About the song
“He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother” stands as a timeless ballad penned by Bobby Scott and Bob Russell, capturing the essence of compassion and fraternity. Initially recorded by Kelly Gordon in 1969, the song gained worldwide acclaim when The Hollies released their rendition later that year, with lead vocals by Allan Clarke. The track resonated deeply, climbing to No. 3 in the UK and No. 7 in the US charts, cementing its place as a classic.
The origins of the song’s title trace back to various anecdotes and publications. In 1884, James Wells recounted a story from The Parables of Jesus where a little girl carrying a heavy boy responded, “He’s not heavy; he’s my brother.” This sentiment echoed through Ralph Waldo Trine’s writings in 1918 and eventually inspired the slogan of Boys Town, a children’s home founded by Father Edward Flanagan in the 1940s. The phrase encapsulated the selfless act of helping others despite the burden.
The Hollies’ rendition of “He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother” was recorded at EMI Studios (now Abbey Road Studios), featuring a sped-up tempo and orchestral arrangements that complemented Clarke’s emotive vocals. Notably, Elton John contributed piano to the track as a session musician, a subtle yet significant addition to its melodic richness.
Decades later, in 1988, the song enjoyed a resurgence in popularity following its use in a Miller Lite beer advertisement. This led to a re-release that topped the UK charts for two consecutive weeks, underscoring its enduring relevance and emotional impact on listeners across generations.
Critically acclaimed for its poignant lyrics and heartfelt delivery, “He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother” remains a poignant reminder of empathy and solidarity. Its universal theme has inspired numerous cover versions by artists spanning genres, reaffirming its status as a timeless anthem of brotherly love and compassion.
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