Mick Jagger on Hackney Diamonds, streaming and why he doesn’t want the Rolling Stones to be retro

Summary

In this insightful interview, Mick Jagger reflects on the evolution of music formats, from vinyl to streaming, and the accessibility it provides across generations. He discusses the importance of embracing modern technologies while maintaining the heart of the Rolling Stones’ sound. Jagger also highlights the band’s eclectic musical influences, blending rock with folk, blues, and even African music. Rejecting nostalgia, he emphasizes the need for artists to adapt to the changing times. With his openness to new sounds and methods, Jagger confirms that the Rolling Stones will continue creating music for years to come.

Takeaways

• 😀 Mick Jagger reflects on how music formats have evolved over time, from vinyl to cassettes, eight-tracks, and streaming.
• 😀 Streaming allows people of all generations to access music from any period, making previously rare records more accessible.
• 😀 In the past, scarcity made music more special, and owning rare records created a sense of identity among music lovers.
• 😀 Mick Jagger contrasts his approach to music with other artists of his generation who may be stuck in nostalgia or resistant to change.
• 😀 While some musicians avoid modern platforms like Spotify, Mick embraces them and sees the value in making his music widely available.
• 😀 Mick highlights the importance of keeping the sound of new Rolling Stones music current while still staying true to the band's essence.
• 😀 Despite being considered the greatest rock-and-roll band, Mick argues that the Rolling Stones have never been just a rock-and-roll band, as they explore a variety of music genres.
• 😀 Mick and Keith Richards have drawn influence from diverse music styles, including Irish folk music and the Incredible String Band.
• 😀 Mick enjoys exploring different genres of music, including techno, African music, and folk, showing his broad musical tastes.
• 😀 The Rolling Stones are able to play any genre of music, from folk to country to dance music, demonstrating their musical versatility.
• 😀 Mick believes that music should evolve and adapt to modern times, and that the band's new album reflects both the heart of the Stones and a contemporary sound.

Q & A

How has the accessibility of music changed over time, according to Mick Jagger?

Mick Jagger reflects on how the accessibility of music has evolved from hard-to-get vinyl records and cassettes to the digital age of streaming. In the past, obtaining rare records was a challenge, but now, with streaming, people can access music from all eras easily.

What role does nostalgia play in the music industry, based on Mick's observations?

Mick notes that many musicians from his generation get stuck in nostalgia, often saying that music was better in the past and resisting the new digital formats like streaming. He contrasts this with his own approach, where he embraces the current era of music while respecting its history.

Why does Mick Jagger believe streaming is important despite its criticisms?

Mick sees streaming as a positive force because it gives everyone, regardless of age or location, access to music from all periods. He also acknowledges that it makes discovering rare and interesting music easier, even if it might reduce the sense of rarity.

What does Mick Jagger say about the Rolling Stones' approach to their music?

Mick explains that the Rolling Stones never want to be confined to a retro label. While they respect their roots, they aim to create music that feels modern and true to the current sound, which is why their newer records sound fresh and contemporary.

How did Mick Jagger and Keith Richards' musical interests shape their style?

Mick and Keith were influenced by a wide range of music, including folk, blues, and country. They were especially into rare and niche folk bands like the Incredible String Band, and they also explored Irish and African music. These influences contribute to the Stones' eclectic musical style.

What is Mick Jagger's stance on genres and musical boundaries?

Mick emphasizes that the Rolling Stones are not just a rock and roll band. They are open to exploring various genres like folk, country, blues, dance music, and even techno. This willingness to experiment is a key part of their identity as musicians.

How does Mick Jagger view the sound of modern music compared to older recordings?

Mick acknowledges that modern recordings, including the Rolling Stones' recent work, have much clearer and more refined sound quality compared to older records. He emphasizes that while their music maintains the same heart, the clarity and fidelity of newer recordings are much improved.

What is Mick Jagger's perspective on the future of the Rolling Stones?

Mick is optimistic about the future of the Rolling Stones, confirming that the band is working on new material and planning to continue producing music. He hints at their upcoming projects, indicating that the Rolling Stones are far from being done.

Why does Mick Jagger appreciate the modern digital era despite its flaws?

Mick appreciates the modern digital era because it allows musicians to share their music globally and access a vast range of influences from various cultures. Despite criticisms of streaming, he values the ability to discover rare music that would have been difficult to find in the past.

What does Mick Jagger mean by the Rolling Stones being able to 'play anything'?

Mick means that the Rolling Stones have the musical flexibility to explore a variety of genres and styles. Whether it's rock, folk, Irish, or African music, they are capable of playing and incorporating diverse musical influences into their work.