“You Are Not Alone” is a ballad by Michael Jackson, released in August 1995 as the second single from his album HIStory: Past, Present and Future, Book I. Written and produced by R. Kelly, the song is notable for its emotional lyrics, heartfelt delivery, and lush orchestration.
You Are Not Alone is a song about loss, loneliness, and longing for a loved one who is no longer present. The lyrics express deep sorrow and the hope of spiritual connection, with Jackson singing lines like “You are not alone, I am here with you”, reassuring that love transcends physical distance.
The song features a soft, soulful melody, with gentle instrumentation, layered harmonies, and a gospel-inspired arrangement. Michael Jackson’s tender vocal performance adds to the song’s emotional depth, making it one of his most personal and touching recordings.
The song made history by becoming the first single ever to debut at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. It was also a global success, topping charts in multiple countries,including the UK, and earning a Grammy and American Music Award nominations nominations, both for for “Best Pop Vocal Performance”.
Over the years, You Are Not Alone has remained a fan favorite, often regarded as one of Michael Jackson’s most poignant ballads. However, controversy later surrounded the song when R. Kelly faced legal issues, and a Belgian court ruled that parts of the melody were plagiarized. Despite this, the song continues to be a powerful and beloved entry in Jackson’s discography, recognized for its universal message of love and comfort.