Robin Gibb, Founding Member Of The Bee Gees, Dead At 62

Robin Gibb, a founding member of the Bee Gees alongside brother Maurice, his twin, and Barry, has died at age 62 after a long battle with cancer and intestinal surgery.

Family spokesperson Doug Wright confirmed the news today, saying, "The family of Robin Gibb, of the Bee Gees, announce with great sadness that Robin passed away today following his long battle with cancer and intestinal surgery. The family have asked that their privacy is respected at this very difficult time."

Barry is now the only remaining founding member alive, following Maurice's death in 2003.

Originally from the Isle Of Man in the UK, the Gibb family moved to Brisbane in 1958 where the brothers started a singing career. Settling on the name the Bee Gees, which came from the BGs, a shortened version of their original name the Brothers Gibb, they enjoyed a stellar career with success in every decade from the 60s.

Originally lauded for their Beatles-like and stunning harmonies, particularly present on their 1967 album Bee Gees' 1st, the band are best recalled for their reinvention during the disco period as, essentially, a white soul act. It's from that period that songs like Stayin' Alive and You Should Be Dancing arose.

Robin also enjoyed a successful solo career, which kicked off during a split in the late '60s. Saved By The Bell was one of his first solo hits.

Last year Gibb cancelled a number of shows and appearances around the world due to health issues. In 2010 he underwent intestinal surgery to treat a twisted bowel, the same condition that Maurice died from. Earlier this year he told the BBC that he was making a "spectacular" recovery.

Robin Gibb's Saved By The Bell:

The Bee Gees' Holiday: