Mercy, Mercy (Don Covay song)

"Mercy, Mercy" (sometimes referred to as "Have Mercy") is a rhythm and blues song first recorded by American R&B singer/songwriter Don Covay in 1964. It has been identified as a song that "not only established a new guitar dominated soul sound, but also proved a formative influence on white r&bers [sic] Mick Jagger and Peter Wolf". The songwriting is usually credited to Covay and Ron Alonzo Miller, although other co-writers' names have also appeared on various releases.

In late 1964, the song became a hit, reaching number one on the Cash Box R&B chart and number 35 on the Billboard Hot 100. Several artists have recorded "Mercy, Mercy", including a well-known version by the Rolling Stones in 1965. More recently, Covay's original version has received attention as one of Jimi Hendrix's first recordings as a sideman.

Recording and composition

In 1964, after years of writing and recording songs for several record labels, Don Covay was again hoping to land a record deal. A recording session was arranged for May 13, 1964 at the A1 Recording Studio in New York City, operated by Atlantic Records co-founder Herb Abramson. New York radio station WWRL disc jockey Nathaniel "Magnificent" Montague provided financing for the session. Covay has given differing accounts regarding the recording. In one, "Mercy, Mercy" was recorded the day following a well-received performance by Covay and his band the Goodtimers the previous night. For the session, various members of the Goodtimers have been mentioned, including guitarist Ronald Alonzo Miller (also suggested as the bassist), backup singer George "King" Clemons, bassist Horace "Ace" Hall, drummer Bernard Purdie, guitarist Bob Bushnell, guitarist Jimmy Johnson, and a young Jimi Hendrix.

Mercy, Mercy

Mercy, Mercy is a 1968 live album by Buddy Rich and his big band, recorded at Caesars Palace.

Track listing

LP side A

LP side B

Bonus tracks added to 1997 Blue Note CD reissue

Personnel