The Hollies Celebrate 1988 Chart Success with Classic Song

LONDON, England – On this day, September 24, in 1988, The Hollies achieved a remarkable milestone when their classic song “He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother” reached No. 1 on the UK Singles Chart. Originally released in 1969, the song gained unprecedented popularity and recognition in the musical landscape.

The track, penned by songwriters Bobby Scott and Bob Russell, first saw light when Kelly Gordon recorded it in early 1969. However, it was The Hollies’ version, released later that same year, that garnered international acclaim, peaking at No. 3 in the UK and No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

Nearly two decades later, a Miller Lite commercial reintroduced the song to a new generation, contributing to its resurgence in popularity. Upon its re-release in 1988, The Hollies’ rendition spent two weeks at the top of the UK charts, reaching No. 2 in Ireland and No. 6 on the European Hot 100.

After founding member Graham Nash departed the band for Crosby, Stills & Nash, The Hollies were in need of new material. Guitarist Tony Hicks shared his experience of discovering the song during a 2006 interview: “In the 1960s, when we were short of songs, I used to root around publishers in Denmark Street. One afternoon, I’d been there ages and wanted to get going, but this bloke said, ‘Well, there’s one more song. It’s probably not for you.’” The song caught Hicks’ attention despite its rough demo quality.

The band initially struggled to appreciate the song’s potential, but after making adjustments and orchestrating the music, they recognized its appeal. Hicks highlighted that Elton John, who was then known as Reginald Dwight, played piano on their recording. “He got paid 12 pounds. It was a worldwide hit twice,” Hicks recalled.

Now, over three decades later, The Hollies’ “He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother” remains an iconic piece of music history, with its heartwarming lyrics and timeless message resonating with audiences worldwide.