Funk Brothers with Bob Babbitt: “Mercy Mercy Me”, Live 2004

Today we’re remembering the legendary bassist Bob Babbitt, who passed away on this day in 2012. After playing on over 200 Billboard Hot 100 Top 40 hits, it’s safe to say that he will never be forgotten.

Here’s a video of Babbitt performing “Mercy Mercy Me” at the 2004 Montreal Jazz Festival with the Funk Brothers. Babbitt played on the original 1971 track by Marvin Gaye. The performance proves that even 33 years after the original, he still had the groove.

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Share your thoughts

  1. Louis

    Tremendous, thanks for posting!

  2. Keith Dobson

    The late great Bob Babbitt to good to be forgotten,genius!!

  3. Beautifully played Mr. Babbitt : ) You are missed….

  4. Dave

    Love Bob Babbitt, he’s a bass hero. This performance… not so much. Tempo is too low and Bob’s timing is not what it used to be. Having said that, please post more of his old stuff.

  5. Kari (Gold) Barron

    Man I miss Babb! Friend, co-writer, and blessed to have recorded songs with him. He played the most awesome bass on everything!! Looking forward to seeing him in Heaven!

  6. Al Gates

    So glad we had a chance to meet him @ the premier of SITSOM in Philadelphia. A great man. Talked to him about his life & music. Rest on Bob…