Mick Jagger, born Michael Philip Jagger on July 26, 1943, is an English singer, songwriter, actor, and producer. He is best known as the lead vocalist and a founding member of the iconic rock band The Rolling Stones.
Jagger’s career with The Rolling Stones spans over six decades, during which the band became one of the most influential and enduring acts in rock music history. With Jagger’s charismatic stage presence, distinctive voice, and energetic performances, The Rolling Stones produced numerous hit songs, including classics like “Satisfaction,” “Paint It Black,” “Sympathy for the Devil,” and “Start Me Up.”
In addition to his work with The Rolling Stones, Jagger has pursued a successful solo career, releasing several albums and singles, including hits like “Just Another Night,” “Don’t Tear Me Up,” and “Sweet Thing.” He has also ventured into acting, appearing in films such as “Performance,” “Ned Kelly,” and “The Man from Elysian Fields.”
Jagger is renowned for his influence on popular culture, both as a musician and as a cultural icon. His dynamic stage presence, flamboyant style, and rebellious attitude have made him one of the most recognizable figures in rock music. He has received numerous awards and accolades throughout his career, including induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of The Rolling Stones.
Beyond his musical and acting endeavors, Jagger is also known for his philanthropy and activism, particularly in the fields of environmental conservation and humanitarian aid. He continues to perform with The Rolling Stones and remains a beloved and influential figure in the world of music and entertainment.
1. (I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction
“(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” is one of the most iconic songs by The Rolling Stones, released in 1965 as a single and later included on their album “Out of Our Heads.” The track is characterized by its instantly recognizable guitar riff, played by Keith Richards, and its rebellious and provocative lyrics.
“(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” became an anthem of the rebellious spirit of the 1960s, with its lyrics expressing frustration with commercialism, consumer culture, and the status quo. The song’s catchy melody and infectious groove made it an instant hit, topping the charts in numerous countries around the world and catapulting The Rolling Stones to international fame.
With its memorable chorus and Mick Jagger’s dynamic vocal delivery, “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” remains one of the most enduring and beloved rock songs of all time. It has been covered by numerous artists and featured in countless films, TV shows, and commercials, cementing its status as a classic in the rock music canon.
2. “Paint It Black”
“Paint It Black” is a classic rock song by The Rolling Stones, released in 1966 as a single and later included on their album “Aftermath.” The track is characterized by its haunting melody, distinctive sitar riff, and evocative lyrics.
“Paint It Black” is notable for its dark and introspective lyrics, which explore themes of grief, loss, and despair. The song’s narrator describes their world turning black in the wake of a personal tragedy, expressing a desire to paint everything black as a reflection of their inner turmoil.
With its hypnotic rhythm and Mick Jagger’s emotive vocal performance, “Paint It Black” became a commercial success, topping the charts in multiple countries and earning critical acclaim. The song’s innovative use of the sitar, played by Brian Jones, added to its unique sound and contributed to its lasting impact.
“Paint It Black” remains one of The Rolling Stones’ most iconic and enduring songs, cherished by fans for its powerful lyrics and atmospheric music. It has been covered by numerous artists and featured in various films, TV shows, and commercials, solidifying its status as a classic in the rock music canon.
3. “Jumpin’ Jack Flash”
“Jumpin’ Jack Flash” is a classic rock song by the Rolling Stones, featuring Mick Jagger as the lead vocalist. Released in 1968 as a single, the song has become one of the band’s signature hits and an iconic rock anthem. “Jumpin’ Jack Flash” is characterized by its infectious guitar riff, driving rhythm, and Jagger’s dynamic vocal performance. Lyrically, the song tells the story of a rough-and-tumble character named Jumpin’ Jack Flash, with cryptic and enigmatic verses that have sparked various interpretations over the years. With its energetic sound and rebellious attitude, “Jumpin’ Jack Flash” remains a timeless classic in the Rolling Stones’ extensive catalog, celebrated for its raw energy and enduring appeal.
4. “Sympathy for the Devil”
“Sympathy for the Devil” is an iconic rock song by the Rolling Stones, featuring Mick Jagger as the lead vocalist. Released in 1968 as part of their album “Beggars Banquet,” the song is renowned for its provocative lyrics, captivating rhythm, and Jagger’s charismatic vocal delivery. “Sympathy for the Devil” presents a first-person narrative from the perspective of the Devil, recounting various historical events and human atrocities. The song explores themes of temptation, evil, and the darker aspects of human nature. With its hypnotic groove and enigmatic lyrics, “Sympathy for the Devil” remains one of the Rolling Stones’ most acclaimed and enduring compositions, revered as a masterpiece of rock music.
5. “Brown Sugar”
“Brown Sugar” is a rock song by The Rolling Stones, released in 1971 as the opening track and lead single from their album “Sticky Fingers.” The track is characterized by its catchy guitar riff, driving rhythm, and controversial lyrics.
