Harry Nilsson ’s version of stands as one of the most iconic power ballads of the 1970s. Released in October 1971 as a single from his album Nilsson Schmilsson , it became his only number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100, beginning a four-week run at the top on February 19, 1972 . Key Facts and Production
His soaring vocal performance, noted for its incredible range, was famously captured in just one take .
The song was originally written and recorded by Pete Ham and Tom Evans of the band Badfinger for their 1970 album No Dice .
The performance earned Nilsson the Grammy Award for Best Pop Vocal Performance, Male in 1973. Chart Performance (1972)