Introduction
A Plea for Love and Acceptance: The Enduring Charm of “Let Me In”
“Let Me In” is a heartfelt ballad written by Alan, Merrill, and Wayne Osmond, recorded on March 7, 1973, and released as a single on September 1, 1973, via MGM Records . Featured on their concept album The Plan, the song marks a pivot for the group—a departure from the harder-edged rock of Crazy Horses (1972), toward a reflective, soul-tinged pop sound.
The Plan, released June 30, 1973, is a deeply thematic album rooted in Mormon faith, exploring principles like redemption and spiritual return . As with many tracks on the record, “Let Me In” contains dual layers—on the surface it’s a tender love plea, but it also doubles as a supplication to God, echoing the parable of the prodigal son .
Vocally, the song revives the band’s classic structure: Merrill Osmond leads the verses with his rich tenor, while Donny Osmond, now matured into a baritone/tenor, carries the chorus in unison with Alan and Wayne . This dynamic recalls earlier hits like “One Bad Apple,” yet carries more emotional weight, fitting the album’s spiritual tone.
Commercially, “Let Me In” earned moderate success in the United States—peaking at #36 on the Billboard Hot 100 and reaching #4 on the U.S. easy listening chart. Internationally, the song resonated more strongly, securing #2 on the UK Singles Chart, #15 on the Canadian pop chart, and #5 on Canadian adult contemporary. This success helped The Plan itself chart respectably, reaching #58 on the Billboard 200 .
“Let Me In” holds enduring significance within The Osmonds’ catalogue. It represents not only a stylistic evolution—from rock into soulful introspection—but also a reaffirmation of the band’s lyrical ambition and spiritual sincerity. Its legacy is further underscored by subsequent covers, such as Irish boy band OTT’s version in the 1990s, testimony to its lasting melodic appeal .