About the song Sympathy for the Devil
Released in 1968 on Beggars Banquet, “Sympathy for the Devil” is an iconic and controversial song by The Rolling Stones. Its exploration of the devil’s perspective and historical events sparked debate but ultimately cemented its place as one of the band’s greatest and most enduring works.
Music:
- Hypnotic Rhythm:Â The song is built around a driving, hypnotic rhythm driven by Charlie Watts’s drumming and Bill Wyman’s bass. This rhythmic foundation creates a sense of urgency and propels the song forward.
- Mellow Groove:Â The verses feature a mellow groove, accentuated by Keith Richards’s signature guitar work. This contrast in tempo and mood adds to the song’s overall complexity and intrigue.
- Haunting Vocals:Â Mick Jagger’s vocals are both powerful and seductive, perfectly capturing the song’s ambiguity and moral complexity. His ability to embody the devil’s perspective is chilling and captivating.
Lyrics:
- Provocative Perspective:Â The song is told from the perspective of the devil, who narrates his involvement in major historical events, from the crucifixion of Christ to the Vietnam War. This provocative approach sparked controversy upon its release, but it also sparked debate and discussion about good and evil.
- Ambiguity and Openness to Interpretation:Â The lyrics are deliberately ambiguous, leaving much open to interpretation. This allows listeners to draw their own conclusions about the song’s message and meaning.
- Vivid Imagery:Â The lyrics are filled with vivid imagery and metaphors, painting a powerful picture of the devil’s presence throughout history. Lines like “I was there when Jesus Christ/Had his moment of doubt and pain” and “I saw a red door and I want it painted black” are memorable and thought-provoking.
Cultural Significance:
- Enduring Legacy:Â “Sympathy for the Devil” has become a rock and roll classic, covered by numerous artists and featured in countless films and television shows. Its iconic status is further solidified by its inclusion in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s 500 Songs that Shaped Rock and Roll.
- Cultural Touchstone:Â The song’s influence extends beyond music. Its themes of good and evil, morality, and historical events have been explored and discussed in various forms of art and literature.
- Controversial and Provocative:Â The song’s provocative perspective and themes have sparked debate and controversy since its release. This controversy has only added to its mystique and cultural significance.
Further Exploration:
- Live Performances:Â The Rolling Stones have performed “Sympathy for the Devil” countless times in concert. Witnessing the song live adds a new dimension to its energy and intensity.
- Cover Versions:Â Numerous artists have covered “Sympathy for the Devil,” each offering their own unique interpretation. Some notable covers include versions by Guns N’ Roses, Annie Lennox, and Marilyn Manson.
- Official Music Video:Â The band released a promotional film for the song, featuring the band performing in a variety of settings, including a church and a deserted city street. The video adds a visual dimension to the song’s themes and imagery.
“Sympathy for the Devil” is more than just a song; it’s a cultural phenomenon. Its exploration of complex themes, captivating music, and enduring legacy have solidified its place as one of the greatest rock songs ever written. The song continues to spark debate and intrigue, ensuring its relevance for generations to come.
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Video Sympathy for the Devil
Sympathy for the Devil Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
Please allow me to introduce myselfI’m a man of wealth and tasteI’ve been around for a long, long yearsStole million man’s soul an faithAnd I was ’round when Jesus ChristHad his moment of doubt and painMade damn sure that PilateWashed his hands and sealed his fatePleased to meet youHope you guess my nameBut what’s puzzling youIs the nature of my gameStuck around St. PetersburgWhen I saw it was a time for a changeKilled Tsar and his ministersAnastasia screamed in vainI rode a tankHeld a general’s rankWhen the blitzkrieg ragedAnd the bodies stankPleased to meet youHope you guess my name, oh yeahAh, what’s puzzling youIs the nature of my game, oh yeahI watched with gleeWhile your kings and queensFought for ten decadesFor the gods they madeI shouted outWho killed the Kennedys?When after allIt was you and meLet me please introduce myselfI’m a man of wealth and tasteAnd I laid traps for troubadoursWho get killed before they reached BombayPleased to meet youHope you guessed my name, oh yeahBut what’s puzzling youIs the nature of my game, oh yeah, get down, babyPleased to meet youHope you guessed my name, oh yeahBut what’s confusing youIs just the nature of my gameJust as every cop is a criminalAnd all the sinners saintsAs heads is tailsJust call me Lucifer‘Cause I’m in need of some restraintSo if you meet meHave some courtesyHave some sympathy, and some tasteUse all your well-learned politnesseOr I’ll lay your soul to waste, mm yeahPleased to meet youHope you guessed my name, mm yeahBut what’s puzzling youIs the nature of my game, mm mean it, get downWoo, whoOh yeah, get on downOh yeahAah yeahTell me baby, what’s my name?Tell me honey, can ya guess my name?Tell me baby, what’s my name?I tell you one time, you’re to blameWhat’s my nameTell me, baby, what’s my name?Tell me, sweetie, what’s my name?