When songs like these are the soundtrack to your adolescence, you grow up with a different perspective on your fellow man and woman. That's what the boomers experienced.
A special song. It was regularly played on the radio in the months after my brother lost his life in Vietnam. He sacrificed his life in an attempt to retrieve the fallen bodies of two members of his unit. Three more names on the wall.
No body was too heavy to drag out of a fire fight in Viet Nam. My brother didn’t lose his life but was a Marine who manned an 8 inch howitzer cannon. His hearing was affected. So sorry for your loss.
"He ain't Heavy He's My Brother" is taken from a statue at Boys Town, a destination for boys in need, in 1917. The statue is of a young boy carrying his brother.
When Father Flanagan, of Boys Town Nebraska, asked Reuben Granger if it was hard work carrying young Howard up the stairs, Reuben responded with this, now famous, response.
It actually originated in Scotland in 1884 in The Parables of Jesus, written by The Moderator of The United Free Church of Scotland. It was said by a little girl struggling as she carried a big baby boy as 'he's not heavy, he's my brother', when she was asked if she wasn't tired. I knew the expression from school, in Glasgow, in the 1950s/60s.
The phrase “He ain’t heavy, he’s my brother was a legend from Boys Town, an orphanage in Nebraska run by Father Edward Flanagan. The legend states that in 1918, Father Flanagan saw a boy (Reuben Granger) carrying another boy with polio up a set of stairs. Father Flanagan asked if he was heavy and Reuben said “He ain’t heavy Father, he’s my brother”. Boys Town still exists but the also help girls now.
Here's an older version. In his 1884 book The Parables of Jesus, James Wells, Moderator of the United Free Church of Scotland, tells the story of a little girl carrying a big baby boy. Seeing her struggling, someone asked if she wasn't tired. With surprise she replied: "No, he's not heavy; he's my brother."
But to us in England at the time, it was about the human condition and helping one another through life's trials and tribulations. The brotherhood of man, to be concise.
My dad's parents were both dead by the time he was entering 7th grade , his younger brother had polio and at 13 years old in 1936 my dad had to raise his brother on the streets of South Boston with no help ...they slept where they could and my dad did any job for money , delivering ice during the day and setting up bowling pins at night... He fought in ww2 from Africa, to Italy to D day in France to Germany ...then again in Korea. He and many ofvthat era would roll in their Graves at what's happening to this once great country 😢
In 1969, the Hollies didn't have a piano player, which meant calling in an outside contributor. A young Elton John, known back then simply as "Reggie" (he was born Reginald Kenneth Dwight), used to work as a staff songwriter and sometimes a session pianist. One of those gigs was with the Hollies, who got together with him in June 1969 to record "He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother." Elton John played piano for this iconic song and got paid £12 (about $30) for it.
I remember having Crocodile Rock on an eight track in my car. I wore that thing out pretty quick. it was an eight track after all. Elton reminded me of Janis Joplin because of their dress or costumes. You and I seem to have similar ways in music and trivia. I hadn't caught on to Elton being the piano player in this tune. The piano brings Ray Charles, Jerry Lee Lewis and Billy Joel to mind.
We always just knew him as Reg, when he was playing the clubs and doing session work (£12 was the union rate). He played in a few R'n'B groups. The same era when Rod Stewart, Jimmy Page and others weren't hit artists.
The guitar player in the background is a young Graham Nash, that later left the Hollies and joined the legendary trio Crosby, Stills and Nash (and sometimes Young)
Nah - he excluded women. Apparently, sisters aren't allowed brothers or at least aren't allowed to carry them in his world view. The last time I carried my brother was when I spread his ashes. Sorry. This song stirred up some emotions in me, and BPs comment hit a trigger that I'm working on. I like the hippie vibe though.
This song is super special to me. My oldest child out of 4, is now 31 whilst my youngest is 20yrs old. My youngest is a very medically complex and fragile young man and will always need full assistance for his whole life. My oldest called me one day, to tell me that he was buckling down, getting serious about life, his job, and financial planning.....so that when the time comes, he can fulfill his brotherly duty, as the oldest, to take care of his sick brother whenever my husband and I can no longer do so. I cannot hear this song without hot tears burning my cheeks, streaming down my face. It is every parent's biggest concern and biggest fear: who will take care of our special child when we are gone? I am beyond grateful that I no longer have to wonder nor worry. Thank you for your reaction to this song. Just thought I would give you yet another interpretation, though it be for a smaller percentage of the general population.
Thank you for sharing with us your eldest son's decision. I know exactly how you feel, that was my parents first worry (I am one of the "Thalidomide Children") as I'm the only son. My father passed away too early and my mom passed away last month of July. God has been taking care and now I am living my life with the aid of a caregiver, doing my work, being a member of my church. God bless you, your husband and (grown up) children for many years to come. Greetings from very cold Porto (Portugal).
@Almcosta25 Thank you for your words. I am glad you have the help of a Caregiver and are leading a full life. Cold, in Portugal? It is most definitely cold near Chicago.
@edprzydatek8398 Thank you. My oldest son has a deep sense of loyalty to his family and to being a decent and honorable human being. I am very proud of him and of all 4 of my children.
