Introduction:
The song “He’s My Brother” holds a unique and somewhat overlooked place in the discography of The Osmonds. While not an original composition, their rendition of this classic ballad serves as a profound and symbolic representation of their family values, which were at the core of their public persona. It stands apart from their signature bubblegum pop and hard-rock hits, showcasing their vocal talent in a more soulful, contemplative light. The history of this song is intertwined with a pivotal moment in the group’s career, as it was released alongside the single that would launch them into superstardom.
The Osmonds released their version of “He’s My Brother” in 1970, a year that marked a significant turning point for the family band. The song was featured as the B-side to their breakthrough single, “One Bad Apple.” Both tracks were included on their third studio album, titled simply Osmonds, which was released on November 14, 1970. The album was their first under their new name, “The Osmonds” (as opposed to their previous moniker, “The Osmond Brothers”), and was also their first to feature Donny Osmond in a prominent lead vocal role. This new musical direction, driven by producer Rick Hall at the legendary FAME Studios in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, leaned heavily into a polished pop and R&B sound, a sharp departure from their barbershop-quartet roots. While “One Bad Apple” became the smash hit that defined their early 1970s success, “He’s My Brother” offered a more emotional and substantive counterpoint, reflecting the deep familial bonds that were so central to their identity.
The genre of music for the Osmonds’ version can best be described as pop-soul, with strong influences from the easy-listening tradition. The song itself, originally titled “He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother,” was written by the songwriting team of Bob Russell and Bobby Scott. It was first a hit for The Hollies in 1969 and was also a success for Neil Diamond in 1970. The Osmonds’ take on the song, with Merrill Osmond’s powerful and heartfelt lead vocal, infused the ballad with a gospel-like fervor and a sense of sincerity that resonated with their audience. The track’s lush orchestration and gospel-choir backing vocals provided a rich tapestry for the brothers’ harmonies, elevating the song from a simple cover to a definitive statement of their values.
Although it was not a charting A-side single, “He’s My Brother” earned its achievements through its association with “One Bad Apple,” which became a massive success. The A-side track hit number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and stayed there for five weeks, effectively making “He’s My Brother” a part of a chart-topping record. This achievement is a key part of its story; it served as the emotional foundation for the single that established The Osmonds as mainstream pop stars. Beyond its connection to this hit, the song has garnered its own enduring legacy. It has been a fan favorite for decades, often featured in live performances and later greatest hits compilations. The song’s message of loyalty, love, and support perfectly encapsulated the essence of The Osmonds as a family unit and a brand.
The track’s significance extends beyond its musicality; it became an anthem for the group’s “brotherhood.” The phrase “He’s my brother” became a powerful mantra for them, representing their public-facing image of unity and unwavering support for one another, especially for their two older brothers who were deaf. This deeper meaning gave the song a resonance that transcended its pop genre, making it a powerful and touching tribute to their family. It stands as a testament to their ability to connect with audiences on a personal, emotional level, proving that their appeal was not just about catchy tunes and good looks, but also about the genuine bond they shared. In the end, the history of “He’s My Brother” is not a tale of a standalone chart-topper, but rather the story of a powerful B-side that provided the emotional core for a legendary single, cementing the Osmonds’ legacy as both entertainers and family icons.