Harry Nilsson was an American singer-songwriter who rose to fame in the 1960s and 70s. Known for his powerful vocals and creative songwriting, Nilsson was a versatile artist who experimented with various musical genres, from rock and pop to folk and jazz. Despite his untimely death in 1994, his music has continued to captivate listeners and influence generations of musicians. In this article, we will take a look at the top 10 best Harry Nilsson songs of all time.
The selection of these ten songs is based on their commercial success, critical acclaim, and overall popularity among fans. Each of these songs highlights Nilsson’s ability to craft beautiful melodies and poignant lyrics that touch the hearts of his listeners. From his iconic hits like “Without You” and “Everybody’s Talkin'” to his lesser-known gems like “Coconut” and “The Puppy Song,” this list offers a diverse range of Nilsson’s work. Whether you are a die-hard fan or a newcomer to Nilsson’s music, these songs are sure to showcase the depth and versatility of his artistry. So sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the top 10 best Harry Nilsson songs of all time.
1. Without You
“Without You” is a powerful ballad that showcases Harry Nilsson’s vocal range and emotional depth. Originally written and recorded by the British rock group Badfinger, Nilsson’s version became a massive hit in the 1970s, earning him critical acclaim and commercial success. The song’s haunting melody and heartbreaking lyrics about lost love have made it a timeless classic, with countless covers and tributes paying homage to its beauty and impact. Nilsson’s rendition features soaring vocals, soaring strings, and a melancholic piano that perfectly complement the song’s mournful tone. “Without You” is a testament to Nilsson’s ability to convey complex emotions through his music, and it remains one of his most iconic and beloved tracks.
2. One
“One” is a poignant and emotional ballad that showcases Harry Nilsson’s exceptional vocal range and dynamic songwriting abilities. The song is a melancholic reflection on the loneliness and isolation that can come with fame and success, with lyrics that convey a sense of longing and vulnerability. The piano-driven melody is both haunting and beautiful, perfectly complementing Nilsson’s soulful vocals. The song builds to a powerful crescendo as Nilsson sings the iconic line “One is the loneliest number that you’ll ever do” repeatedly, driving home the message of the song. “One” has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including Three Dog Night, Aimee Mann, and Filter, among others, and it remains one of Nilsson’s most enduring and beloved compositions.
3. Everybody’s Talking
“Everybody’s Talking” is a hit song written and originally recorded by Fred Neil in 1966, but it is perhaps best known for Harry Nilsson’s cover version released the same year. The song is a breezy and laid-back folk-pop tune that showcases Nilsson’s smooth and versatile vocals, accompanied by acoustic guitar and a simple percussion. The song’s lyrics talk about the freedom of living a nomadic lifestyle and the desire to keep moving forward, even when things get tough. The chorus is catchy and uplifting, with the repetition of the phrase “I’m going where the sun keeps shining through the pouring rain.” Overall, the song’s easy-going melody and positive message have made it a beloved classic, frequently featured in film and television soundtracks.
4. You’re Breakin’ My Heart
“You’re Breakin’ My Heart” is a classic Harry Nilsson song that was released in 1972. The song features Nilsson’s signature lush orchestration and his soaring, emotional vocals. It is a heartbreakingly beautiful ballad about the pain of lost love, with lyrics that express the sorrow and desperation of a man whose heart has been broken. The song is driven by a simple piano melody that gradually builds in intensity as the song progresses, eventually exploding into a powerful crescendo that perfectly captures the emotional turmoil at the heart of the song. Nilsson’s powerful vocals are the centerpiece of the song, conveying the raw emotion and vulnerability of the lyrics with a heart-wrenching sincerity that makes the listener feel every note. “You’re Breakin’ My Heart” is a timeless classic that showcases Nilsson’s incredible talent as a songwriter and performer, and remains one of his most beloved and enduring songs.
