The Cate Brothers: Mr. Union Man

In the 1950s, twin brothers Ernie and Earl Cate become associated with Ronnie Hawkins and the Hawks in their hometown of Fayetteville, Arkansas. Levon Helm, The Hawks’ (and later The Band’s) drummer rekindled his relationship with the Cates in the 1970s and was instrumental in getting the brothers a recording contract with Asylum Records.

Their self-titled debut album featured their only Top 40 hit single, “Mr. Union Man.” The song peaked at 24 in 1976 on the Hot 100 chart; however, it also made it to #8 on the disco chart and #14 on the Dance Club charts. I wasn’t a fan of disco, but I love this record.

I forgot that I even owned this album until I rekindled my interest in this mid-seventies band. The album features a cast of some of best known session players of the time and was produced by Steve Cropper from Booker T and the MGs. Enjoy “Mr. Union Man” our One Hit Wonder for this Wednesday.

Lyrics

Well, it's six a.m.
I'm out on the job
Working like a fool
For my pay

A big man walks by
With a smile
Says you got to go
On strike today

Hey, hey, Mr. Union Man
How am I gonna pay my dues
Or the landlord or the doctor
How am I getting new shoes

Well, I know I need
To help to get that raise
There's one thing I don't like

Tell me how can I
Feed my hungry family
I you say I'm going on strike

Hey, hey, Mr. Union Man
How am I gonna pay my dues
Owe more money than I can pay
Looks like I'm bound to lose

Well, I don't see how
I'm going to get ahead
Seem like there ain't no way

Well, said don't worry
Cause I understand
Won't you try to
See things my way

Hey, hey, Mr. Union Man
Thank you for the helping hand
Hey, hey, Mr. Union Man
So glad you understand

Hey, hey, Mr. Union Man
So glad that you understand

Hey, hey, Mr. Union Man
Thank you for the helping hand
Hey, hey, Mr. Union Man
So glad that you understand