"Three Dog Night" is the self-titled debut studio album by American rock band Three Dog Night. Released in 1968 under the Dunhill Records label, it ranks among the most distinct and memorable creations of the band. The album's lead single is "Nobody," which helped make the band known internationally.
Three Dog Night, the band, was formed in 1967 by vocalists Danny Hutton, Cory Wells, and Chuck Negron. This trio was the heart and soul of the band. The name, Three Dog Night, is interestingly inspired by an Australian Aboriginal practice; on colder nights, they would sleep in a hole in the ground whilst embracing a dingo, a native species of wild dog. On colder nights, they would sleep with two dogs and if the night was freezing, it was a "three dog night."
Their debut album is valued for its vivid fusion of rock, pop, and folk elements. Three Dog Night's interpretations of contemporary hits and their original tracks resulted in a sound that stood out in the music scene of the late 1960s. Their harmonized vocal style became a standard for the band, contributing to their wide-ranging success. It's important to note that the album was quite a success both commercially and critically. It helped the band to become widely popular internationally and also scored high positions in various music charts.
From the gritty, bluesy "Nobody" to the soothing "It's For You," Three Dog Night's debut offering is characterized by the band's dynamic vocal harmonies and an unmistakable chemistry. Despite a mostly favorable reception, some critics have pointed out the band's lack of original songs as a drawback.
Regardless, "Three Dog Night" became a strong foundation for the group's successful career in the rock music industry. The band continued to record and perform for several years, building on the acclaim and success they'd earned with their debut album.
