About the song
“Brotherly Love” is a heartfelt song crafted by Jimmy Alan Stewart and Tim Nichols, which has resonated deeply with country music fans through its various renditions. The song first gained attention when Moe Bandy recorded it for his 1989 studio album, *Many Mansions*. This version, released as the album’s second single, achieved a respectable position on the country charts, peaking at number 53.
However, the most celebrated version of “Brotherly Love” is the duet performed by Keith Whitley and Earl Thomas Conley. Though the recording was made in 1987, it was not released until 1991. It appeared on Whitley’s posthumous album, *Kentucky Bluebird*, and Conley’s album, *Yours Truly*. This duet version made a significant impact, reaching number 2 on the US Hot Country Songs chart and remaining on the charts for twenty weeks.
The duet was not only a commercial success but also received critical acclaim. It earned a nomination for the Country Music Association’s Vocal Event of the Year in 1992 and was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Country Collaboration with Vocals. The exceptional performance was supported by a talented group of musicians, including Eddie Bayers on drums, Sam Bush on mandolin, and Paul Franklin on steel guitar, among others.
In addition to its success on the charts, the song’s enduring popularity is highlighted by its appearance on year-end charts and its continuing influence in the country music genre. “Brotherly Love” stands out as a testament to the emotional depth and collaborative spirit of country music, capturing the essence of brotherhood and camaraderie through its touching lyrics and memorable performances.
Video
Lyrics
We shared the same last name and the same color eyes
But we fought like tigers over that old red bike
“I’m battin’ first and you can’t use my glove”
It wouldn’t take long until push came to shove
But we looked out for each other
With brotherly love
You hated girls ’til I had my first date
I brought her home from the movies, you stayed up late
Three on the couch watchin’ TV
I was smilin’ at her while you were laughin’ at me
But, I wouldn’t trade it for nothin’
Brotherly love
There’s a bond that brothers know
And it gets stronger as they grow
A love that time and miles can’t come between
We disagree but in the end
There will never be two closer friends
And brotherly love is something we all need
They share the same last name and the same color eyes
But they fight like tigers over one old red bike
And lookin’ at them reminds me of us
They’re gonna fight and they’re gonna fuss
But, they’ve got something special
It’s brotherly love
Yeah, they’ve got something special
It’s brotherly love