Mick Jagger, born Michael Philip Jagger on July 26, 1943, in Dartford, Kent, England, is an iconic English singer, songwriter, actor, and producer. He is best known as the lead vocalist and one of the founding members of the legendary rock band The Rolling Stones.
Jagger’s career with The Rolling Stones spans over six decades, during which the band has achieved unparalleled success and become one of the most influential and enduring acts in the history of rock music. With hits like “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction,” “Paint It Black,” “Sympathy for the Devil,” and “Gimme Shelter,” Jagger’s distinctive voice, charismatic stage presence, and dynamic performances have solidified his status as one of the greatest frontmen in rock history.
Beyond his work with The Rolling Stones, Jagger has pursued a successful solo career, releasing several albums and singles. His solo discography includes hits like “Just Another Night” and “Don’t Tear Me Up.” Jagger has also collaborated with various artists across different genres, further showcasing his versatility as a musician.
In addition to his music career, Jagger has ventured into acting, appearing in films such as “Performance,” “Ned Kelly,” and “The Man from Elysian Fields.” He has also produced films and television projects through his production company, Jagged Films.
Jagger’s influence extends beyond music and film; he is also known for his fashion sense, cultural impact, and outspoken personality. He has been recognized with numerous awards and honors throughout his career, including induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of The Rolling Stones.
Even in his later years, Jagger continues to perform with The Rolling Stones, proving that his passion for music and his talent as a performer remain as strong as ever. His enduring legacy as a rock icon and cultural phenomenon is a testament to his unparalleled contributions to the world of music and entertainment.
1. Old Habits Die Hard
“Old Habits Die Hard” is a song by Mick Jagger and Dave Stewart, released in 2004. It was featured as the theme song for the film “Alfie,” starring Jude Law, for which Jagger also served as an executive producer. The song was written by Jagger and Stewart and won the Golden Globe Award for Best Original Song in 2005.
“Old Habits Die Hard” is a bluesy and soulful track, featuring Jagger’s distinctive vocals accompanied by Stewart’s guitar work and a catchy melody. Lyrically, the song explores themes of addiction, temptation, and the struggle to break free from old patterns of behavior. The title reflects the idea that deeply ingrained habits are difficult to overcome, even when one knows they are harmful.
The song received critical acclaim for its powerful vocals, memorable melody, and evocative lyrics. It became one of Jagger’s most successful solo efforts, earning him praise for his songwriting and musical performance. “Old Habits Die Hard” remains a fan favorite and a standout track in Jagger’s solo discography, showcasing his enduring talent as a songwriter and performer.
2. Wired All Night
“Wired All Night” is a song by Mick Jagger, released on his second solo album, “Wandering Spirit,” in 1993. The song was written by Mick Jagger and features contributions from various musicians, including guitarist Jimmy Rip and drummer Curt Bisquera.
“Wired All Night” is a bluesy rock song with a driving rhythm and gritty guitar riffs. The lyrics depict a narrator who is restless and unable to sleep, finding solace and excitement in the nightlife and the company of others. The song’s title refers to the narrator’s state of being wired or energized throughout the night.
Musically, “Wired All Night” features Mick Jagger’s distinctive vocals, characterized by his gravelly tone and dynamic delivery. The song’s instrumentation is characterized by its blues-inspired guitar licks and propulsive rhythm section, creating a sense of urgency and energy.
“Wired All Night” received positive reviews from music critics upon its release, with praise for its catchy melody and Jagger’s impassioned performance. While not as commercially successful as some of Jagger’s previous solo efforts, the song remains a favorite among fans and showcases Jagger’s enduring talent as a songwriter and performer.
3. Lucky In Love
“Lucky in Love” is a song by the British rock band Mick Jagger, released as a single in 1985. It was included on Jagger’s debut solo album, “She’s the Boss,” released the same year. The song was written by Mick Jagger and Rupert Hine.
