Introduction
“Mercury Blues,” a foot-tappin’ country tune recorded by Alan Jackson, might make you crave a road trip with the windows down. But the song’s origins lie not with Nashville songwriters, but deep in the heart of the rural blues scene.
Originally titled “Mercury Boogie,” the song was penned by K.C. Douglas and Robert Geddins in 1948. While not much is known about the original creators, the song itself is a clear homage to the iconic American car brand, Mercury. The lyrics thrum with a love for these powerful vehicles, referencing specific models and the freedom of the open road.
Decades later, the song crossed paths with Alan Jackson, a rising country star known for his traditional sound and relatable lyrics. Jackson released his version of “Mercury Blues” in 1992 on his album “A Lot About Livin’ (And a Little ‘Bout Love).” His rendition retained the essence of the original, capturing the infectious energy of cruising in a classic car. The song became a hit, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and solidifying its place in country music history.
So, the next time you hear “Mercury Blues,” take a moment to appreciate its journey. It’s a song that started as a tribute to a car and transformed into a celebration of freedom, wanderlust, and the simple joy of a road trip – all themes that resonate deeply in both blues and country music.