Anthony Hamilton, Mercy | Track Review

Anthony Hamilton shines on his incredibly woke, socially conscious single, “Mercy” featuring social justice leader Tamika Mallory. 

Undoubtedly, Anthony Hamilton ranks among the best and most soulful contemporary R&B artists in the game.  His career hasn’t been an easy one but he’d finally breakthrough in 2003 with his platinum-certified album Comin’ From Where I’m From, thanks primarily to his biggest, most beloved hit, “Charlene”. He’s been unable to replicate such success again, but the Grammy-winner has been consistent from the jump.  At the end of 2020, assisted by Tamika D. Mallory, he drops another soulful R&B gem via the socially conscious “Mercy.”

Tamika D. Mallory, of course, is a social justice leader, who sets the tone on “Mercy.”  Essentially, she highlights the value of black men, as well as the struggles they face.  She stirs up the audience with her empowering, uplifting message, which is chocked full of resolve. From there, Anthony Hamilton gets to work, blessing us with a mix of buttery smooth and gospel-infused pipes.  Throughout the course of this ‘woke’ joint, he petitions for mercy given such struggles experienced by his community.  Further strengthening the messaging, the awesome songwriting is supported by a marvelous backdrop produced by Bink!, Brody Brown, Charles Hamilton, and Larrance Dopson.

Final Thoughts

I suspect many folks missed the fact that Anthony Hamilton released “Mercy,” his utterly sublime second single of 2020 in December.  Probably many people missed the fact he released any new singles in 2020 – the plight of the underrated! Regardless, “Mercy” ends up being a powerful record with a statement perfectly attuned for turbulent times – Black Lives definitely Matter!  Mr. Hamilton checks off every box, making us yearn even more for his brand-new album to arrive.  

Anthony Hamilton • “Mercy” (Ft. Tamika Mallory) • My Music Box / BMG Rights Management • 12.11.20

[: My Music Box / BMG Rights Management]