“Lucky in Love” is a catchy pop-rock song with a danceable groove and upbeat rhythm. The lyrics tell the story of someone who feels fortunate to have found love, despite the challenges and uncertainties that life may bring. The narrator expresses gratitude for their partner and celebrates the joy and fulfillment that love brings to their life.
Musically, “Lucky in Love” features infectious guitar riffs, funky basslines, and catchy hooks, typical of the 1980s pop-rock sound. Mick Jagger’s distinctive vocals add energy and charisma to the song, capturing the excitement and optimism of being in love.
While “Lucky in Love” did not achieve the same level of commercial success as some of Mick Jagger’s other solo singles, it remains a fan favorite and a staple of his live performances. The song’s upbeat melody and positive message make it a feel-good anthem that continues to resonate with audiences.
4. Sweet Thing
“Sweet Thing” is a song by Van Morrison, featured on his 1968 album “Astral Weeks.” It’s one of the standout tracks from the album, which is widely regarded as one of Morrison’s masterpieces and a landmark in the realm of folk rock and singer-songwriter music.
“Sweet Thing” is characterized by its soulful and introspective lyrics, poetic imagery, and atmospheric instrumentation. The song begins with a gentle acoustic guitar riff and builds gradually, with layers of strings, flute, and piano adding depth to the arrangement. Morrison’s emotive vocals convey a sense of longing and yearning as he sings about love and the beauty of nature.
Lyrically, “Sweet Thing” explores themes of love, desire, and spirituality. The song’s narrator expresses a deep sense of connection with his lover and with the natural world around him, finding solace and meaning in the simple pleasures of life.
“Sweet Thing” has been praised for its poetic lyricism, rich musical textures, and haunting melody. It remains one of Van Morrison’s most beloved songs and a standout track in his extensive catalog. The song’s timeless appeal and emotional depth continue to resonate with listeners, cementing its status as a classic in the singer-songwriter genre.
5. Party Doll
“Party Doll” is a song written by Buddy Knox and Jimmy Bowen, and it was originally performed by Buddy Knox in 1957. The song was a major hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
“Party Doll” is a rock and roll song with a catchy melody and upbeat rhythm. The lyrics tell the story of a young man who is infatuated with a girl, referring to her as his “party doll” and expressing his desire to have her by his side at all times.
The song’s lively tempo, energetic vocals, and infectious chorus made it a favorite among audiences in the late 1950s. It became a signature song for Buddy Knox and remains a classic of the early rock and roll era.
“Party Doll” has been covered by various artists over the years, further solidifying its status as a timeless rock and roll anthem. It continues to be celebrated for its catchy melody and enduring popularity among fans of the genre.
6. Lonely At The Top
“Lonely at the Top” is a song by American singer-songwriter Randy Newman. It was released in 1972 as part of his album “Sail Away.” The song is characterized by Newman’s signature style of satirical songwriting and ironic humor.
In “Lonely at the Top,” Newman adopts the persona of a successful and wealthy individual who seemingly has everything one could desire: money, fame, and power. However, despite his outward success, the protagonist reveals that he feels isolated and unfulfilled. He sings about the emptiness of his glamorous lifestyle, expressing a sense of loneliness and disillusionment that accompanies his elevated position in society.
Musically, “Lonely at the Top” features a simple piano accompaniment, allowing Newman’s distinctive vocals and biting lyrics to take center stage. The song’s melancholic melody and wry humor create a juxtaposition that underscores the protagonist’s inner turmoil and existential angst.
“Lonely at the Top” has been praised for its incisive social commentary and Newman’s insightful songwriting. It has become one of his most iconic songs and remains a favorite among fans for its poignant portrayal of the complexities of success and the human condition.
7. God Gave Me Everything
“God Gave Me Everything” is a song by Mick Jagger, featuring Lenny Kravitz, released in 2001 as the lead single from Jagger’s fourth solo album, “Goddess in the Doorway.”
Written by Mick Jagger and Lenny Kravitz, “God Gave Me Everything” is a rock song with elements of funk and electronic music. The lyrics express gratitude for life’s blessings and reflect on the wonders of existence, with the refrain “God gave me everything I want” serving as a celebration of abundance and fulfillment.
