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Somebody Have Mercy
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Wikipedia article
"'Somebody Have Mercy'" is a song by American singer-songwriter Sam Cooke, originally released in April 1962 on the album 'Twistin' the Night Away'.
Background
One line in the song ("Tell me what is wrong with me") created speculation and rampant rumors that Cooke was suffering from leukemia, which was false.Guralnick, Peter (2005). 'Dream Boogie: The Triumph of Sam Cooke'. New York: Back Bay Books, p. 419. First edition, 2005.
Personnel
"Somebody Have Mercy" was recorded on February 15, 1962 at RCA Studio 1 in Hollywood, California. The musicians also recorded much of the 'Twistin' the Night Away' album the same day. The session was conducted and arranged by Ren Hall, producers were Hugo & Luigi. Credits adapted from the liner notes to the 2003 compilation 'Portrait of a Legend: 19511964'.
*Sam Cooke vocals
*Edward Beal piano
Charts and certifications
Weekly charts
"Somebody Have Mercy" was later was selected for the B-side of the single "Nothing Can Change This Love", which was released on September 11, 1962. It received enough airplay to make the 'Billboard' charts on its own, peaking at No. 3 R&B and No. 70 Pop.References
Category:1962 singles
Category:Sam Cooke songs
Category:Songs written by Sam Cooke
Category:1962 songs
Category:Song recordings produced by Hugo & Luigi
Category:Soul ballads
Category:RCA Victor singles
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