About the song

Released in the autumn of 1969, “He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother” by The Hollies quickly became an international sensation. This soulful ballad, with its catchy melody and poignant lyrics, has touched the hearts of millions around the world and continues to be a beloved classic.

The song was originally written by Bobby Scott and Bob Russell and was first recorded by Kelly Gordon in 1969. However, it was The Hollies’ version that propelled the song to the top of the charts in many countries. The British band’s harmonies and emotional delivery gave the song a universal appeal that resonated with listeners of all ages.

The lyrics of “He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother” convey a powerful message about love, friendship, and unconditional support. The singer expresses a willingness to carry the burdens of another, emphasizing the strength of human connection. The line “He ain’t heavy, he’s my brother” has become a symbolic phrase representing the idea of helping those in need and standing by one another.

The song’s timeless appeal can be attributed to several factors. First, its universal theme of brotherhood and compassion is something that people of all cultures and backgrounds can relate to. Second, the melodic beauty of the song, combined with The Hollies’ harmonious vocals, creates a timeless sound that has aged gracefully. Finally, the song’s positive message offers a sense of comfort and hope, which is particularly appealing during challenging times.

Musically, “He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother” is a masterpiece of pop songwriting. The song’s simple chord progression and catchy melody make it easy to remember and sing along to. The arrangement features a tasteful use of strings and horns, which adds to the song’s emotional impact.

Over the years, “He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother” has been covered by numerous artists and has been featured in countless films and television shows. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and its ability to connect with people on a deep emotional level.

In conclusion, “He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother” is a true gem of the pop music canon. The song’s meaningful lyrics, catchy melody, and timeless appeal have made it a beloved classic that continues to resonate with audiences today. It is a powerful reminder of the importance of human connection and the strength of the human spirit.

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Lyrics

… The road is long
With many a winding turn
That leads us to who knows where, who knows where
But I’m strong
Strong enough to carry him
He ain’t heavy, he’s my brother
… So on we go
His welfare is of my concern
No burden is he to bear
We’ll get there
… For I know
He would not encumber me
He ain’t heavy, he’s my brother
… If I’m laden at all
I’m laden with sadness
That everyone’s heart
Isn’t filled with the gladness
Of love for one another
… It’s a long, long road
From which there is no return
While we’re on the way to there
Why not share?
… And the load
Doesn’t weigh me down at all
He ain’t heavy, he’s my brother
… He’s my brother
He ain’t heavy, he’s my brother
He ain’t heavy, he’s my brother

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