5. Something True
“Something True” is a heartfelt ballad by Harry Nilsson that speaks of the search for love and companionship. The song features Nilsson’s signature blend of melancholic lyrics and beautiful melodies. His soulful vocals capture the pain and longing of the song’s protagonist, who seeks a genuine connection with someone who sees beyond the superficial. The gentle guitar strumming and lilting piano accompaniment create a dreamy atmosphere that underscores the wistful nature of the lyrics. The song’s introspective tone and raw emotional appeal make it a standout track in Nilsson’s discography. “Something True” is a testament to Nilsson’s songwriting talent, his ability to express complex emotions with simplicity, and his gift for crafting unforgettable melodies.
6. Old Dirt Road
“Old Dirt Road” is a collaborative song by John Lennon and Harry Nilsson from their album “Pussy Cats.” The song features a laid-back country rock melody with a twangy guitar riff and rich harmonies. It has a nostalgic feel to it and is about looking back on one’s past experiences and the memories that come with it. The lyrics describe a journey down an old dirt road and reminiscing about the moments and emotions that were experienced there. The song showcases both Lennon’s and Nilsson’s vocals with Lennon taking lead on the verses and Nilsson harmonizing on the chorus. The song also features a cameo by Ringo Starr on drums. Overall, “Old Dirt Road” is a heartfelt and introspective song that captures the essence of looking back on one’s past and the emotions that come with it.
7. Coconut
“Coconut” is a fun and catchy song that will get stuck in your head for days. The song starts with a simple melody on the marimba and then transitions into Harry Nilsson’s unique vocals. The lyrics are about a woman who is “put the lime in the coconut and drink it all up.” The song is known for its use of silly background vocals and sound effects, such as a dog barking and a train whistle. The upbeat tempo of the song makes it perfect for dancing and singing along. It’s a song that brings joy and laughter to anyone who listens to it, making it one of Harry Nilsson’s most beloved hits.
8. Spaceman
“Spaceman” is a psychedelic song that showcases Harry Nilsson’s unique vocals and songwriting style. The song is notable for its use of unusual sound effects and instrumentation, including a prominent mellotron and a spaceship sound effect. The lyrics describe a journey through space, with Nilsson singing about encountering different planets and aliens. The chorus features the repeated line “Spaceman, won’t you please take me along for a ride”, which serves as a hook for the song. The song’s dreamy atmosphere and unusual subject matter make it stand out among Nilsson’s other works, and it has become a fan favorite over the years.
9. Mucho Mungo/Mt. Elga
“Mucho Mungo/Mt. Elga” is a track that combines two separate songs that Nilsson recorded, each with its own distinct style. “Mucho Mungo” is a lively, Latin-inspired tune with a catchy melody and upbeat rhythm that features an array of instruments, including horns, guitars, and percussion. Meanwhile, “Mt. Elga” is a more mellow and introspective piece that showcases Nilsson’s soulful vocals and poignant lyrics. The track seamlessly transitions between the two songs, creating a dynamic and memorable listening experience. The lyrics of “Mucho Mungo” are playful and lighthearted, while those of “Mt. Elga” are more contemplative and melancholic, resulting in a compelling contrast that highlights the depth and range of Nilsson’s songwriting ability. Overall, “Mucho Mungo/Mt. Elga” is a unique and creative piece of music that showcases Nilsson’s versatility as an artist.
10. Jump Into The Fire
“Jump Into The Fire” is an energetic and dynamic track that showcases Harry Nilsson’s powerful vocals and knack for crafting catchy melodies. Released in 1971 as a single from his album “Nilsson Schmilsson”, the song features a driving drumbeat, electric guitar riffs, and a catchy chorus that will have listeners singing along. The song builds up in intensity throughout, culminating in a powerful instrumental section that highlights Nilsson’s unique vocal range. The lyrics are cryptic and abstract, with Nilsson seemingly urging the listener to let go of their inhibitions and take a risk. The song has been praised for its raw energy and infectious groove, and it remains one of Nilsson’s most popular and enduring tracks. It has been covered by a number of artists over the years, including LCD Soundsystem, Sharon Van Etten, and Ellie Goulding, and has been featured in films and television shows such as “Goodfellas” and “The Good Doctor”.
Erica Henderson is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
