We have a collection of 2 arrangements for The Rolling Stones - Sympathy for the Devil
What literary masterpiece inspired Mick Jagger's lyrics for this song? Learn!
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"Sympathy for the Devil" is one of The Rolling Stones' most iconic songs. Here are some interesting facts about the song:
Inspiration: The song was written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, and it was heavily influenced by Russian author Mikhail Bulgakov's novel "The Master and Margarita." The novel's portrayal of the devil in various guises is reflected in the song's lyrics.
Altamont Speedway: The Rolling Stones famously performed "Sympathy for the Devil" at the ill-fated Altamont Free Concert in 1969. The concert is known for the tragic killing of a fan by Hells Angels security, and the song's performance is seen in the documentary film "Gimme Shelter."
Marianne Faithfull's Backing Vocals: Marianne Faithfull, who was Jagger's girlfriend at the time, provided backing vocals for the song. Her haunting voice adds a unique dimension to the track.
African and Latin Influences: The song features a prominent conga and bongo percussion, which was inspired by Latin and African music. This infusion of different musical elements was a hallmark of the Rolling Stones' evolving sound during the late 1960s.
Controversial Lyrics: The song's lyrics were controversial at the time of its release due to their dark themes and references to violence and the devil. This led to bans on the song by some radio stations.
Evolution of the Song: The song went through several incarnations during its creation. Originally, it was more folk-oriented, but it evolved into the rock 'n' roll version we know today. The band experimented with different arrangements before settling on the final one.
Covers and Homages: "Sympathy for the Devil" has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including Guns N' Roses, Jane's Addiction, and Bryan Ferry. It has also been used in various films and TV shows.
Acclaimed Album: The song appears on The Rolling Stones' 1968 album "Beggars Banquet," which is widely regarded as one of their best albums. The album marked a return to their blues and rock roots and was a critical and commercial success.
Live Performances: The Rolling Stones have performed "Sympathy for the Devil" in many of their concerts. It often serves as a show-stopping number with elaborate stage setups and pyrotechnics.
Timeless Classic: "Sympathy for the Devil" remains a timeless classic in the rock genre and is considered one of the greatest rock songs ever recorded. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its enduring appeal.
These facts highlight the enduring significance of "Sympathy for the Devil" as a pivotal track in The Rolling Stones' discography and in the history of rock music.