I am 70 years old. Still feel like a teenager when I hear these songs. I was so blessed to grow up in a world where we truly cared about each other. I still have friends from elementary school. And the music--aaaaawwwwww So happy that younger people are digging deep to understand those times.
For whatever reason I always feel vindicated that I liked these old songs and that young people are moved the same way I was by them. It feels good knowing the music will live on.
I lost my brother 20 years ago to addiction. I carried him as long as I could. The first note of this song brings tears to my eyes and makes my heart ache. Lovely and moving song.
My brother was the baby of the family for 7yrs. when I was born. He shined the spotlight on me always. Even when he had to have open heart surgery at 13 that could have left him paralyzed. In his 20's he had a brain aneurysm that ruptured but he fought his way back. Then the heart attacks started. He never stopped smiling and joking. He never stopped being my Hero. He died at 39 but he's still with me.R.I.P Randy❤❤❤
When a sentence starts with: 'There are songs that stir emotions deep within' - this song is on that list!! Stirs up feelings where words aren't needed, even after all these years!
A sad story about this track. . my late husband has two physically and mentally handicapped brothers who he carried them around everywhere as a kid and was a massive Hollies fan too. So this song always sent him over the edge and I'm crying while I'm typing this as hubby died 8 years ago. i saw them live many many times.
The song was written about the slogan for Boys Town. It's on a statue there of one boy carrying another with "He ain't Heavy He's my Brother". Love this song
Was it? I'd never heard of the place, or the little scots girl, and we didn't have Vietnam war here. We just took it as an anthem about being human and caring for one another. We still do care for one another here in UK, as best we can.
The overall theme is the brotherhood of mankind. Meaning we all share the same world and what we need to do is love those around us and help them on their journey when we can. "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."
The Hollies had a slew of hits in the 60's. They were on the radio all the time and radio was where we heard most of the music growing up. I beliveve the singer went on to be a big songwriter and producer they were really talented. I've said it before but the bands in the 60's and 70's sounded so good live its was amazing. They played so much they truly got nearly perfect live in concert.
Or so the Tavistock Institute out of Surrey, U.K as part of GCHQ and MI6 wished all in the U.S. and 'Five Eyes' to think. The 'Hippy Movement' was a deliberate 'Soft/Unrestrained Warfare' attack upon the traditional, family-oriented, Christian U.S. Culture since it was determined too strong for the Globalists, we now KNOW we fight to take down towards the institutionalization of their 'One/New World IMPERIALIST/FASCIST Police State Order.' (Tragedy and Hope by Carroll Quigley or 'Tragedy and Hope 101 by Joseph Plummer' Abridged). 'World Colonization' was the dream for millennia and with the U.S. Revolution, was considered impossible to attain as the U.S. material/human resources were considered mandatory towards accomplishing it.
Love this song and it makes me cry sometimes as we played it at our brothers funeral. Another great Hollies song is “Long Cool Woman (In a Black Dress)”. Hope you check it out.
This is a beautiful, soulful song that expresses the nobility of helping and caring for others. It is probably hard for people today to understand. But, there once was a time when people really, really cared about these themes, and of course, other people.
The Hollies. One of the finest vocal groups ever. Lots of hits in a great musical decade. Graham Nash was with them before joining Crosby, Stills and Young. Great singers all in the Hollies.
My Mom had the Hollies Greatest Hits and I used to play that album all the time as a child. There has never been a time when this song didn't hit my heart when I hear it, so amazing.
This song means a lot to me. In my senior year of high school, my dad was shot and left paralyzed from the chest down. When he was in the hospital fighting for his life, I sang this song at my senior breakfast to honor him. Hard times…..
The Osmand Brothers covered this song. It meant so much to them because there were 2 brothers who were deaf and the brothers started singing to pay for their doctor bills! I love The Hollie’s!
Such a huge song in the UK. Goosebumps every time. My family used it for the funeral of a young boy with no family of his own. We sent him on his way as one of us. I was too young to remember him, or to be there, but I think of him every time I hear it. He's been gone more than 30 years. I hope he knows he's still part of the family.
This song to me, means just careing for others, I wish everyone in the world, would take the message ,from this song and run with it, this world would be a much better place ....
@@SB06184definitely NOT a literal brother... anyone who thinks that was not alive in the 1960s. It's anyone who needs help along the road. It's almost an allegory or parable... the Good Samaritan.
This is one of the haunting songs that sticks in my memory. The other song by Zager and Evans is titled In the Year 2525. I grew up in the Vietnam era when we lost so many to the war.
Graham Nash, who went on to be part of Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young was a schoolmate of Allan Clarke. They grew up performing vocal harmonies. Graham had been one of the founding members of The Hollies.
They come from my home town and went to the boys grammar school next to my girls school. Graham Nash took my friend out dancing one night when he worked at the local post office sorting depot.
Even after over 50 years, I still remember every line of the lyrics. Has been a perennial favorite ever since it was first released. Beautiful song, text, vocals. Thanks for adding it!
An incredible song that has never gotten old. Makes me teary eyed every time. One of the most beautiful songs in the world. The Hollies really knocked it out of the park when they did this one. 😊❤
The lyrics to this song are so relevant no matter what decade we live in… And the hollies just brought it to your soul! So much meaning and relevance to mankind❤️❤️❤️🗣️🗣️🗣️
Years ago, this was used as background for a commercial about having someone close to you going through drug addiction and rehab. One of the best PSA commercials ever.
