The Judds Have Mercy song was released in 1985 and the song reached #1 on the Country Music charts starting December 28, 1985. In the realm of country music, The Judds stand as one of the genre’s iconic duos, leaving an indelible mark with their harmonies and heartfelt lyrics. Among their many hits, “Have Mercy” emerges as a standout track that weaves a timeless tale of heartache, resilience, and the power of mercy. Released in 1985 as part of their album “Rockin’ with the Rhythm,” the song showcases the mother-daughter duo’s ability to connect with listeners on a deeply emotional level. It was The Judds’ fourth consecutive No. 1 hit, solidifying their status as one of the biggest acts in country music at the time.
Watch the Judds perform “Have Mercy” and check out the lyrics to this Country classic.
The Judds Have Mercy Live Performance
The song tells the story of a woman who is emotionally worn down by a charming but unfaithful lover. With lyrics full of frustration and heartache, the protagonist pleads for mercy from a man who continuously breaks her heart. The lyrics to “Have Mercy” were written by Paul Kennerley.
The Judds Have Mercy Lyrics
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 the game away
It’s strawberry red and mine’s pink rose
[Chorus]
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
[Repeat Chorus]
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
[Repeat Chorus]
“Have Mercy” was the first single from the album Rockin’ with the Rhythm and became the Judds’ fifth number one on the country chart. At its core, “Have Mercy” is a song about heartache and the aftermath of a failed relationship. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a love gone awry, with Wynonna’s powerful voice conveying the pain and disappointment of a shattered romance. The words resonate with anyone who has experienced the bitter sting of a breakup, as the singer pleads for mercy in the face of overwhelming emotional turmoil.
With a career that spanned over three decades, The Judds remain one of country music’s most celebrated duos. Their influence can be seen in the work of many contemporary female artists, from Miranda Lambert to Carly Pearce. Songs like “Have Mercy” helped pave the way for a new generation of country music storytellers.
Despite Naomi Judd’s passing in 2022, the music she and Wynonna created continues to live on. Their songs remain timeless, and their impact on the genre is undeniable.
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