Shannon – Henry Gross

Released in 1976, “Shannon” became the defining hit of Henry Gross’s solo career. The song appeared on his third studio album, Release, and quickly captured listeners with its gentle melody and heartfelt storytelling.

Inspired by the passing of a beloved pet dog owned by Carl Wilson of The Beach Boys, “Shannon” carries a tender emotional weight. Many listeners initially assumed it was about a person, only later discovering the touching backstory — a realization that makes the lyrics even more poignant.

“Shannon” climbed to No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States and reached No. 5 in Canada. It also performed well internationally, solidifying Gross’s place in 1970s soft rock history. The song’s lush production and sincere vocal delivery helped it stand out during an era filled with singer-songwriter classics.

Nearly five decades later, “Shannon” remains a moving tribute to love and loss, proving that sometimes the simplest stories leave the deepest impact.