Johnny Rodriguez – Alibis captures the exhaustion of loving someone whose excuses no longer ring true. Released by Mercury in 1978, the song reached No. 16 on Billboard’s country chart in 1979. Its polished arrangement gives Rodriguez room to tell a quiet, painful story about trust wearing away.
Johnny Rodriguez – Alibis: Writers and Recording
Rock Killough and Pat Killough wrote “Alibis,” and Jerry Kennedy produced Rodriguez’s recording. The December 2, 1978 issue of Billboard lists those credits in its contemporary singles review. It also identifies the record as Mercury 55050, with a running time of 3:15.
That review highlights the piano and strings, along with background voices in the chorus. Together, these elements give the recording a smooth, carefully arranged setting. However, the emotional focus remains on Rodriguez’s voice and the narrator’s growing disappointment.
A Story of Excuses and Broken Trust
In “Alibis,” the narrator spends another lonely evening waiting for a partner to come home. Familiar explanations have become part of a painful routine. Instead of finding comfort in them, he hears another reason to doubt the relationship.
As the story unfolds, loneliness gives way to resignation. The central feeling is not simply jealousy; it is the weariness of hearing promises that no longer offer reassurance. Rodriguez’s restrained delivery suits that mood. Rather than turning the song into an angry confrontation, he lets the hurt emerge through the story.
“Alibis” on Rodriguez Was Here
The song also appears on Rodriguez Was Here, the Mercury LP reviewed in the March 10, 1979 issue of Cash Box. The original album carries catalog number SRM-1-5015. Its cover even names “Alibis” among the featured selections.
Chart Position and More Johnny Rodriguez
“Alibis” reached No. 16 on the U.S. country chart. The chart listing places it in 1979, while the contemporary Billboard review establishes that the single was already available in 1978. Therefore, its release year and chart year should be distinguished.
For more of his music, revisit “You Always Come Back (To Hurting Me)” and “That’s the Way Love Goes.” You can also explore “Just Get Up and Close the Door.” Finally, listen to “Alibis” below and hear how Rodriguez brings its broken trust to life.