Why Start Me Up By The Rolling Stones Was Originally A Failed Reggae Experiment

March 20, 2025

In the early 1980s, the members of The Rolling Stones found themselves at a crossroads. They had conquered the rock ‘n’ roll world, but their recent albums had not captured the magic of their earlier work. The pressure to produce a hit was weighing heavily on Mick Jagger and Keith Richards. One day, in a creative frenzy, Mick came up with a catchy melody that seemed to dance off the walls of the studio. He envisioned it as a reggae song, influenced by the vibrant rhythms coming out of Jamaica. It was a bold idea, and they were excited to try something different, but they didn’t expect the challenges that lay ahead.

The band gathered for their session, electrified by the prospect of this new sound. They brought in a reggae beat, infused with a funky bassline and Jagger’s smooth vocals, channeling the spirit of Bob Marley. However, as they worked on “Start Me Up,” they quickly realized that their reggae experiment wasn’t hitting the mark. The song felt disconnected, as if the Stones were wearing clothes that just didn’t fit. The upbeat tone clashed with their rock essence, and after several frustrating days in the studio, the experiment was declared a failure. They shelved the track, leaving it to gather dust while they returned to more traditional rock sounds.

Despite this setback, the band refused to let discouragement overshadow their spirit. Determined to tap into their original energy, Keith Richards approached the song once more. He stripped it down, focusing on the guitar riff that had originally sparked their interest. With a fresh perspective and a refusal to abandon something they had poured their hearts into, the band started over. They reworked “Start Me Up,” turning it into the powerful rock anthem we know today. Their resilience transformed a failed reggae experiment into a celebration of passion and persistence, and the resulting song would skyrocket to success.

When “Start Me Up” was finally released in 1981, it became an instant classic. The infectious riff and catchy lyrics resonated with fans around the world, propelling the Stones back into the spotlight. It was more than just a song; it was a testament to their unwavering dedication to music and the creative process. The Rolling Stones proved that even the mightiest artists can stumble, but what truly matters is the courage to rise again. Mick and Keith’s ability to adapt and evolve not only reinvigorated their career but also inspired countless others to embrace their failures as stepping stones to success.

Looking back, the failed reggae experiment of “Start Me Up” became a pivotal moment in The Rolling Stones’ journey. It demonstrated that resilience is key in the world of music, where creativity often takes unexpected turns. In this case, what initially seemed like a mistake transformed into a defining hit, reminding them—and all of us—that every setback can lead to something extraordinary if we are willing to try again. Through dedication and a refusal to back down, they showed that the heart of a true artist lies in their relentless pursuit of passion, no matter how many times they may stumble along the way.