The phrase “He ain’t heavy. He’s my brother.” has been cited in the written word dating back to the 1880’s. The song has been covered most notably by “The Hollies,” with a young Elton John working as a session musician at the time. Neil Diamond, Bill Medley and many other artists and bands including Gotthard covered the song through the years.

The Hollies He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother 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