Hello to all music lovers! It’s Dennis Bryon here, and I’m excited to share a glimpse into my drumming journey with the legendary Bee Gees. From 1973 to 1980, I had the incredible privilege of laying down the beats for the Bee Gees on their albums, television appearances, and world tours. This meant I was part of creating nine chart-topping number one singles and countless other tracks that filled dance floors worldwide. If you ever found yourself Dancing Yeah Bee Gees style, chances are, I was on the drums!
Dennis Bryon shares his drumming experience with the Bee Gees
My time with the Bee Gees was an amazing mix of hard work and laughter. The Gibb brothers were not only exceptionally talented but also had fantastic senses of humor. I remember my audition vividly. Maurice greeted me with a big bear hug, instantly welcoming me as “family.” Barry, ever the pragmatist, quickly interjected, “Hold on, Mo. Let’s hear him play first!” Then Robin chimed in with a cheeky remark about my drumming style. Without missing a beat, I retorted with a playful jab about Robin’s singing voice. The room went silent – you could cut the tension with a knife! Just when I thought I’d blown it, Maurice, in his typical brotherly fashion, defused the situation with a hilarious comeback aimed at Robin. The whole room erupted in laughter, and I knew I was in the right place. Maurice truly saved the day, and probably my career before it even started!
Thinking back to the songs, it’s amazing to realize the impact we had. If you’re familiar with the infectious energy of tracks like “Jive Talkin’,” and especially “You Should Be Dancing,” that’s my drum work driving those hits. We also created anthems like “Nights On Broadway,” the tender ballad “Love So Right,” and the globally loved “Children of the World.” The late 70s were a whirlwind of creativity with “Desire,” “Fanny (Be Tender With My Love),” “More Than a Woman,” “How Deep Is Your Love,” “Stayin’ Alive,” “Night Fever,” “Too Much Heaven,” “Tragedy,” “Spirits (Having Flown),” and the soulful groove of “Love You Inside Out.” These songs became the soundtrack to an era, and it was an honor to be the rhythmic backbone.
Dennis Bryon in his early days with Amen Corner
Before joining the Bee Gees phenomenon, I honed my skills in Amen Corner, a soul band hailing from Wales. We were deeply inspired by the giants of American soul from the 60s – Sam and Dave, Otis Redding, The Temptations, and The Four Tops. Amen Corner gave me my first taste of success with five UK hit singles, including the number one hit, “(If Paradise Is) Half as Nice.” This grounding in soul music shaped my drumming style, which I describe as simple, groove-oriented R&B. When I’m in the recording studio, my philosophy is straightforward: serve the song and let it breathe. This approach seemed to resonate perfectly with the Bee Gees’ musical vision.
Recently, ECW Press released my memoir, aptly titled You Should Be Dancing: My Life with the Bee Gees. It’s available now on Amazon and other major book retailers.
Dennis Bryon's memoir "You Should Be Dancing: My Life with the Bee Gees" book cover
In You Should Be Dancing, I delve into not just my Bee Gees years, but the entire journey of becoming a drummer. From childhood aspirations and relentless practice to taking chances and experiencing the incredible rewards, it’s all in there. I also reflect on life after the whirlwind of musical success, looking back with both joy and reflection. Writing this book has been a deeply personal experience, allowing me to revisit decades of memories and life lessons.
My hope is that You Should Be Dancing will inspire aspiring drummers and musicians. If a kid from Wales like me could live this dream, anyone with passion and dedication can achieve their musical goals. I truly believe in the power of positivity, the rhythm of life, and the magic of dreams coming true when you believe.
Looking ahead, I’m excited to be touring Europe next year with the Italian Bee Gees. This talented trio – Davide, Walter, and Pasquale Egiziano – truly capture the essence of the Gibb brothers in their performances. They draw massive crowds across Europe and are genuinely wonderful people. Blue Weaver, another original Bee Gees band member, will also be joining us on tour.
Adding to the celebration of this music, a five-CD box set encompassing the albums I recorded with the Bee Gees from 1974 to 1979, Bee Gees 1974–1979, has also been released this year and is available on Amazon.
Keep the beat alive, keep practicing, and stay connected with Modern Drummer!
