Mick Jagger’s Musical Collaborations: A Journey Beyond the Rolling Stones

Mick Jagger, the iconic frontman of the Rolling Stones, is a name synonymous with rock and roll. His electrifying stage presence and rebellious spirit have captivated audiences for decades. However, Jagger’s musical journey extends far beyond the confines of the Stones. Throughout his prolific career, he has embarked on numerous collaborations, lending his distinctive vocals and songwriting talents to a diverse array of artists and projects. From reggae to blues, pop to soul, Jagger’s collaborative endeavors reveal a multifaceted artist constantly seeking new avenues for creative expression. This article delves into the rich tapestry of Mick Jagger’s musical collaborations, exploring the diverse projects that have shaped his legacy beyond the Rolling Stones.

Early Solo Ventures and Unexpected Partnerships

Jagger’s first foray outside the Stones came in 1970 with “Memo From Turner,” a solo single featuring Ry Cooder’s masterful slide guitar. This track, co-written with Keith Richards, appeared on the soundtrack of the film Performance, in which Jagger fittingly portrayed a rock star.

A few years later, in 1972, Jagger lent his backing vocals to Carly Simon’s iconic hit “You’re So Vain.” This collaboration between two of the era’s most charismatic figures sparked rumors and speculation, further cementing Jagger’s reputation as a captivating and enigmatic presence in the music world. Simon later described the studio sessions as electrifying, fueled by a mutual attraction that transcended the music itself.

In 1978, Jagger ventured into the world of reggae, collaborating with Peter Tosh, a founding member of Bob Marley’s Wailers. Their joint rendition of “(You Gotta Walk and) Don’t Look Back” showcased Jagger’s versatility and willingness to embrace different musical styles. The duo performed the song on Saturday Night Live and during Tosh’s opening sets for the Stones’ 1978 U.S. tour.

Chart-Topping Hits and Solo Explorations

The 1980s saw Jagger further expand his collaborative horizons. In 1984, he joined forces with the Jacksons for “State of Shock,” a high-energy track that reached No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100. Originally intended for Michael Jackson’s Thriller album as a duet with Freddie Mercury, the song ultimately became a dynamic collaboration between Jagger and the Jackson family.

A year later, Jagger teamed up with another iconic figure, David Bowie, for a memorable rendition of “Dancing in the Street.” This duet, accompanied by a vibrant music video, became a chart-topping hit in the U.K. and reached No. 7 in the U.S. While the song’s production has drawn mixed reactions, the sheer charisma of Jagger and Bowie made it an unforgettable collaboration.

That same year, Jagger released his first solo album, She’s the Boss, showcasing his ability to assemble a stellar lineup of musicians. The album featured contributions from Pete Townshend, Jeff Beck, Carlos Alomar, Herbie Hancock, Nile Rodgers, Sly and Robbie, and others, demonstrating Jagger’s draw as a collaborative force.

Live Aid, Solo Albums, and Supporting Emerging Artists

While the Rolling Stones didn’t perform as a band at Live Aid in 1985, Jagger made a powerful appearance alongside Tina Turner. Their electrifying performances of “State of Shock” and “It’s Only Rock ‘n Roll (But I Like It)” highlighted the individual talents of the Stones’ members while contributing to the historic charity event.

Amidst ongoing tensions within the Stones, Jagger released his second solo album, Primitive Cool, in 1987. Continuing his trend of collaborating with top-tier musicians, the album featured contributions from Jeff Beck, Bill Evans, David Sanborn, Vernon Reid, and Dave Stewart, further solidifying Jagger’s reputation as a solo artist.

Jagger’s influence extended beyond established artists. In 1988, he played a pivotal role in the success of the rock band Living Colour. Impressed by their live performances and having worked with guitarist Vernon Reid on Primitive Cool, Jagger helped the band produce demos that led to a record deal with Epic. He also contributed to two songs on their debut album, Vivid: “Broken Hearts” and “Glamour Boys.”

Blues Explorations, Genre-Bending Collaborations, and Recent Projects

In the early 1990s, Jagger embarked on a blues project with the Red Devils, a Los Angeles-based band he met through producer Rick Rubin. While the intended blues album never saw an official release, the leaked recordings offer a glimpse into Jagger’s passion for the genre.

Jagger’s third solo album, Wandering Spirit (1993), featured a unique blend of veteran and contemporary artists. He brought together musicians like Billy Preston, Jim Keltner, and Benmont Tench alongside Lenny Kravitz and Flea, creating a diverse sonic landscape.

Goddess in the Doorway, Jagger’s most recent solo album (2001), continued his tradition of high-profile collaborations. The album boasted contributions from Rob Thomas, Pete Townshend, Joe Perry, Lenny Kravitz, and Bono, showcasing Jagger’s enduring appeal to fellow musicians.

In 2004, Jagger reunited with Dave Stewart to co-produce the soundtrack for the film Alfie. The album featured Sheryl Crow, Joss Stone, and Nadirah “Nadz” Seid, and one of its tracks, “Old Habits Die Hard,” won a Golden Globe Award for Best Original Song.

Subsequent collaborations included a memorable performance of “Stuck in a Moment You Can’t Get Out Of” with U2 in 2009, a duet on “Dead Flowers” with Jerry Lee Lewis in 2010, and contributions to Don Henley’s Cass County album in 2015, alongside Miranda Lambert.

Jagger continued to collaborate with blues legends, joining Buddy Guy on “You Did the Crime” for the album The Blues Is Alive and Well (2018). Most recently, he teamed up with Dave Grohl for the pandemic-inspired track “Easy Sleazy” (2021).

Conclusion

Mick Jagger’s musical journey transcends the legendary status he achieved with the Rolling Stones. His extensive collaborations reveal a restless creative spirit, constantly seeking new avenues for expression. From early solo ventures to partnerships with iconic figures and support for emerging artists, Jagger’s collaborative efforts have enriched the musical landscape and solidified his legacy as a true innovator. His willingness to embrace diverse genres and collaborate with artists across generations demonstrates a profound passion for music that extends far beyond the boundaries of any single band or project.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about Mick Jagger’s Collaborations

Q: What was Mick Jagger’s first solo single?

A: Jagger’s first solo single was “Memo From Turner,” released in 1970.

Q: Did Mick Jagger collaborate with Michael Jackson?

A: Yes, Jagger collaborated with the Jacksons, including Michael Jackson, on the song “State of Shock” in 1984.

Q: Has Mick Jagger won any awards for his solo work or collaborations?

A: Yes, the song “Old Habits Die Hard,” which Jagger co-wrote and performed for the film Alfie, won a Golden Globe Award for Best Original Song in 2004.

Q: What was Mick Jagger’s most recent solo album?

A: Jagger’s most recent solo album was Goddess in the Doorway, released in 2001.

Q: Who did Mick Jagger collaborate with during the COVID-19 pandemic?

A: Jagger collaborated with Dave Grohl on the song “Easy Sleazy,” released in 2021.

We encourage you to share your thoughts and questions about Mick Jagger’s collaborations in the comments below. What are your favorite collaborations? Which projects resonate with you the most? We’d love to hear from you!