“Released in May 1991, “When He’s Gone” is a single by the Bee Gees from their album High Civilization.
The song was written and produced by the Gibb brothers—Barry, Robin and Maurice—who lent their signature harmonies to this emotionally-charged track.
The lead vocals on this one are handled by Robin Gibb.
Musically, the song features a layered production style with synthesizers, rhythm guitars and a driving beat, combining pop rock with a slight edge of the late-’80s/early-’90s soundscape. It reflects a moment in the group’s career when they were exploring new sonic textures while staying true to their hallmark vocal interplay.
Lyrically, “When He’s Gone” delves into loss, reflection and the emotional aftermath of change—uncommon themes for the group’s earlier more joyful or dance-oriented songs. The result is a piece that marries melancholic mood with polished musicality.
Bee Gees performs “”When He’s Gone””
The song was part of the Bee Gees’ album High Civilization, which was released in 1991 and marked a return to a somewhat more contemporary pop-rock sound for the group.
Though released as a single, “When He’s Gone” did not achieve major chart success in the U.S., but did make a minor appearance on the US Cash Box singles chart (peaking at number 86) and reached number 93 in Canada.
The Bee Gees performed the song live on television: for example, they appeared on the Rick Dees Into the Night show and The Arsenio Hall Show, performing “When He’s Gone”.
The album version of the song is approximately 5:59 long, while the single edit runs about 4:06.
The musical style of High Civilization noted that “When He’s Gone” features “the Gibbs exploring unusual lyrical territory” and using “late 1980s-style glam metal guitar work” among other contemporary influences.
