Percy Mayfield was one of the premier composers of blues songs, but his most enduring hit, ‘Please Send Me Someone to Love,’ was actually a prayer in ballad form. Inspirational messages were at the core of many Mayfield numbers, and here he gently prayed not just for love but for the whole world: ‘Heaven please send to all mankind understanding and peace of mind. But if it’s not asking too much, please send me someone to love.’ The sentiment hit home with listeners who had just lived through a world war only to see U.S. troops begin fighting in Korea just weeks before Mayfield recorded his plea for peace on Aug. 16, 1950. The record remained on Billboard‘s rhythm & blues charts for 27 weeks and attained the No. 1 spot both in sales and jukebox play.
PERCY MAYFIELD
Vocal with Maxwell Davis, Richard Wells, tenor saxes; Charles Waller, baritone sax; Eddie Beal, piano; Gene Phillips, guitar; Red Callender, bass; Lee Young, drums. Recorded Aug. 16, 1950, Los Angeles. Released as Specialty 375 (78 and 45 rpm single) in September 1950.
Discographical details from The Blues Discography 1943-1970.