Introduction:
“Railroad” is a song that holds a unique place in the extensive catalog of the legendary musical group, the Bee Gees. Released in April 1970, this track marked a brief departure from the core trio, as it was the first solo single released by Maurice Gibb, one of the group’s three brothers. While not featured on a traditional Bee Gees studio album of the time, the song was later included in the comprehensive box set, Tales from the Brothers Gibb, released in 1990.
Musically, “Railroad” ventures into the realm of country pop, a departure from some of the Bee Gees’ more prominent pop and rock sounds of the late 1960s and their later disco era. The song showcases a gentler, more melodic approach, highlighting Maurice’s distinct vocal style and his talents as a multi-instrumentalist, as he is credited with playing lead vocals, guitar, piano, and bass guitar on the track. The arrangement also features notable contributions from Leslie Harvey on guitar, Johnny Coleman on piano, and Geoff Bridgford on drums, with Gerry Shury providing the orchestral arrangement.
While “Railroad” was Maurice Gibb’s first foray as a solo artist, its commercial success was modest compared to the Bee Gees’ numerous chart-topping hits. It did, however, achieve some recognition, particularly in Canada, where it was released under multiple labels. Despite not reaching the heights of the group’s biggest anthems, the song is significant for offering a glimpse into Maurice’s individual musical inclinations during a period when the Bee Gees had temporarily disbanded. It stands as a testament to his songwriting and performing abilities outside the context of the iconic trio. The B-side of the single was “I’ve Come Back,” a track that, interestingly, has never appeared on any other release beyond this single, adding a layer of rarity to “Railroad” for dedicated Bee Gees enthusiasts. While not a major chart-topper, “Railroad” remains a noteworthy piece in the Bee Gees’ story, illustrating the individual creative pursuits of its members during a pivotal time in their illustrious career.
