Maurice Gibb CBE • Singer • Songwriter • Multi-Instrumentalist • Producer

Isle of Man Post Office is delighted to present this collection of stamps honouring Maurice Gibb CBE of the Bee Gees.

Born in Douglas, Isle of Man on 22nd December 1949, Maurice Gibb formed the Bee Gees with older brother Barry and twin brother Robin while living in Australia.

Maurice Gibb was a talented instrumentalist, playing both lead and rhythm guitars, bass and piano, lending his talents to create the Bee Gees signature sound, which remains instantly recognisable to this day. Writing, producing, and creating music with his brothers for the Bee Gees as well as for other artists is a testament to his creativity and drive as an artist.

The magic he created with his brothers has stood the test of time. From ‘Massachusetts’ to ‘Stayin' Alive,’ from ‘You Win Again’ to ‘Alone,’ the Bee Gees created timeless hits that carved their way into the fabric of music that only a few select artists can claim to have achieved. There is no question that the impact of Maurice Gibb’s song writing talent also significantly influenced the multi-platinum success of such projects as ‘Guilty’ for Barbara Streisand, ‘Heartbreaker’ for Dionne Warwick, ‘Chain Reaction’ for Diana Ross, ‘Islands in the Stream’ for Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton, and ‘Immortality’ for Celine Dion. 

Maurice spoke of his experiences “I enjoy producing and song writing very much, but performing live is definitely the most stimulating experience. Nonetheless, when I am involved in writing a song and seeing it born it is a wonderful form of excitement watching it come to life.” 

Providing an insight into Maurice’s personality and creativity in the recording process, John Merchant was the Bee Gees recording engineer at their Middle Ear Recording studio in Miami Beach for 20 years. John also ran the Bee Gees on stage mixing board, supplying the three brothers with their individual in ear monitor mixes on Bee Gees tours. John is now a Professor of Music at Middle Tennessee University.

John writes…

As famous as he and his brothers were, Maurice Gibb remains criminally underrated as a musician. Maurice, known to his friends as Mo, was a multi-instrumentalist who was equally skilled on piano, guitar, and bass. His bass lines in particular are incredible: beautiful and musical, bordering on melodic. His approach to crafting new sounds was unconventional and creative, and his grooves were infectious. (I think your love of the Bee Gees is directly proportional to your ability to dance).

Maurice was the secret element that glued the songs - and his brothers - together. His high harmonies lifted their vocals: listen to the chorus of ‘I’ve Gotta Get a Message to You’ and hear his high B-flat that soars above his brothers’ voices. His string lines added drama and elegance to their music, from their earliest work to the last songs they wrote together fifty years later.

Maurice’s ability to use diplomacy and tact to de-escalate tensions was remarkable, and he diffused difficult moments in the studio and on the road with grace and humour. He could be tough and intense, but he was never mean spirited. He was quick with a joke (mostly terrible puns) in any situation, and he always had a freshly-rolled cigarette in hand. Maurice loved deeply, cared passionately, and he was taken from us far too soon.

Fortunately, we have the music that he and his brothers produced as a testament to his talent. Next time you hear one of their songs, take a moment to celebrate his backing parts, which are as magical and essential as the leads. Every time I miss him, I turn on the radio and have a visit with an old friend, and you’re always welcome to join us.

Guido Karp – Photographer 

With over 1000 album and music CD covers to his name featuring Sting, Robbie Williams, Tina Turner, Paul McCartney, Michael Jackson, Elton John and, of course, the Bee Gees, Guido Karp has established himself as one of the most accomplished and sought-after music photographers in the world.

Guido writes…

In 1990 I heard the guys were very selective about their photography and were looking for a tour shooter. I was up for the challenge and contacted their German promoter Ossy Hoppe.

I loved working with them and we had a real bond. Their kindness and music made a huge impression on me. I captured my last photo with the band in 2001. Losing Maurice was such a blow to the world. I’ll always treasure their albums Main Course and Spirits Having Flown days.

The Bee Gees hold a special place for me both professionally and personally. Maurice’s untimely death in 2003 left behind a legacy of much loved music and memories and I am honoured to see my images reproduced in this postal tribute.

We would  like to thank Maurice’s family for their help and guidance during the preparation of this postal tribute from which they are pleased to support the ongoing work of Nordoff & Robbins, a charity that works tirelessly to improve the lives of so many through music therapy.

Limited Editions: 

Imperforate Sheetlet: 1000

Presentation Pack: 2500

First Day Cover: 3000