He ain’t heavy, Father… he’s m’ brother.” is the motto of Father Flanagan’s boy’s home, Boy’s Town since 1918. Here’s the story. Those iconic words have symbolized the spirit of Boys Town for decades. But many people don’t know how it originated. Back in 1918, a boy named Howard Loomis was abandoned by his mother at Father Flanagan’s Home for Boys, which had opened just a year earlier. Howard had polio and wore heavy leg braces. Walking was difficult for him, especially when he had to go up or down steps. Soon, several of the Home’s older boys were carrying Howard up and down the stairs. One day, Father Flanagan asked Reuben Granger, one of those older boys, if carrying Howard was hard. Reuben replied, “He ain’t heavy, Father… he’s m’ brother.” But the story doesn’t end there. In 1943, Father Flanagan was paging through a copy of Ideal magazine when he saw an image of an older boy carrying a younger boy on his back. The caption read, “He ain’t heavy, mister… he’s my brother.” Immediately, the priest was reminded of a photo of Reuben carrying Howard at a Boys Town picnic many years before. Father Flanagan wrote to the magazine and requested permission to use the image and quote. The magazine agreed, and Boys Town adopted them both to define its new brand. Nearly 75 years later, the motto is still the best description of what our boys and girls at Boys Town learn about the importance of caring for each other and having someone care about them. “He ain’t heavy” is relevant beyond Boys Town, though. At some point in our lives, most of us have needed to be carried by someone, metaphorically speaking. And, at some point, we probably carried somebody else. We’re human. We stumble. And we look to each other for help when we do.
It's even in the Bible this story but refers more to the Scottish version than Canadian as Hollies were an English group. Same story everywhere though so is for all peoples of the world.
Allan Clarke is one of the most underrated singers from the 60s/70s. The Hollies had some huge songs, including those you've already listened to. "Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress" would be another one to check out. And, if you want to go further back to the time when Graham Nash was a member, listen to "Carrie Anne" or "Bus Stop".
I’m 73 years old and remember the Civil Rights struggles in America. To me this song was about loving all people. Many feel the 60’s was about sex, drugs and rock n roll, but it was mostly about Peace, Love and Brotherhood. This is why Woodstock with half a million people in tight quarters for days had not one incidence of violence. We could use a LOT of that feeling now.
The Hollies where part of the first British Invasion of the USA. The Band was started by Allan Clarke ( The Lead Singer) and Graham Nash ( Later to be part of Crosby Stills and Nash) Tony Hicks ( Lead Guitarist) and Bobby Elliot ( Drummer) not long after in the early 60’s. They have had many hits in the UK!
See my reply above - the saying originated in Scotland in 1884. I've known it for most of my life and I'll be 78 this month and had never heard of Boys Town until this youtube's comments.
@@willcambeul6172same here, never knew about the Boy's Town story as the Hollies are an English group and we didn't really learn any Canadian historical stories.
Yes, this is a song you will long remember. The message sticks with you. I am a veteran, 1966-68 and most of my buddies are gone now, but we were brothers.
This song came out when I was 10. My older brother, severely handicapped, was 23. I took this song to mean that it was my responsibility to be strong enough to help him however and whenever I could. 50 years later when writing his eulogy I finally realized that I hadn’t been helping him nearly as much as he had been teaching me.
This was played at my friends funeral. He made it clean & sober and gave nearly two decades helping other addicts but damage done before to his liver took his life.
Boys Town, officially Father Flanagan's Boys' Home, is a non-profit organization based in Boys Town, Nebraska, dedicated to caring for children and families. This is the theme song of Boys Town because it's what a boy said upon making it to Boys Town while carrying his brother. was asked if his burden was heavy.
Oh man I’m so glad you did this song. I thought you did it already… this song is so special to so many people. I believe it was written about people who went to war in Vietnam. for me totally different. Me and my brother Anthony and attempt to kill us both in 1984 on March 1 where shot I survived he didn’t it, but we were very close. We were only four years apart and we had gone through an attempt on our lives in 1982…. My God I was only 20 at the time 22 when my brother was killed I grew up very fast I had no choice.! This song was very special to both of us and remain special to me. It’s an incredibly powerful song you’re gonna love it
Listen to Hollies' "Bus Stop". I think it's my fav. The Hollies was a GREAT GREAT GREAT band. This song is spiritual actually. I get tears whenever I hear it.
Huge during the Vietnam Nam war.This love for your fellow human being took on new meaning with all the confusion, love and hate, rebellion against the war and from that, grew a terrible shame and disrespect from many Americans when our military veterans returned home. The age of songs of love and peace emerged for all of us to voice our protest, our pain, our fear and loss. Such a different time and an amazing time for the evolution of music and all creative arts.❤️🩹
This song has a lot of meaning for anyone (male of female) who has carried someone physically emotionally. Fun fact (if some one else mentions this sorry to repeat) this song was used in Rambo 3 the movie.
Fantastic song...the harmonies! The Hollies' music was very eclectic. There were these types of ballads, poppy songs like "Bus Stop" and rock songs like "Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress".
