The Story Behind The Rolling Stones' ‘Sympathy For The Devil’

The Legendary Partnership of Jagger and Richards

Since their formation in 1962, The Rolling Stones have been at the forefront of rock music, with Mick Jagger and Keith Richards forming one of the most influential songwriting duos. Their collaboration has produced numerous hits, but few have sparked as much debate as "Sympathy For The Devil."

The Political Climate of the 1960s

The 1960s were a time of significant social and political upheaval. The Rolling Stones often found themselves at the center of controversy, both for their music and their public personas. For example, their song "Street Fighting Man" was banned by several radio stations due to its perceived encouragement of racial and student protests.

The Birth of "Sympathy For The Devil"

Released in 1968 as part of the album "Beggars Banquet," "Sympathy For The Devil" was a bold and daring move. The song's lyrics, written by Jagger, present the devil as a suave and sophisticated figure, responsible for some of history's most heinous acts. From the Nazi blitzkrieg to the Russian Revolution, and even the assassination of JFK, Jagger's devil claims responsibility with a chilling nonchalance.

The Inspiration Behind the Lyrics

Jagger has cited various influences for the song's lyrics, including the works of French poet Charles Baudelaire and Russian author Mikhail Bulgakov. The latter's novel, "The Master and Margarita," features a sophisticated devil character that likely inspired Jagger's portrayal.

The Controversy and Impact

Upon its release, "Sympathy For The Devil" was met with a mix of shock and admiration. The song's provocative lyrics and dark themes led to accusations of devil worship and moral corruption. Despite—or perhaps because of—this controversy, the song became one of The Rolling Stones' most enduring hits.

Cultural and Musical Influence

"Sympathy For The Devil" has been covered by numerous artists and remains a staple in The Rolling Stones' live performances. Its influence extends beyond music, impacting literature, film, and popular culture. The song's unique blend of rock, samba, and blues elements has been widely praised for its innovation.

Interesting Stats and Lesser-Known Facts

• Chart Performance: Despite its controversial nature, "Sympathy For The Devil" reached number 32 on the UK Singles Chart and number 97 on the US Billboard Hot 100.
• Recording Process: The song was recorded over a five-day period at Olympic Studios in London. The recording sessions were documented by filmmaker Jean-Luc Godard in his film "One Plus One."
• Cultural Impact: The song has been featured in numerous films, including Martin Scorsese's "Casino" and the TV series "The Sopranos."

The Legacy of "Sympathy For The Devil"

More than five decades after its release, "Sympathy For The Devil" continues to captivate audiences. Its daring lyrics, innovative sound, and cultural impact have cemented its place in rock history.

Conclusion

"Sympathy For The Devil" is more than just a song; it's a cultural phenomenon that encapsulates the rebellious spirit of The Rolling Stones. Its legacy endures, reminding us of the power of music to challenge, provoke, and inspire.

For more in-depth analysis and historical context, you can read the full story on Happy Mag.

References

1. "The Rolling Stones' 'Sympathy For The Devil' – The Story Behind The Song." Happy Mag. Link
2. "The Master and Margarita" by Mikhail Bulgakov. Link
3. "Sympathy For The Devil" Chart Performance. Official Charts Company. Link

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