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Rolling Stones’ Mick Jagger and Keith Richards: Iconic Rockers Reflect on Songs They Dislike
Since their fortuitous meeting in the 1960s, Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, the core of The Rolling Stones, have epitomized rock and roll rebellion, sustaining a career that has surpassed many of their contemporaries. Embracing a somewhat rebellious and iconic rock persona, associated with themes of freedom and indulgence, The Rolling Stones have amassed numerous hits, yet some of their songs have become less favored by the songwriters themselves.
“Street Fighting Man”: A Song Lost in Time for Jagger
One track that Jagger feels has diminished in relevance is “Street Fighting Man.” Speaking with Rolling Stone, Jagger admitted, “I’m not sure if it has any resonance for the present day. I don’t really like it that much. I thought it was a very good thing at the time.”
This perspective is understandable, considering the song’s context within the youth revolution of the late 1960s. While “Street Fighting Man” once powerfully connected with audiences, capturing the spirit of youthful discontent, Jagger now questions its enduring impact. However, his talent for crafting authentic and resonant lyrics has consistently been a hallmark of his songwriting.
Keith Richards’ Initial Disdain for “Satisfaction”
Looking back on their extensive catalog, both Jagger and Richards have recalled the latter’s initial aversion to one of their biggest hits, “Satisfaction.”
In the BBC documentary, “My Life as a Rolling Stone,” Jagger recounted the moment: “I remember sitting with Keith and writing the song Satisfaction. Our manager Andrew Oldham said, ‘This is like a number one single, this is great!’ Keith was like, ‘I don’t really like it. It can’t come out as a single.’ And it went to number one instantly.”
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Despite Richards‘ initial sentiments, “Satisfaction” achieved massive global success. It provided fans with a raw and edgy sound, differentiating The Rolling Stones from contemporaries like The Beatles and cementing their distinct musical identity.
“Their Satanic Majesties Request”: A Psychedelic Phase in Question
Revisiting their albums, Jagger and Richards have also expressed reservations about “Their Satanic Majesties Request.” During this period, the band experimented with psychedelic drugs, purportedly for creative exploration. However, Jagger recalls the experience as being detrimental to their studio work, confessing, “Well, it’s not very good. It had interesting things on it, but I don’t think any of the songs are very good.”
Jagger’s Assessment:
- He considers it more of a “sound experience” than a collection of strong songs.
- He identifies “She’s a Rainbow” and “2000 Light Years From Home” as the only commendable tracks.
- He dismisses the remaining songs as “nonsense.”
Regardless of these critical self-assessments from Jagger and Richards, The Rolling Stones‘ discography has undeniably enriched the landscape of rock music. Even if “Satisfaction” did not initially resonate with Richards and Jagger harbors reservations about “Their Satanic Majesties Request,” the music’s impact on fans and the broader music world remains undeniable and significant.