Introduction
“In the Now” is an emotional title track from Barry Gibb’s second solo album, released on October 7, 2016, by Columbia Records. This album marked a major milestone in his career: it was his first collection of entirely new material since the final Bee Gees album, This Is Where I Came In (2001), and his first solo studio release since Now Voyager in 1984.
The song was recorded at the legendary Hit Factory Criteria studio in Miami and Megawatt Recording in Los Angeles, produced by Barry Gibb himself alongside John Merchant. “In the Now” was also the lead single from the album, released early on August 12, 2016, as an instant gratification track for fans who pre-ordered the album.
Lyrically, the song reflects on living in the moment, legacy, and the passage of time—profound themes for Barry Gibb, who became the last surviving member of the Bee Gees after the deaths of his brothers Maurice (2003) and Robin (2012). Gibb once shared that he felt like giving up on music, until he rediscovered his inspiration through writing songs with his two sons—Stephen and Ashley. This family collaboration brought a new depth and energy to the album, especially to its title track.
Musically, “In the Now” leans toward classic pop, drawing influences from artists like Carole King and Bruce Springsteen, instead of the country sound Gibb initially planned. The song was well-received for its heartfelt lyricism and Barry Gibb’s enduring songwriting talent. It stands as a testament to his resilience and his ability to reinvent himself and reconnect—with music, family, and fans alike.