About the song
Three Dog Night’s rendition of “One” is a quintessential piece of late 1960s pop-rock that continues to resonate with listeners decades later. The song, originally penned by the enigmatic Harry Nilsson, found its ultimate apotheosis in the hands of this American rock band.
Three Dog Night, renowned for their impeccable harmonies and ability to bridge the gap between rock and pop, transformed “One” into a soulful and introspective ballad. Released in 1968 as part of their self-titled debut album, the track quickly ascended the charts, becoming a signature song for the group.
What distinguishes Three Dog Night’s interpretation is their capacity to imbue the song with an emotional depth that transcends the original composition. The band’s vocal blend, characterized by the rich baritone of Chuck Negron, the soulful tenor of Cory Wells, and the dynamic range of Danny Hutton, creates a sonic tapestry that is both powerful and intimate.
The lyrics of “One” explore the profound isolation and loneliness often experienced by individuals amidst a crowded world. Nilsson’s poignant words, brought to life through Three Dog Night’s interpretation, resonate with a universal truth. The song’s melancholic undertones are counterbalanced by a sense of hope and resilience, making it a complex and emotionally rich listening experience.
Musically, “One” is a masterclass in restraint. The arrangement is simple yet effective, allowing the vocals and lyrics to take center stage. The gentle acoustic guitar accompaniment provides a warm and inviting backdrop, while the subtle instrumentation builds to a crescendo during the song’s bridge, underscoring the emotional intensity of the lyrics.
“One” by Three Dog Night is more than just a song; it is a timeless piece of music that continues to touch the hearts of listeners across generations. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the song’s universal themes and the band’s exceptional ability to connect with audiences on a deep emotional level.
Video
Lyrics
“One”
Two can be as bad as one
It’s the loneliest number since the number one
No is the saddest experience you’ll ever know
Yes, it’s the saddest experience you’ll ever know
‘Cause one is the loneliest number that you’ll ever do
One is the loneliest number, whoa-oh, worse than two
It’s just no good anymore since you went away
Now I spend my time just making rhymes of yesterday
One is the loneliest number
One is the loneliest number
One is the loneliest number that you’ll ever do
One is the loneliest
One is the loneliest
One is the loneliest number that you’ll ever do
It’s just no good anymore since you went away (number)
One is the loneliest (number)
One is the loneliest (number)
One is the loneliest number that you’ll ever do (number)
One is the loneliest (number)
One is the loneliest (number)
One is the loneliest number that you’ll ever do (number)
One (one is the loneliest number that you’ll ever do)(number)
One is the loneliest number that you’ll ever do (number)
One is the loneliest number that you’ll ever do