Unveiling the Tale Behind “Have Mercy” by The Judds
Crafted by the creative hands of former British advertising executive Paul Kennerley, “Have Mercy” stands as The Judds’ triumphant fifth number-one single in 1985. Kennerley’s journey into the world of country music took an unexpected turn during the punk rock explosion in England in 1976. While captivated by bands like the Stranglers and the Sex Pistols, Kennerley found himself drawn to the twang of country melodies through a Waylon Jennings record, where “Country meets the Rolling Stones” left an indelible mark.
Immersing himself in the roots of the country music genre, Kennerley sought to contribute his own compositions. Despite lacking a background that provided the necessary lyrical experience, he delved into American history for inspiration, resulting in two concept albums: “White Mansions” and “The Legend of Jesse James.” Although commercially modest, these albums connected him with luminaries like Jennings and Emmylou Harris.
Emmylou Harris, in 1981, catapulted Kennerley into the limelight by recording his song “Born To Run,” which soared to #3 on the Billboard charts. This success prompted Kennerley to make frequent visits to Nashville, culminating in his permanent move in ’83. His prolific songwriting talent flourished, yielding Top Ten hits for artists like Patty Loveless, Marty Stuart, Tanya Tucker, Sweethearts of the Rodeo, Juice Newton, and his wife, Emmylou Harris.
However, it was with The Judds that Kennerley achieved his greatest success. Penning seven of their singles, four of which reached number one, Kennerley left an indelible mark on the duo’s discography. “Have Mercy” claimed the top spot, although Kennerley had initially presented them with “Cry Myself To Sleep.”
After recording “Cry Myself To Sleep,” Kennerley set out to intentionally craft a song tailored for The Judds, marking a first in his career. Sensing the duo’s distinctive style, he aimed for a rhythm and blues-infused creation. The duo’s producer, Brent Maher, was so impressed with “Have Mercy” that he rushed to play it for The Judds in Jackson, Mississippi, where they were performing. The electrifying moment when Wynonna and Naomi first heard the song was met with exuberant jumping.
On December 28, 1985, “Have Mercy” secured its place as the fifth of The Judds’ fourteen Billboard number-one hits, etching Paul Kennerley’s name into the annals of country music history.
- Released: 1985
- Artist: The Judds
- Album: Hampton Virginia 1985 (live)
Lyrics
Well, I was standing in line at the city bus stop
Soaked to the skin from ev’ry rain drop
I see you driving by just like a phantom jet
With your arm around some little brunette
You say you won’t be home because you’re working late
Honey, I’m no fool, you’ve been out on a date
The lipstick on your collar gives your game away
It’s strawberry red and mine’s pink rose
Have mercy on me
You treat me so bad I’m in misery
It’s breaking my heart, can’t you see
Baby, baby have mercy on me
Well, I called you up on the telephone
I could hear you was playin’ Haggard and Jones
I knew right then that there was something wrong
There’s only one reason you play cheatin’ songs
Have mercy on me
You treat me so bad I’m in misery
It’s breaking my heart, can’t you see
Baby, baby have mercy on me
Well, I called you up on the telephone
Well, I went to the bank with my little check book
The cashier, he gave me the strangest look
He said, You ain’t got no money ’cause you’re over drawn
Your man took it all and he’s done gone!
Have mercy on me
You treat me so bad I’m in misery
It’s breaking my heart, can’t you see
Baby, baby have mercy on me
Well, I called you up on the telephone
