Three Dog Night – One

“One” is a poignant rock ballad originally written and recorded by American singer-songwriter Harry Nilsson for his 1968 album Aerial Ballet. The song delves into themes of loneliness and isolation, encapsulated in its memorable opening line: “One is the loneliest number that you’ll ever do.” Nilsson reportedly composed the song after experiencing the monotony of a busy signal during a phone call, which inspired the repetitive “beep, beep, beep” motif that opens the track. ​

In 1969, the American rock band Three Dog Night released their rendition of “One” as part of their self-titled debut album. Featuring Chuck Negron on lead vocals, their version transformed Nilsson’s subdued composition into a more dynamic and commercially appealing track. This adaptation resonated with a wide audience, propelling the song to number five on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 and number four on Canada’s RPM Top Singles chart.

One

Chart Success: Three Dog Night’s “One” marked their first major hit, laying the foundation for a series of successful releases throughout the late 1960s and 1970s. ​

Cultural Impact: The song’s emotive lyrics and memorable melody have led to its inclusion in various films and television shows, underscoring its enduring relevance in popular culture.​

Cover Versions: Beyond Three Dog Night, “One” has been covered by numerous artists, including Johnny Farnham, whose 1969 version reached number four on Australia’s Go-Set National Top 40 Chart.

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