I love your response to this song. I served the U.S. government for 33 years and like you, whether you realize it or not at some time or another we have all carried our brother metaphorically or in reality. Kudos to you for recognizing the true meaning of this song!
This song is so special to me and so many people! I grew up listening to this song. It had tons of airplay on the radio and I knew this song and sang it as a little girl and I still love it and sing along to it today at almost 60. My husband was in the Royal Navy Marines and he loved this song as well, so I sang it to him just a week before he passed away in 2018 from a 17 year terminal illness. I just belted it out and he was smiling and I'll never forget it. Thanks BP!
Wow, I've heard this song my whole life but never took the time to understand it. Wow! Just Wow! I've been doing this my whole life for people and trying to explain myself. Next time I'll just direct them to this song. I've been blessed to be surrounded by autistic people that most people don't understand. They wonder why I put up with them they seem so rude. Why do I because their souls are amazing and if you understand their intent is really more about making sure you're okay. They are the most amazing people! ❤❤❤❤ Lovely song!!!
When songs like these are the soundtrack to your adolescence, you grow up with a different perspective on your fellow man and woman. That's what the boomers experienced.
That's the difference. Our adolescence had a better soundtrack. (1000x better)
Not to mention the marijuana that went with it all. In my case anyway.
In this terrible world today...hopefully Trump will help
Definitely what we experienced as boomers. Miss those times so much. This whisked me back to the Vietnam war era. Tears in my eyes.
Indeed we did.
A special song. It was regularly played on the radio in the months after my brother lost his life in Vietnam. He sacrificed his life in an attempt to retrieve the fallen bodies of two members of his unit. Three more names on the wall.
Bless you. The sacrifices were real, not video games. Love to your family.
@@athenasbodyathenasbody1634 Nobody could say it better 😔
So very sorry for your loss.
No body was too heavy to drag out of a fire fight in Viet Nam. My brother didn’t lose his life but was a Marine who manned an 8 inch howitzer cannon. His hearing was affected. So sorry for your loss.
Your brother is a hero. God bless him and your family. My Dad was POW in Germany. He escaped after 18 months. Thank God he made is home.🙏🙏
This song became the Anthem for caring about others in the late 60s and 70s. Great reaction
We sang this at Glide Memorial Church in San Francisco every Sunday.
This song transcends all race, culture, religion etc and confirms we're all brothers that help each other no matter what!
@@applescreenprint And sisters.
"He ain't Heavy He's My Brother" is taken from a statue at Boys Town, a destination for boys in need, in 1917. The statue is of a young boy carrying his brother.
When Father Flanagan, of Boys Town Nebraska, asked Reuben Granger if it was hard work carrying young Howard up the stairs, Reuben responded with this, now famous, response.
He had POLIO
Thank you, what a special story.
It actually originated in Scotland in 1884 in The Parables of Jesus, written by The Moderator of The United Free Church of Scotland. It was said by a little girl struggling as she carried a big baby boy as 'he's not heavy, he's my brother', when she was asked if she wasn't tired. I knew the expression from school, in Glasgow, in the 1950s/60s.
BTW Spencer Tracy and Mickey Rooney stared in a movie about Boys Town.
If you grew up during Vietnam, especially if you served, this song is written on your heart.
🇺🇸🔱70-73😔
Nothing, absolutely nothing to do with USA or Vietnam. You are trapped in a US view of everything!
God bless our soldiers, thank you 🙏
@@markmason6869 Much respect
🙏🕊️@@markmason6869
The phrase “He ain’t heavy, he’s my brother was a legend from Boys Town, an orphanage in Nebraska run by Father Edward Flanagan. The legend states that in 1918, Father Flanagan saw a boy (Reuben Granger) carrying another boy with polio up a set of stairs. Father Flanagan asked if he was heavy and Reuben said “He ain’t heavy Father, he’s my brother”. Boys Town still exists but the also help girls now.
Here's an older version.
In his 1884 book The Parables of Jesus, James Wells, Moderator of the United Free Church of Scotland, tells the story of a little girl carrying a big baby boy. Seeing her struggling, someone asked if she wasn't tired. With surprise she replied: "No, he's not heavy; he's my brother."
But to us in England at the time, it was about the human condition and helping one another through life's trials and tribulations. The brotherhood of man, to be concise.
My dad's parents were both dead by the time he was entering 7th grade , his younger brother had polio and at 13 years old in 1936 my dad had to raise his brother on the streets of South Boston with no help ...they slept where they could and my dad did any job for money , delivering ice during the day and setting up bowling pins at night...
He fought in ww2 from Africa, to Italy to D day in France to Germany ...then again in Korea.
He and many ofvthat era would roll in their Graves at what's happening to this once great country 😢
❤❤❤❤❤@@murph19611
@@murph19611 You mean they wouldn't be Trump supporters...
In 1969, the Hollies didn't have a piano player, which meant calling in an outside contributor. A young Elton John, known back then simply as "Reggie" (he was born Reginald Kenneth Dwight), used to work as a staff songwriter and sometimes a session pianist. One of those gigs was with the Hollies, who got together with him in June 1969 to record "He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother."
Elton John played piano for this iconic song and got paid £12 (about $30) for it.
