About the song
There are songs that simply transcend their era, becoming woven into the very fabric of our collective musical consciousness. “He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother,” released by the British pop-rock group The Hollies in 1969, is undoubtedly one of those songs. It’s a track that resonates with a depth of emotion and a timeless message of love, loyalty, and the enduring strength of human connection.
Emerging from the vibrant and creatively fertile late 60s music scene, The Hollies, already renowned for their impeccable harmonies and catchy melodies, delivered a song that would define their legacy. “He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother” is a ballad that speaks to the soul, a poignant reflection on the unwavering bond between two people, a bond so strong that any burden, any challenge, becomes bearable when shared.
The song’s power lies not only in its exquisite musical arrangement, featuring the signature Hollies vocal harmonies and a soaring melody, but also in its profoundly moving lyrics. Penned by Bobby Scott and Bob Russell, the words paint a vivid picture of selfless devotion, of carrying another’s burdens without complaint, for “the road is long / With many a winding turn.”
“He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother” resonated deeply with audiences upon its release, capturing the spirit of an era marked by both social upheaval and a yearning for unity and compassion. Its message of unconditional love and support transcended any specific context, speaking to the universal human experience of relationships, responsibility, and the enduring power of empathy.
The song’s impact was further amplified by its inclusion in the poignant 1971 film “Melody,” a coming-of-age story that explored themes of childhood friendship and first love. The film’s use of “He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother” during a particularly moving scene cemented its place in popular culture, forever associating it with themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the bittersweet beauty of youth.
Even today, decades after its release, “He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother” continues to move and inspire listeners. Its timeless message of love and support remains as relevant as ever, a testament to the enduring power of human connection and the profound impact that music can have on our lives.
Video
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