“Brown Sugar” is known for its upbeat tempo and energetic performance, with Mick Jagger’s raw and provocative vocals delivering lyrics that touch on themes of slavery, interracial relationships, and sexual desire. The song’s lyrics have sparked controversy over the years for their explicit content and racially charged imagery.
Despite its controversial lyrics, “Brown Sugar” became a commercial success, topping the charts in multiple countries and earning critical acclaim. The song’s infectious groove and Mick Jagger’s dynamic vocal performance made it a staple of The Rolling Stones’ live performances and a favorite among fans.
“Brown Sugar” remains one of The Rolling Stones’ most iconic and enduring songs, recognized for its influence on rock music and its place in the band’s discography. Despite the controversy surrounding its lyrics, the song’s catchy melody and electrifying energy have ensured its lasting legacy in the rock music canon.
6. “Angie”
“Angie” is a poignant ballad by the Rolling Stones, featuring Mick Jagger as the lead vocalist. Released in 1973 as a single, the song is included on their album “Goats Head Soup.” “Angie” is characterized by its gentle acoustic guitar accompaniment, melancholic melody, and Jagger’s emotive vocal performance. Lyrically, the song addresses themes of love, heartbreak, and longing, with the narrator expressing regret over the end of a relationship and longing for reconciliation. While the inspiration behind the song’s lyrics has been the subject of speculation, “Angie” remains one of the Rolling Stones’ most beloved and enduring songs, cherished for its emotional depth and timeless appeal.
7. “Miss You”
“Miss You” is a disco-influenced rock song by The Rolling Stones, released in 1978 as a single from their album “Some Girls.” The track is characterized by its funky bassline, danceable groove, and soulful vocals.
“Miss You” marked a departure from The Rolling Stones’ traditional rock sound, incorporating elements of disco and funk music popular at the time. The song features a prominent bassline by Bill Wyman, rhythmic guitar work by Keith Richards, and Mick Jagger’s soulful vocals delivering lyrics about longing and loneliness.
Despite the departure from their rock roots, “Miss You” became a commercial success, topping the charts in multiple countries and earning critical acclaim. The song’s infectious rhythm and catchy chorus made it a favorite on dance floors and radio stations around the world.
“Miss You” remains one of The Rolling Stones’ most successful and enduring songs, recognized for its influence on popular music and its place in the band’s diverse discography. It has been covered by numerous artists and featured in various films, TV shows, and commercials, solidifying its status as a classic in the rock and disco genres.
8. “Start Me Up”
“Start Me Up” is a rock song by the Rolling Stones, featuring Mick Jagger on vocals. It was released in 1981 as the lead single from their album “Tattoo You.” The song is characterized by its infectious guitar riff, catchy chorus, and energetic rhythm. “Start Me Up” is a quintessential rock anthem, celebrated for its driving beat and Jagger’s dynamic vocal performance. Lyrically, the song captures the excitement and adrenaline rush of starting something new, whether it be a relationship or a new venture. With its memorable melody and irresistible groove, “Start Me Up” became one of the Rolling Stones’ biggest hits and remains a staple of their live performances, loved by fans worldwide.
9. “Honky Tonk Women”
“Honky Tonk Women” is a classic rock song by The Rolling Stones, released in 1969 as a single and later included on their compilation album “Through the Past, Darkly (Big Hits Vol. 2).” The track is characterized by its infectious rhythm, bluesy guitar riff, and rollicking energy.
“Honky Tonk Women” features Mick Jagger’s distinctive vocal delivery, accompanied by Keith Richards’ memorable guitar work and Charlie Watts’ driving drums. The song’s lyrics depict the narrator’s encounters with various women, particularly those from the honky-tonk scene, and capture the carefree spirit of the 1960s.
With its catchy melody and upbeat tempo, “Honky Tonk Women” became a commercial success, topping the charts in multiple countries and earning critical acclaim. The song’s irresistible groove and memorable chorus made it a favorite among fans and a staple of The Rolling Stones’ live performances.
“Honky Tonk Women” remains one of The Rolling Stones’ most beloved and enduring songs, celebrated for its infectious energy and timeless appeal. It has been covered by numerous artists and featured in various films, TV shows, and commercials, solidifying its status as a classic in the rock music canon.
10. (Ghost) Riders on the Storm
“(Ghost) Riders on the Storm” is a classic rock song by The Doors, featuring Jim Morrison on vocals. It was released in 1971 as the last track on their album “L.A. Woman.” The song is characterized by its haunting atmosphere, driven by Ray Manzarek’s atmospheric keyboard playing and Robby Krieger’s evocative guitar work. Lyrically, “(Ghost) Riders on the Storm” tells the tale of a mysterious and ominous journey, with Morrison’s lyrics invoking images of a lone rider traveling through a stormy night. The song’s mesmerizing melody and Morrison’s mesmerizing delivery contribute to its enduring popularity and its status as one of The Doors’ most iconic tracks.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
