When the Bee Gees released How Deep Is Your Love, it quickly became one of their most loved songs. However, behind the romantic harmonies and lyrics lies a surprising chapter in the history of music. The song was at the center of the case Selle v. Gibb, that ended up shaping the way copyright laws are understood.
In 1978, a songwriter named Ronald Selle argued that the Bee Gees had copied his earlier piece, Let It End. The case gained attention because experts pointed out musical similarities between the two songs. But Selle could not prove that the Bee Gees had ever heard his work. The court ruled in favor of the band, setting an important standard for copyright cases: it is not enough for two songs to sound alike; there must be proof of access. This ruling is still referenced in music law today.
Selle v. Gibb Case Brief Summary | Law Case Explained
The story of the case added another layer to how people experienced the song. Listeners were fascinated that such a tender ballad could also play a part in shaping legal history. For many, it made them think differently about how creativity is protected and how difficult it can be to draw the line between inspiration and imitation.
Still, when people return to How Deep Is Your Love, what they feel most is the music itself. The Bee Gees’ harmonies create a warm, soothing atmosphere that has made the song a timeless favorite. The gentle rhythm and Barry Gibb’s falsetto turn it into more than just a soundtrack for romance; it is a piece that carries comfort and reassurance.
Bee Gees – How Deep Is Your Love (Official Video)
At its heart, the song is about connection and vulnerability. It asks for love that is steady and real, even through change and uncertainty. The simple but powerful message has kept it relevant for generations, resonating just as strongly today as it did the first time it was played on the radio.
Explore the Bee Gees’ official YouTube channel which features their music videos. There, songs like How Deep Is Your Love live on, carrying both their emotional weight and their place in history.