In rock and roll, chemistry often determines a band’s success. Throwing two legends into a room doesn’t guarantee magic, and history is littered with failed collaborations. Despite his monumental influence, Mick Jagger once found himself in a creative disconnect with the rising country-rock star Gram Parsons—at least, according to Keith Richards.
Parsons entered The Rolling Stones’ orbit as a country music trailblazer, far from their blues-drenched roots. With his contributions to The Byrds and The Flying Burrito Brothers, Parsons was reshaping American music, blending country with rock, and catching the attention of stars like Linda Ronstadt and Emmylou Harris. Meanwhile, The Stones were flirting with Americana, crafting country-tinged tracks like “Dead Flowers.” For Richards, Parsons was a kindred spirit. For Jagger? Not so much.
Richards saw potential in Parsons as a musical confidant. During the recording of Exile on Main St. in France, their bond grew.
“Mick and Gram never really clicked, mainly because The Stones are such a tribal thing,” Richards told Rolling Stone. “But Mick was listening. He’s got ears. Sometimes, while waiting for the band to arrive, the three of us would be plonking away on Hank Williams songs.”
Jagger’s detachment likely stemmed from his own mixed feelings about country music. While he appreciated the style, he struggled to take it seriously. This sentiment was evident in Stones tracks like “Dear Doctor,” where Jagger exaggerated a southern accent, adding an almost comedic twist to the genre.
Richards’ collaboration with Parsons may have also stoked a bit of jealousy. As the other half of the Stones’ songwriting engine, Jagger wasn’t accustomed to sharing Richards’ attention. Parsons’ presence during Exile likely added some tension to an already intricate dynamic.
Ultimately, Jagger had little reason to worry. Despite Parsons’ influence, Exile on Main St. remained unmistakably a Stones record—gritty, raw, and undeniably theirs. For Jagger, it was just another day shifting effortlessly between genres: down-and-out country one moment, arena-dominating rock the next.
Parsons may not have clicked with Jagger, but his brief stint in the Stones’ universe left a mark, contributing to one of the band’s most celebrated albums. Even when the chemistry wasn’t perfect, the music found its way to greatness.
