The Honky-Tonk Soul

Verse 1

I pulled in here at closing time, same stool I always claim

The bartender knows my poison, he don’t even ask my name

She left me in a cloud of dust and taillight red regret

So pour me something strong enough to make this jukebox forget

Chorus

Neon mercy, shine down on a fool tonight

Let that red glow hide the tears I’m too proud to cry

Play me Jones and Haggard till the hurting feels right

Neon mercy, be kind to a man who lost his fight

Verse 2

There’s a blonde in the corner booth, laughing like she’s free

She don’t know I’m counting cracks in this broken heart of me

I tipped my hat and turned away, some lessons cut too deep

Some women you just dance with, some you love till you can’t sleep

Chorus

Neon mercy, shine down on a fool tonight

Let that Bud sign buzz like church bells in a sinner’s mind

Spin me one more slow one till I’m steady on my feet

Neon mercy, Lord knows this cowboy’s down on his knees

Bridge

Tomorrow I’ll ride out at dawn, chase the pain down Highway 9

But tonight I’m just another ghost in this barroom light

(Last Chorus – half-step up, full band kicks)

Neon mercy, one last round before I go

If she ever drives by, tell her I still love her so

Till then keep the jukebox crying and the beer ice-cold

Neon mercy… save what’s left of this honky-tonk soul

Outro – steel guitar cries it out

Yeah, neon mercy…

Turn it up, son… let it burn.