“Mercy Mercy” is a song by The Rolling Stones, originally included on their album “Out of Our Heads” released in 1965. The version remastered in 2002 features improved sound quality and has been included in various re-releases and compilations.

“Mercy Mercy” by The Rolling Stones (Remastered 2002)

• Artist: The Rolling Stones
• Album: Out of Our Heads
• Release Date: Originally 1965, remastered version 2002
• Genre: Rock
• Writers: Don Covay, Ronald Dean Miller

Song Details

• Background: “Mercy Mercy” is a cover of a song originally recorded by Don Covay in 1964. The Rolling Stones’ version maintains the soulful and bluesy feel of the original while infusing it with their distinctive rock edge.
• Musical Style: The song features prominent guitar riffs, a strong rhythm section, and soulful vocals, characteristic of The Rolling Stones’ early sound. The remastered version offers clearer audio, bringing out the nuances of the instrumentation and vocals.

Lyrics Excerpt

Have mercy, have mercy, baby Have mercy, have mercy on me Well, I went to see a gypsy And had my fortune read She said, “Man, your baby’s gonna leave you Her bags are packed up under the bed” That’s right

Notable Features

• Guitar Work: The song includes notable guitar work from Keith Richards and Brian Jones, showcasing the early interplay between the two guitarists.
• Vocal Performance: Mick Jagger delivers a passionate vocal performance, capturing the emotional plea of the song’s lyrics.
• Blues Influence: “Mercy Mercy” exemplifies the blues influence on The Rolling Stones’ early music, blending rock and blues seamlessly.

Legacy

• Cover: The Rolling Stones’ version of “Mercy Mercy” helped introduce the song to a wider audience and remains a memorable part of their early discography.
• Live Performances: While not a regular feature in their live sets, “Mercy Mercy” has been performed by the band in various concerts, appreciated by fans for its classic rock and blues vibe.

The remastered version of “Mercy Mercy” from 2002 offers an enhanced listening experience, preserving the energy and emotion of The Rolling Stones’ original recording while benefiting from modern audio technology.