The song features Mick Jagger’s signature vocals alongside Lenny Kravitz’s guitar work and backing vocals. It incorporates energetic guitar riffs, driving percussion, and catchy hooks, creating a dynamic and infectious sound.
“God Gave Me Everything” was well-received by critics and became a moderate commercial success, reaching the top forty in several countries. The song’s music video, directed by Mark Romanek, features Mick Jagger performing alongside various dancers and visual effects, adding to the song’s energetic and vibrant atmosphere.
Overall, “God Gave Me Everything” is celebrated for its catchy melody, energetic performance, and positive message, making it a standout track in Mick Jagger’s solo discography.
8. Don’t Tear Me Up
“Don’t Tear Me Up” is a song by Mick Jagger, released as a single from his third solo album, “Wandering Spirit,” in 1993. The song was written by Mick Jagger and produced by Rick Rubin.
“Don’t Tear Me Up” is a soulful and introspective ballad that showcases Jagger’s emotive vocals and introspective lyrics. The song features a slow tempo and a bluesy arrangement, with prominent piano and guitar accompaniment. Lyrically, Jagger sings about vulnerability and the fear of being hurt in a relationship. He pleads with his lover not to tear him apart emotionally and expresses a desire for understanding and empathy.
The song received positive reviews from critics, who praised Jagger’s performance and the song’s heartfelt lyrics. Although it did not achieve significant commercial success as a single, “Don’t Tear Me Up” remains a fan favorite and a standout track on the “Wandering Spirit” album. It showcases Jagger’s talent as a songwriter and performer outside of his work with The Rolling Stones, highlighting his ability to convey raw emotion and vulnerability through his music.
9. Dancing In The Streets
“Dancing in the Street” is a classic song originally recorded by Martha and the Vandellas in 1964. It was written by Marvin Gaye, William “Mickey” Stevenson, and Ivy Jo Hunter. The song became a signature hit for Martha and the Vandellas and has since been covered by numerous artists.
“Dancing in the Street” is a lively and infectious dance song with a catchy melody and upbeat rhythm. Lyrically, the song celebrates the joy of dancing and the sense of community that comes from sharing music and movement with others. The lyrics evoke images of people dancing in the streets and coming together to enjoy life and express themselves through music.
The song’s energetic vocals, driving beat, and soulful instrumentation contributed to its widespread popularity and enduring appeal. It became an anthem of the civil rights movement and a symbol of social unity and celebration.
Over the years, “Dancing in the Street” has been covered by artists from various genres, including The Rolling Stones, Van Halen, and David Bowie and Mick Jagger, whose version became a hit in 1985. The song remains a beloved classic and a staple of dance parties and celebrations around the world, continuing to inspire people to get up and dance whenever it comes on.
10. Just Another Night
“Just Another Night” is a song by Mick Jagger, released in 1985 as the lead single from his debut solo album, “She’s the Boss.”
Written by Mick Jagger and performed by Jagger, “Just Another Night” is a rock song with elements of pop and dance music. The lyrics depict a narrator who finds himself caught up in the excitement and hedonism of nightlife, seeking temporary escape from the pressures and responsibilities of everyday life. The song’s refrain “Just another night, and I’m all alone” captures a sense of loneliness amidst the revelry.
Musically, “Just Another Night” features a driving rhythm, catchy guitar riffs, and synthesizer-driven melodies, characteristic of the 1980s pop-rock sound. Mick Jagger’s distinctive vocals add energy and charisma to the song, conveying a mix of vulnerability and bravado.
The song was a commercial success, reaching the top twenty in several countries and earning positive reviews from music critics. Its catchy melody and infectious energy made it a favorite among fans and a staple of Jagger’s live performances.
Overall, “Just Another Night” remains one of Mick Jagger’s most well-known solo songs, celebrated for its catchy hooks, dynamic performance, and relatable lyrics about the thrill and escapism of nightlife.