It All Away.” This intimate, behind-the-scenes footage, later unearthed by fans, offers a poignant insight into the enduring bond and profound grief within the Gibb family.
The impromptu performance took place during sound checks at the MGM Grand. Despite the band not rehearsing their vocals at the time, Maurice, then 47, couldn’t resist singing along to the backing track of Andy’s hit. While the moment was cut short by the continuation of the soundcheck, it beautifully showcased Maurice’s deep affection for his younger brother’s music.
A Family’s Enduring Love
Andy Gibb, the youngest of the Gibb siblings, was a successful solo artist in his own right, but his life was tragically cut short. He died in 1988 at just 30 years old from complications related to drug abuse. His death profoundly impacted the entire family, including his older brothers Barry, Robin, and Maurice, and their older sister Lesley Gibb.
Barry and Robin Gibb later spoke to The Mirror in 2009 about their efforts to help Andy, with Barry admitting, “We knew that Andy was in bad shape – he had some bad substance habits. But we never thought we would lose him.”
The One Night Only Tribute
At the actual One Night Only concert in Las Vegas, Maurice, joined by Barry and Robin, paid a collective, heartfelt tribute to Andy. During their set, the musical trio harmonized with Andy’s original vocals from “(Our Love) Don’t Throw It All Away” while footage of Andy played on large screens in the background. This moving segment was captured in the band’s official concert film and live album, released in 1998. However, the recently discovered rehearsal footage of Maurice provides an even more personal and raw perspective on their enduring love for their lost sibling.
Andy originally released “(Our Love) Don’t Throw It All Away” in 1978 as the third single from his second album, Shadow Dancing. Interestingly, The Bee Gees had recorded their own version of the song in 1977, but it wasn’t released until after Andy’s version had already become a hit.
This rare glimpse into Maurice’s private moment with Andy’s song underscores the profound and lasting impact Andy’s life and music had on his brothers, a testament to a bond that transcended fame and tragedy.