At the 46th Kennedy Center Honors, Michael Bublé delivered a powerful tribute to Barry Gibb, the last surviving member of the iconic Bee Gees. Before performing a stirring rendition of “How Can You Mend a Broken Heart?” Bublé shared a personal story about the pivotal role Gibb played in his early career, revealing how the Bee Gees legend helped shape his path to success.

Before Bublé became the internationally recognized artist he is today, he was a young, aspiring singer striving to break into the music world. At the Kennedy Center Honors, he reminisced about his early days trying to make a name for himself in the competitive music industry.

“Before anyone knew who I was, I had to find a way to stand out,” Bublé, now 49, explained to the audience. “And there was only one song that could do it. ‘How Can You Mend a Broken Heart?’”

This classic song, written by Barry and his late brothers Maurice and Robin, had a profound impact on Bublé’s career. The Bee Gees, famed for their distinct harmonies and high-pitched falsetto vocals, reached global fame, earning numerous accolades, including five Grammy Awards for their work on the Saturday Night Fever soundtrack. After the untimely deaths of Maurice and Robin, Barry Gibb continued to enjoy success as a solo artist. But beyond his musical achievements, Gibb also played a significant role in guiding young talent, including Bublé.

In his heartfelt tribute, Bublé revealed that it wasn’t just a song that connected him to Gibb—it was also the personal support that Barry offered early in his career. “By chance, I made a demo, and somehow it reached Barry himself,” Bublé recalled. “Not only did he offer me words of advice, but he was kind enough to lend his voice and record with me.” Gibb, 78, recorded backup vocals for Bublé’s 2003 version of “How Can You Mend a Broken Heart,” a track featured on his debut album.

Fast forward to 2023, and Bublé found himself on stage at the Kennedy Center Honors, performing that very same song, this time as a tribute to the man who had once helped him. Bublé’s performance was nothing short of mesmerizing. His rich voice filled the room with emotion, paying homage to the music that had shaped his career and to Gibb, whose contributions had profoundly impacted Bublé’s path.

As Bublé sang, Barry Gibb could be seen in the audience, visibly moved by the performance. He joined in, softly singing along to the poignant lyrics, which had been penned by him and Robin Gibb in 1971. When the song came to a close, Bublé blew a kiss to Gibb, mouthing a sincere “Thank you.” It was a full-circle moment for Bublé, who had come a long way from being an aspiring artist to performing in front of music legends at one of the most prestigious events in the industry.

The room was filled with admiration as Bublé’s tribute to Gibb unfolded. The performance became a celebration of not only Gibb’s legendary career but also the deep connection between two artists across generations. It was a magical moment that transcended music, a testament to the bonds that are forged through art and shared experiences.

Bublé’s tribute was not just a performance but a heartfelt gesture of gratitude toward a man who had played a significant role in his rise to stardom. The night became an unforgettable celebration of music, inspiration, and the enduring power of mentorship. Through this moving tribute, Bublé showed his deep respect and appreciation for Barry Gibb, whose influence on the music world continues to resonate across generations.