OLDIES SUNDAY: Merciless – Mavis (1995)

On July 19, Dancehall lost a lyrical legend who went by the name, “Merciless“. Born Leonard Bartley, Merciless was known to take over the scene with a barrage a lyrics that will thrill the listener, and let other Artists know that he’s ready for anything. Nicknamed “Warhead” and calls himself the “Warring don from Clarendon“, Merciless had a few hits over the years in addition to his wins as a lyrical contender. For today’s Oldies Sunday selection, we highlight one his hits, “Mavis“.

Produced by Robert Livingston and Shaun ‘Sting International’ Pizzonia, “Mavis” was released through Big Yard Production in 1995. On the track, Merciless is all about the ladies here as he shares that he has what it takes to make them come back for more. He spoke about the various ladies who come his way, and warns that if the Man cannot fulfill a Woman’s request of satisfaction, she will go elsewhere. “Mavis” was featured on the “Boombastic Riddim“, and Merciless name dropped Sylvester Stallone, Wesley Snipes, and Chuck Norris, sharing that the ladies don’t need the “tough guy“, but rather a Man who can “Wuk har good“.

“Mavis” became a hit for Merciless, and opened the door for a career that found him scoring a few more, and providing him a lane that made him a formidable opponent in Dancehall clashes. The one night Dancehall event Sting would find Merciless in attendance yearly to add notches to his belt. His most famous Sting was in 2000 when he went up against Bounty Killa, Beenie Man, and Ninja Man, becoming the victor in the end. Merciless solidified his space in Dancehall, and he will be missed by fans, family, and members of the music fraternity.