I remember having Crocodile Rock on an eight track in my car. I wore that thing out pretty quick. it was an eight track after all. Elton reminded me of Janis Joplin because of their dress or costumes. You and I seem to have similar ways in music and trivia. I hadn't caught on to Elton being the piano player in this tune. The piano brings Ray Charles, Jerry Lee Lewis and Billy Joel to mind.
That is true , but the bassist Bernie Calvert is a very Good piano player,, but Elton is playing on this song and I cant tell the bottom from the top.
We always just knew him as Reg, when he was playing the clubs and doing session work (£12 was the union rate). He played in a few R'n'B groups. The same era when Rod Stewart, Jimmy Page and others weren't hit artists.
Wow, I pride myself on music trivia but never knew this !!! 👍
The guitar player in the background is a young Graham Nash, that later left the Hollies and joined the legendary trio Crosby, Stills and Nash (and sometimes Young)
Brings me to tears, every single time.
This was played so much during Vietnam
He's singing about the brotherhood of all mankind. We should all lend a helping hand to our brothers and sisters everywhere.
This song, to me, is about the brotherhood of man (and women) across the world. It was an anthem for my generation - hippies.
Nah - he excluded women. Apparently, sisters aren't allowed brothers or at least aren't allowed to carry them in his world view. The last time I carried my brother was when I spread his ashes.
Sorry. This song stirred up some emotions in me, and BPs comment hit a trigger that I'm working on. I like the hippie vibe though.
I think Vietnam❤
This song is super special to me. My oldest child out of 4, is now 31 whilst my youngest is 20yrs old. My youngest is a very medically complex and fragile young man and will always need full assistance for his whole life. My oldest called me one day, to tell me that he was buckling down, getting serious about life, his job, and financial planning.....so that when the time comes, he can fulfill his brotherly duty, as the oldest, to take care of his sick brother whenever my husband and I can no longer do so. I cannot hear this song without hot tears burning my cheeks, streaming down my face. It is every parent's biggest concern and biggest fear: who will take care of our special child when we are gone? I am beyond grateful that I no longer have to wonder nor worry. Thank you for your reaction to this song. Just thought I would give you yet another interpretation, though it be for a smaller percentage of the general population.
You're very fortunate that your oldest son has this concern for his younger brother. God bless.
You are so blessed - you and your husband raised a wonderful person...
Thank you for sharing with us your eldest son's decision. I know exactly how you feel, that was my parents first worry (I am one of the "Thalidomide Children") as I'm the only son. My father passed away too early and my mom passed away last month of July. God has been taking care and now I am living my life with the aid of a caregiver, doing my work, being a member of my church. God bless you, your husband and (grown up) children for many years to come. Greetings from very cold Porto (Portugal).
@Almcosta25 Thank you for your words. I am glad you have the help of a Caregiver and are leading a full life. Cold, in Portugal? It is most definitely cold near Chicago.
@edprzydatek8398 Thank you. My oldest son has a deep sense of loyalty to his family and to being a decent and honorable human being. I am very proud of him and of all 4 of my children.
I am 70 years old. Still feel like a teenager when I hear these songs. I was so blessed to grow up in a world where we truly cared about each other. I still have friends from elementary school. And the music--aaaaawwwwww So happy that younger people are digging deep to understand those times.
Well said..feel the same here!71 yrs...
Totally, agree..70 here!
Yep....73 vintage 1951😅
For whatever reason I always feel vindicated that I liked these old songs and that young people are moved the same way I was by them. It feels good knowing the music will live on.
Same, 73 and remember the Hollies well.
"If I'm laden at all, I'm laden with sadness than everyone's heart isn't filled with the gladness of love for one another"
I lost my brother 20 years ago to addiction. I carried him as long as I could. The first note of this song brings tears to my eyes and makes my heart ache. Lovely and moving song.
I feel your pain. Back in the 70's I lost two very close friends to drugs. Even today I still get emotional about them.
Feel you❤❤❤
So sorry for your loss 🙏 my father passed away at 31 united States marine rip Dad 🙏🙏🙏
Lost my brother in 2009 to prescription drug addiction, these song makes me tear up. We played this at his funeral
This song should be on everyone's Playlist. This has held up all this time. The message never gets old.
" Bus Stop"
" The Air That I Breathe"
" Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress"
" Carrie Ann"
" Just One Look"
Don't forget "On a Carousel"
Stop Stop Stop ❤
All from my youth....great memories
King Midas in Reverse and Pay You Back with Interest are two more great Hollies songs!
We need more songs like this today
I’m not sure the young people can relate. 😢😢
It's about being human! No race, judgment just upholding another! Beautiful song we need now!
My brother was the baby of the family for 7yrs. when I was born. He shined the spotlight on me always. Even when he had to have open heart surgery at 13 that could have left him paralyzed. In his 20's he had a brain aneurysm that ruptured but he fought his way back. Then the heart attacks started. He never stopped smiling and joking. He never stopped being my Hero. He died at 39 but he's still with me.R.I.P Randy❤❤❤
What a strong fighter your brother was. What a lovely soul.
I believe that the “brother” is universal-the brotherhood of humans.
..."Class of 76"...US Army Retired 75 - 98...We were Brothers from another Mother...
Thank you for your service. We were all Americans. That's all that counted. USMC 71- 74.
