Mick Jagger, the iconic Rolling Stones frontman, has long been a passionate advocate and connoisseur of the blues. His deep-seated love for the genre traces back to his teenage years, and this lifelong appreciation has profoundly shaped his career.
Jagger’s journey with the blues was instrumental in forming The Rolling Stones, and his immersion in the genre rekindled his friendship with Keith Richards, ultimately leading to one of rock’s most celebrated partnerships. It all began when Richards spotted Jagger holding a Muddy Waters record at a train station—an encounter that sparked a conversation and led to their legendary musical collaboration.
The Rolling Stones, heavily inspired by blues greats, chose their band name from Muddy Waters’ song “Rollin’ Stone.” Over the years, Jagger has consistently honored his influences, openly acknowledging the blues musicians who paved the way. In 2020, he hosted the radio show Blues Power on Planet Rock, where he handpicked a playlist of his ten favorite blues songs, showcasing his extensive knowledge of the genre with selections that span from classic blues pioneers to modern artists.
Kicking off his list was Freddie King’s “Palace of the King.” Jagger praised King’s guitar work and noted the track’s unique production, commenting, “Freddie King, a great guitar player… it’s kind of slightly, you may say commercial, but I think it’s a fantastic blues record.” Another highlight from Jagger’s list was Sister Rosetta Tharpe’s “Strange Things Are Happening Every Day,” which he acknowledged as a song that questioned societal changes following WWII. Jagger admired Tharpe’s ability to blend gospel and blues, adding, “She wanted to cross over… be a pop singer, a blues singer.”
Buddy Guy’s “Baby Please Don’t Leave Me” also made Jagger’s list, a tribute to Guy’s raw sound and connection to the Mississippi Delta. Of the recording, Jagger explained how it aimed to capture Guy’s roots, saying, “It was taking Buddy back literally to Mississippi… they used a lot of local Mississippi musicians in an attempt to get Buddy back into the Mississippi Delta.”
Jagger’s list didn’t shy away from contemporary blues either. He included “Alright Alright” by Alabama Shakes, expressing admiration for Brittany Howard’s powerful vocals, noting, “Bringing things really up to the present day, Brittany Howard, fantastic singer with the Alabama Shakes… which I particularly like.”
Other notable selections from Jagger’s playlist included Little Walter, Memphis Minnie, and Joe Louis Walker, each adding a unique perspective to the show’s rich tapestry of blues history. Jagger’s carefully curated list offers a glimpse into the songs that continue to influence and inspire him, revealing a mix of deep roots and modern expressions within his beloved genre.
