Mick Jagger is a legendary English musician, singer, songwriter, and actor, best known as the lead vocalist and one of the founding members of The Rolling Stones. Born Michael Philip Jagger on July 26, 1943, in Dartford, Kent, England, he became a prominent figure in the rock and roll scene.
Jagger co-founded The Rolling Stones in 1962, along with guitarist Keith Richards, pianist Ian Stewart, guitarist Brian Jones, drummer Charlie Watts, and bassist Bill Wyman. The band quickly rose to fame as part of the British Invasion and became known for their energetic performances, rebellious image, and enduring catalog of rock hits.
Mick Jagger is renowned for his distinctive voice, charismatic stage presence, and dynamic performances. He has been a key songwriter for The Rolling Stones, co-writing many of their most iconic songs with Keith Richards. Some of their classic hits include “Paint It Black,” “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction,” “Angie,” and “Sympathy for the Devil.”
In addition to his music career, Jagger has pursued acting, appearing in films such as “Performance” (1970) and “The Man from Elysian Fields” (2001). Over the decades, he has become an enduring and influential figure in the world of rock music, with The Rolling Stones standing as one of the greatest and longest-running rock bands in history.
1. (I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction
“(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” is one of the most iconic and enduring rock songs, recorded by The Rolling Stones. Released in 1965, the song quickly became a global sensation and is widely regarded as one of the greatest rock and roll tracks of all time.
Written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, the song’s lyrics express frustration and disillusionment with commercialism and modern society. The famous guitar riff, played by Richards, is instantly recognizable and has become a symbol of the rebellious spirit of rock music. The song features Jagger’s distinctive vocal delivery, characterized by its swagger and attitude.
“(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” topped charts around the world, including the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States. Its success propelled The Rolling Stones to international stardom and established them as one of the leading bands of the 1960s rock revolution.
The song’s impact goes beyond its initial release, as it has been covered and referenced by countless artists in various genres. The enduring popularity of “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” is a testament to its timeless appeal and its status as a cultural touchstone in the history of rock music.
2. Paint It Black
“Paint It Black” is a classic rock song by The Rolling Stones, released in 1966. It was written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards and stands out for its distinctive Eastern-influenced musical arrangement and introspective lyrics.
The song begins with a sitar played by Brian Jones, giving it a unique and memorable sound that set it apart from many other rock songs of the time. The sitar, along with Charlie Watts’ powerful drumming, creates a driving and hypnotic rhythm. Jagger’s vocals convey a sense of darkness and melancholy, complementing the overall mood of the song.
Lyrically, “Paint It Black” explores themes of mourning and introspection. The narrator expresses a desire to paint everything black, symbolizing a bleak and nihilistic outlook on life. The song’s evocative lyrics, combined with its innovative musical elements, contributed to its success and enduring popularity.
“Paint It Black” became a chart-topping hit in several countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom. Its impact goes beyond its initial release, as the song has been featured in various films, TV shows, and commercials over the years. The Rolling Stones’ ability to experiment with different musical styles, as demonstrated in “Paint It Black,” showcases their versatility and enduring influence in the world of rock music.
3. Gimme Shelter
“Gimme Shelter” is a song by The Rolling Stones, and it features Mick Jagger as the lead vocalist. The song was released in 1969 as the opening track of the band’s album “Let It Bleed.” Written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, “Gimme Shelter” is widely regarded as one of The Rolling Stones’ greatest and most iconic songs.
The song is notable for its powerful and haunting atmosphere, driven by the distinctive guitar riff played by Keith Richards and the guest vocals of Merry Clayton. Lyrically, “Gimme Shelter” reflects the turbulent social and political climate of the late 1960s, with themes of violence, war, and the search for sanctuary.
Mick Jagger’s vocal performance on “Gimme Shelter” is intense and emotionally charged, perfectly capturing the urgency and unrest conveyed by the song’s lyrics. The use of background vocals, especially Merry Clayton’s soulful and soaring contribution, adds depth and impact to the overall sound.