@@glassontherocksmy father passed away at 31 he was a United States marine 😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢 makes me cry ty for your service semper fi
My Father Air Force 72-76.
@@sassymess7111 We are all brothers and sisters of an outstanding generation.
@@barbaramelville337 Semper Fi. I am sorry for your loss. My Father was a Marine as well. He passed from cancer in 2002.
Alan Clarke was something special. Vocal power, heart, and you can feel the passion. He is truly one of the underrated vocalists of all time.
The world needs to wake up and realise, we are more alike than different. JL/The Beatles said it best "all we need is love"
The message in the song is very needed in today’s world.
Every person should hear and know this important and beautiful piece of art. Always brought the feelings.
When a sentence starts with: 'There are songs that stir emotions deep within' - this song is on that list!! Stirs up feelings where words aren't needed, even after all these years!
The fucking Hollies. Musical quality that reaches the soul
Brings this 70 year old to tears. Again.
A sad story about this track. . my late husband has two physically and mentally handicapped brothers who he carried them around everywhere as a kid and was a massive Hollies fan too. So this song always sent him over the edge and I'm crying while I'm typing this as hubby died 8 years ago. i saw them live many many times.
💞💞💞
The song was written about the slogan for Boys Town. It's on a statue there of one boy carrying another with "He ain't Heavy He's my Brother". Love this song
Was it? I'd never heard of the place, or the little scots girl, and we didn't have Vietnam war here. We just took it as an anthem about being human and caring for one another. We still do care for one another here in UK, as best we can.
I am old. This song became the foundation of my life. We are here to care about and for others, always.
The overall theme is the brotherhood of mankind.
Meaning we all share the same world and what we need to do is love those around us and help them on their journey when we can.
"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."
I agree totally. Although 'laden' is the word you're looking for, sister x
It's about ALL OF US LOVING EACHOTHER ❤❤❤
The Hollies had a slew of hits in the 60's. They were on the radio all the time and radio was where we heard most of the music growing up. I beliveve the singer went on to be a big songwriter and producer they were really talented. I've said it before but the bands in the 60's and 70's sounded so good live its was amazing. They played so much they truly got nearly perfect live in concert.
Boys in Vietnam loved this song.
This is the kind of music I grew up with..we had so must positive music about caring for others.❤
The song is about the way we treat each other and is offering the idea of 'brotherly love' as an alternative. The brother is you, me, everyone
Don't forget the beautiful harmonies...they really drive this song home...
This is part of what the hippie movement was all about.
Or so the Tavistock Institute out of Surrey, U.K as part of GCHQ and MI6 wished all in the U.S. and 'Five Eyes' to think.
The 'Hippy Movement' was a deliberate 'Soft/Unrestrained Warfare' attack upon the traditional, family-oriented, Christian U.S. Culture since it was determined too strong for the Globalists, we now KNOW we fight to take down towards the institutionalization of their 'One/New World IMPERIALIST/FASCIST Police State Order.' (Tragedy and Hope by Carroll Quigley or 'Tragedy and Hope 101 by Joseph Plummer' Abridged).
'World Colonization' was the dream for millennia and with the U.S. Revolution, was considered impossible to attain as the U.S. material/human resources were considered mandatory towards accomplishing it.
Love this song and it makes me cry sometimes as we played it at our brothers funeral. Another great Hollies song is “Long Cool Woman (In a Black Dress)”. Hope you check it out.
For the longest time I thought Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress was a different group, but it’s an awesome tune!
1972 GOLD
Long Cool Woman is worth a listen if you want to hear The Hollies rock.
That's Elton playing piano on the backing track... Reg Dwight did a lot of studio work before he was Elton...
This is a beautiful, soulful song that expresses the nobility of helping and caring for others. It is probably hard for people today to understand. But, there once was a time when people really, really cared about these themes, and of course, other people.
The Hollies. One of the finest vocal groups ever. Lots of hits in a great musical decade. Graham Nash was with them before joining Crosby, Stills and Young. Great singers all in the Hollies.
My Mom had the Hollies Greatest Hits and I used to play that album all the time as a child. There has never been a time when this song didn't hit my heart when I hear it, so amazing.
Brings tears to your eyes this beautiful song❤
This song means a lot to me. In my senior year of high school, my dad was shot and left paralyzed from the chest down. When he was in the hospital fighting for his life, I sang this song at my senior breakfast to honor him. Hard times…..
The Osmand Brothers covered this song. It meant so much to them because there were 2 brothers who were deaf and the brothers started singing to pay for their doctor bills! I love The Hollie’s!
The version with the whole family is beautiful...
Osmond.
Such a huge song in the UK. Goosebumps every time. My family used it for the funeral of a young boy with no family of his own. We sent him on his way as one of us.
I was too young to remember him, or to be there, but I think of him every time I hear it. He's been gone more than 30 years. I hope he knows he's still part of the family.
Not just the UK ….here in Australia too and NZ
This song to me, means just careing for others, I wish everyone in the world, would take the message ,from this song and run with it, this world would be a much better place ....
The phrase “He ain't heavy, he's my brother” means that you will support someone, even if they are difficult or a burden, because they are family.
The brotherhood of man, not necessarily your family members.
@@SB06184definitely NOT a literal brother... anyone who thinks that was not alive in the 1960s.
