"Need a Favor" is a song by American musician Jelly Roll, released on December 9, 2022, as the lead single from his ninth studio album Whitsitt Chapel (2023). Jelly Roll co-wrote the song with Rob Ragosta, Joe Ragosta and Austin Nivarel, the latter of whom produced it. The song was sent to country radio on February 13, 2023.[1]
Composition and lyrics
"Need a Favor" is a country rock song[2] which centers on a man being on the verge of losing himself and praying for God to do him a favor, but also admitting he does not deserve it and hoping to repent for his past actions.[3][4]
Jelly Roll sings in the chorus, "I only talk to God when I need a favor / And I only pray when I ain't got a prayer / So, who the hell am I, who the hell am I / To expect a Savior o-o-oh / If I only talk to God when I need a favor / But God I need a favor / Amen... Amen".[3]
Critical reception
Lesley Janes of The Nash News wrote, "The combination of rock and country is easy to find on this song. He speaks with raw authenticity that it's impossible not to believe every word he sings. Everyone needs a helping hand at times, and Jelly Roll is able to capture that perfectly on this track. The line, "Who the Hell am I to expect a savior," brings true humility to the forefront."[2] Jess of Taste of Country wrote, "Both sonically and lyrically, the song feels like a prime track for the soundtrack of an upcoming Yellowstone episode."[3]