“Gimme Shelter” has been praised for its musical brilliance and its ability to capture the spirit of the era. It has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials, solidifying its status as a timeless and influential piece of rock music.
4. Sympathy for the Devil
“Sympathy for the Devil” is a iconic song by The Rolling Stones, released in 1968 on their album “Beggars Banquet.” The song, written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, is notable for its distinctive blend of rock, blues, and Latin rhythms, as well as its provocative and controversial lyrics.
The lyrics of “Sympathy for the Devil” are narrated from the perspective of Lucifer, tracing his influence throughout various historical events. The chorus repeatedly declares, “Pleased to meet you, hope you guess my name,” creating a sense of ambiguity and challenge. The song’s narrative explores themes of temptation, chaos, and the darker aspects of human history.
Musically, the song features a prominent percussion section, including congas played by Rocky Dijon, which gives it a distinct and infectious rhythm. Jagger’s vocal delivery is charismatic and embodies the character of the Devil, while Richards’ guitar work adds a bluesy and gritty edge to the overall sound.
“Sympathy for the Devil” has become one of The Rolling Stones’ most enduring and influential songs. It has been covered by numerous artists and featured in various films, TV shows, and commercials. The song’s impact goes beyond its initial release, solidifying its place in the cultural and musical landscape as a masterpiece of rock and roll.
5. You Can’t Always Get What You Want
“You Can’t Always Get What You Want” is a song by The Rolling Stones, and it features Mick Jagger as the lead vocalist. The song was released in 1969 on the album “Let It Bleed” and has since become one of The Rolling Stones’ signature tracks.
The song is known for its distinctive structure, incorporating elements of rock, pop, and gospel. It begins with a choir singing a choral arrangement before transitioning into a folk-inspired section and then building into a classic rock arrangement. The lyrics, written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, convey a message of acceptance and resilience in the face of life’s challenges.
Mick Jagger’s vocal performance on “You Can’t Always Get What You Want” is emotionally resonant, and the song showcases his ability to convey both vulnerability and strength. The memorable choir arrangement, arranged by Jack Nitzsche, adds a unique and uplifting dimension to the track.
The song gained cultural significance and has been featured in various films, TV shows, and commercials. It remains one of The Rolling Stones’ most enduring and beloved songs, often performed live during their concerts. “You Can’t Always Get What You Want” has become a classic example of the band’s musical versatility and enduring impact.
6. Angie
“Angie” is a ballad by The Rolling Stones, released in 1973 on their album “Goats Head Soup.” Written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, the song is known for its tender and introspective lyrics, contrasting with some of the band’s more rock-oriented material.
The inspiration behind “Angie” has been the subject of various interpretations. Some believe the song is about Jagger’s tumultuous relationship with his then-wife, Angela Bowie, while others suggest it may be a reflection on the end of Jagger’s relationship with Marianne Faithfull. The ambiguity in the lyrics allows listeners to connect with the emotional resonance of lost love and heartbreak.
Musically, “Angie” is characterized by its acoustic guitar-driven arrangement, featuring gentle strumming and a memorable lead guitar solo by Mick Taylor. Jagger’s emotive vocals add depth to the song’s melancholic atmosphere. The overall mood is reflective and mournful, creating a stark contrast to the band’s more upbeat and raucous tracks.
“Angie” became one of The Rolling Stones’ biggest hits, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries. Its enduring popularity is attributed to its timeless melody, poignant lyrics, and the band’s ability to showcase a softer, more intimate side. The song remains a classic in The Rolling Stones’ catalog and a significant contribution to the genre of rock ballads.
7. Miss You
“Miss You” is a song by The Rolling Stones, and it features Mick Jagger as the lead vocalist. Released in 1978, the song is part of their album “Some Girls.” “Miss You” marked a departure from the band’s traditional rock sound, incorporating elements of disco, funk, and dance music.