It's anyone who needs help along the road.
It's almost an allegory or parable... the Good Samaritan.
@@julieannmyers8714 I know that. The person I was responding to didn't understand it.
@@SB06184 I was backing you up.
@julieannmyers8714 I'm sorry, I read into it wrong. My bad.
It was a tremendous hit because of everything you said. We all heard it. Stunningly beautiful in all ways.
This is one of the haunting songs that sticks in my memory. The other song by Zager and Evans is titled In the Year 2525. I grew up in the Vietnam era when we lost so many to the war.
In The Year 2525 , if man is still alive.... haunted me as a 12 year old 😢
Graham Nash, who went on to be part of Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young was a schoolmate of Allan Clarke. They grew up performing vocal harmonies. Graham had been one of the founding members of The Hollies.
They come from my home town and went to the boys grammar school next to my girls school. Graham Nash took my friend out dancing one night when he worked at the local post office sorting depot.
Left for a mediocre band, hollies miles better didnt miss nash one bit
@@carlt9265I prefer The Hollies to Crosby, Stills and Nash too.
This is a stunning reaction, one of the best songs of all time.
This crosses all boundaries as you say treat everyone as your brother, blood or not
There were so many songs calling for social change back then. It's just a damn shame that we are still stuck in much the same place 50+ years later.
The military industrial complex and corporate greed kicked in…
Even after over 50 years, I still remember every line of the lyrics. Has been a perennial favorite ever since it was first released. Beautiful song, text, vocals. Thanks for adding it!
It's the brotherhood of Man... all people! When you see someone down... you help them up. Compassion and love.
CLASSIC! That's all I need to say! The reason this was so popular was because it fit a lot of different scenarios, so everyone could relate to it.
This is one of THOSE songs. Goosebumps. Every. Single. Time.
An incredible song that has never gotten old. Makes me teary eyed every time. One of the most beautiful songs in the world. The Hollies really knocked it out of the park when they did this one. 😊❤
This song was the back drop to tribute my brother who died this year, a Vietnam vet. It brings tears to my eyes every time.
The lyrics to this song are so relevant no matter what decade we live in… And the hollies just brought it to your soul! So much meaning and relevance to mankind❤️❤️❤️🗣️🗣️🗣️
I believe the song says every man is your brother and speaks of love for your fellow man.
Remember when songs had a strong message and touch your heart? I wish song writing still had that.
Years ago, this was used as background for a commercial about having someone close to you going through drug addiction and rehab. One of the best PSA commercials ever.
It’s an hymn to humanity. Wonderful.
Hippie anthem.
This is my ABSOLUTELY FAVORITE Hollies song!! Our world NEEDS more of this tuday!!!
He ain’t heavy, Father… he’s m’ brother.” is the motto of Father Flanagan’s boy’s home, Boy’s Town since 1918. Here’s the story.
Those iconic words have symbolized the spirit of Boys Town for decades. But many people don’t know how it originated.
Back in 1918, a boy named Howard Loomis was abandoned by his mother at Father Flanagan’s Home for Boys, which had opened just a year earlier. Howard had polio and wore heavy leg braces. Walking was difficult for him, especially when he had to go up or down steps.
Soon, several of the Home’s older boys were carrying Howard up and down the stairs.
One day, Father Flanagan asked Reuben Granger, one of those older boys, if carrying Howard was hard.
Reuben replied, “He ain’t heavy, Father… he’s m’ brother.”
But the story doesn’t end there.
In 1943, Father Flanagan was paging through a copy of Ideal magazine when he saw an image of an older boy carrying a younger boy on his back. The caption read, “He ain’t heavy, mister… he’s my brother.”
Immediately, the priest was reminded of a photo of Reuben carrying Howard at a Boys Town picnic many years before. Father Flanagan wrote to the magazine and requested permission to use the image and quote. The magazine agreed, and Boys Town adopted them both to define its new brand.
Nearly 75 years later, the motto is still the best description of what our boys and girls at Boys Town learn about the importance of caring for each other and having someone care about them.
“He ain’t heavy” is relevant beyond Boys Town, though. At some point in our lives, most of us have needed to be carried by someone, metaphorically speaking. And, at some point, we probably carried somebody else. We’re human. We stumble. And we look to each other for help when we do.
It goes back even further than that.
It's even in the Bible this story but refers more to the Scottish version than Canadian as Hollies were an English group. Same story everywhere though so is for all peoples of the world.
Great choice! Hollies had a lot of really wonderful songs. Well worth a deeper dive! Excellent reaction! 🌸💐🎄
For sure!
Allan Clarke is one of the most underrated singers from the 60s/70s. The Hollies had some huge songs, including those you've already listened to. "Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress" would be another one to check out. And, if you want to go further back to the time when Graham Nash was a member, listen to "Carrie Anne" or "Bus Stop".
I’m 73 years old and remember the Civil Rights struggles in America.
To me this song was about loving all people.
Many feel the 60’s was about sex, drugs and rock n roll, but it was mostly about Peace, Love and Brotherhood.
This is why Woodstock with half a million people in tight quarters for days had not one incidence of violence.
We could use a LOT of that feeling now.
63 yo Vet, We'zz all brothers.
😢ty for your service.
