“The Hollies’ ‘He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother’: A Melodic Celebration of Brotherhood”

About The Song

“He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother” is a ballad written by Bobby Scott and Bob Russell, originally recorded by Kelly Gordon in 1969, and later made famous by the British rock band The Hollies. It became a worldwide hit, reaching number 3 in the UK Singles Chart and number 7 on the US Billboard Hot 100. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including Neil Diamond, Elvis Presley, and Aretha Franklin.  

The song’s lyrics tell the story of a man who carries the burden of his friend, both physically and emotionally. The chorus emphasizes the theme of brotherhood and support, with the repeated refrain “He ain’t heavy, he’s my brother.” The song’s melody is simple and catchy, with a slow tempo and a strong acoustic guitar riff. The vocal harmonies of the Hollies are also a key feature of the song, adding to its emotional depth.

“He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother” was released as a single in September 1969 and quickly became a popular hit. It was featured on The Hollies’ album “He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother,” which also reached number 3 in the UK album chart. The song was also included in the soundtrack of the 1970 film “Five Easy Pieces,” which helped to further popularize it.

Over the years, “He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother” has become a classic rock anthem, and it continues to be popular today. It has been used in numerous films, television shows, and commercials, and it remains a favorite among fans of the Hollies and other rock bands. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless message of love, friendship, and support.

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Lyrics

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