Mick Jagger’s vocals on “Miss You” are characterized by a soulful and falsetto delivery. The lyrics convey a sense of longing and loneliness, with Jagger singing about the absence of a loved one. The use of a prominent bassline and rhythmic guitar chords gives the song a danceable and groovy feel.
The incorporation of disco elements in “Miss You” was a departure for The Rolling Stones but proved to be successful, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries. The song’s infectious and rhythmic quality made it a favorite on dance floors, and it remains one of the band’s most commercially successful and recognizable tracks.
“Miss You” showcases Mick Jagger’s versatility as a vocalist and the band’s ability to experiment with different musical genres while maintaining their distinctive sound. The song continues to be a popular and enduring part of The Rolling Stones’ catalog.
8. Start Me Up
“Start Me Up” is a rock song by The Rolling Stones, released in 1981 on their album “Tattoo You.” Written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, the song is known for its infectious energy, catchy guitar riff, and dynamic performance.
The distinctive opening riff, played by Keith Richards, is one of the most recognizable in rock music. The song quickly gained popularity for its upbeat and danceable vibe, becoming a staple in The Rolling Stones’ live performances. Jagger’s vocals are energetic and exuberant, perfectly complementing the driving rhythm of the music.
“Start Me Up” was originally recorded during the sessions for the band’s 1978 album “Some Girls” but was not included on the release. It was later revisited and completed for “Tattoo You.” The song’s lyrics are suggestive and playful, with Jagger delivering lines that hint at desire and attraction.
Upon its release, “Start Me Up” became a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in various countries. The song has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials, further solidifying its status as one of The Rolling Stones’ most iconic and enduring tracks. Its infectious groove and memorable guitar riff continue to make it a fan favorite and a classic in the rock genre.
9. Brown Sugar
“Brown Sugar” is a song by The Rolling Stones, featuring Mick Jagger as the lead vocalist. It was released in 1971 as the lead single from their album “Sticky Fingers.” The song is a classic rock anthem that reflects the band’s blues-rock roots and showcases Mick Jagger’s dynamic vocal performance.
Lyrically, “Brown Sugar” is a controversial and provocative song that touches on themes of slavery, racism, and sexual exploitation. The lyrics were criticized for their explicit content, but the song’s catchy melody and upbeat rhythm helped it achieve commercial success.
Mick Jagger’s vocal delivery on “Brown Sugar” is characterized by its raw energy and swagger, capturing the rebellious spirit of rock ‘n’ roll. The song features a memorable guitar riff played by Keith Richards and includes prominent contributions from other band members, such as Charlie Watts on drums and Bill Wyman on bass.
Despite the controversy surrounding its lyrics, “Brown Sugar” became one of The Rolling Stones’ biggest hits, reaching the top of the charts in various countries. The song’s enduring popularity and its inclusion in the band’s live performances highlight its significance in the rock canon.
10. Tumbling Dice
“Tumbling Dice” is a rock and roll song by The Rolling Stones, released in 1972 as the lead single from their album “Exile on Main St.” Written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, the song is renowned for its bluesy groove, gritty lyrics, and dynamic musical arrangement.
The lyrics of “Tumbling Dice” depict the ups and downs of life, relationships, and the unpredictability of fate. The title and chorus use the metaphor of rolling dice, suggesting the randomness and uncertainty inherent in various aspects of life. Jagger’s vocals exude a sense of swagger and coolness, fitting the song’s blues-rock style.
Musically, “Tumbling Dice” features a memorable guitar riff, played by Keith Richards, and a soulful horn section, adding to the overall richness of the sound. The song’s infectious rhythm and Jagger’s distinctive vocal delivery contribute to its timeless appeal.
“Tumbling Dice” became a commercial success, reaching high chart positions in several countries. Over the years, the song has become a classic in The Rolling Stones’ repertoire and is frequently performed in their live shows. Its combination of blues, rock, and soul elements showcases the band’s musical versatility and enduring influence on the rock genre.
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.