The Hollies where part of the first British Invasion of the USA. The Band was started by Allan Clarke ( The Lead Singer) and Graham Nash ( Later to be part of Crosby Stills and Nash) Tony Hicks ( Lead Guitarist) and Bobby Elliot ( Drummer) not long after in the early 60’s. They have had many hits in the UK!
He’s talking about society ❤ Although it did start out with the title coming from the statue at Boys Town. Where incidentally, my brother attended.
See my reply above - the saying originated in Scotland in 1884. I've known it for most of my life and I'll be 78 this month and had never heard of Boys Town until this youtube's comments.
@@willcambeul6172same here, never knew about the Boy's Town story as the Hollies are an English group and we didn't really learn any Canadian historical stories.
Yes, this is a song you will long remember. The message sticks with you. I am a veteran, 1966-68 and most of my buddies are gone now, but we were brothers.
This song came out when I was 10. My older brother, severely handicapped, was 23. I took this song to mean that it was my responsibility to be strong enough to help him however and whenever I could. 50 years later when writing his eulogy I finally realized that I hadn’t been helping him nearly as much as he had been teaching me.
Bless you. This is beautiful. ❤
I grew up listening to this song on the radio as a child. ❤ love the Hollies ❤️🎶
This song is Timeless & Universal. We could surely use more songs like this.
The live version is a must❤️
This was played at my friends funeral. He made it clean & sober and gave nearly two decades helping other addicts but damage done before to his liver took his life.
I had six brothers and every time I hear this song it gets to me Tony,Louie,Robert,Mike,Arthur & John Rest In Peace
Brings tears & chill's. It's about all of us being family, loving & supporting each other.
Boys Town, officially Father Flanagan's Boys' Home, is a non-profit organization based in Boys Town, Nebraska, dedicated to caring for children and families. This is the theme song of Boys Town because it's what a boy said upon making it to Boys Town while carrying his brother. was asked if his burden was heavy.
A tale based on the Scottish original that the Father would have read.
Bing crosby played father Flannigan in a film about this,I think.
I'm 71 years old and this is one of my top 5 favorite songs. This has great sound and fantastic meaning to it.
Oh man I’m so glad you did this song. I thought you did it already… this song is so special to so many people. I believe it was written about people who went to war in Vietnam. for me totally different. Me and my brother Anthony and attempt to kill us both in 1984 on March 1 where shot I survived he didn’t it, but we were very close. We were only four years apart and we had gone through an attempt on our lives in 1982…. My God I was only 20 at the time 22 when my brother was killed I grew up very fast I had no choice.! This song was very special to both of us and remain special to me. It’s an incredibly powerful song you’re gonna love it
So sorry for your loss Vin, your brother sounds special…😢
@ thank you❤️
Listen to Hollies' "Bus Stop". I think it's my fav. The Hollies was a GREAT GREAT GREAT band. This song is spiritual actually. I get tears whenever I hear it.
Huge during the Vietnam Nam war.This love for your fellow human being took on new meaning with all the confusion, love and hate, rebellion against the war and from that, grew a terrible shame and disrespect from many Americans when our military veterans returned home. The age of songs of love and peace emerged for all of us to voice our protest, our pain, our fear and loss. Such a different time and an amazing time for the evolution of music and all creative arts.❤️🩹
This song has a lot of meaning for anyone (male of female) who has carried someone physically emotionally. Fun fact (if some one else mentions this sorry to repeat) this song was used in Rambo 3 the movie.
Fantastic song...the harmonies! The Hollies' music was very eclectic. There were these types of ballads, poppy songs like "Bus Stop" and rock songs like "Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress".
Long Tall Woman Yes its a great song from 1972 i was 12 lol Now im 64 The time sure did fly bye faster than a 747
Other really good Hollies songs for reactions are "Bus Stop", "Carrie Anne", "On a Carousel" and "Look Through Any Window". All great songs.
I love your response to this song. I served the U.S. government for 33 years and like you, whether you realize it or not at some time or another we have all carried our brother metaphorically or in reality. Kudos to you for recognizing the true meaning of this song!
The live performance is even better if you can belieive that
This song brought this 6" 4" 250 lb man to tears. God bless those we've lost and those we preserve. Do well.
This song is so special to me and so many people! I grew up listening to this song. It had tons of airplay on the radio and I knew this song and sang it as a little girl and I still love it and sing along to it today at almost 60. My husband was in the Royal Navy Marines and he loved this song as well, so I sang it to him just a week before he passed away in 2018 from a 17 year terminal illness. I just belted it out and he was smiling and I'll never forget it. Thanks BP!
Wow, I've heard this song my whole life but never took the time to understand it. Wow! Just Wow! I've been doing this my whole life for people and trying to explain myself. Next time I'll just direct them to this song. I've been blessed to be surrounded by autistic people that most people don't understand. They wonder why I put up with them they seem so rude. Why do I because their souls are amazing and if you understand their intent is really more about making sure you're okay. They are the most amazing people! ❤❤❤❤ Lovely song!!!
A NAM Anthem. WE ARE ALL BROTHERS AND SISTERS IN BATTLE. I WILL CARRY YOU. YOU WILL CARRY ME Boystown made this song
🤨🔱 3 years70-73😔
Great example of what a bass guitar brings to a melody. So simple, so powerful