Why Ride ‘Em On Down By The Rolling Stones Was One Of Their Best Late-Career Blues Covers

March 21, 2025

In the late summer of 2016, the air was charged with a sense of nostalgia. The Rolling Stones, a band that had defined rock music for over five decades, released “Blue & Lonesome,” an album filled with deep, soulful blues covers. Among these, “Ride ‘Em On Down,” originally written by the legendary bluesman Jimmy Reed, stood out. It wasn’t just a song; it was a powerful reminder of the band’s roots, their resilience, and their everlasting love for music. For Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, it felt like jumping back in time while riding the wave of their storied career, and the moment was electrifying.

Listening to “Ride ‘Em On Down,” you could sense the passion in Jagger’s voice as he sang about longing and heartache. It was a raw and authentic expression, infused with a youthful energy that seemed to contradict their ages. This song wasn’t just another track; it captured the spirit of the blues, a genre that had inspired the Stones since their very first days in the music scene. Jagger and Richards, both in their seventies, showcased their resilience by pouring their hearts into this song, reminding fans old and new of their undying connection to the roots of rock and roll.

The recording sessions for “Blue & Lonesome” were like a reunion for the band, a celebration of their enduring friendship and shared love for music. As they gathered in a small studio in Los Angeles, surrounded by vintage instruments and amps, the atmosphere was thick with camaraderie. They laughed, reminisced about their early days, and poured themselves into each track. “Ride ‘Em On Down” became a standout, not only because of its catchy beat but due to the emotional weight it carried. It was as if all the years of trials and triumphs rolled into that one song, echoing their journey through the highs and lows of life.

As the track climbed the charts, it reignited the fire in their fans’ hearts. Listening to it was like watching an old friend rediscover their passion. The youthful spirit of the song communicated that age didn’t define them; rather, it was their spirit, their love for blues, that kept the music alive. For many fans, hearing “Ride ‘Em On Down” was uplifting, a reminder that no matter how hard life gets, you can always find joy in the things you love most. The Rolling Stones had faced their share of challenges over the years, from lineup changes to personal struggles, but they always returned to music, their greatest love.

Ultimately, “Ride ‘Em On Down” became a symbol of resilience. It told listeners that life was a ride full of ups and downs, but it was worth embracing every moment. For Jagger and Richards, it wasn’t just about reliving the past; it was about proving that passion knows no age limit. The song inspired many, showing that the journey through life is not just about the destination but also about enjoying the ride, sharing experiences, and staying true to oneself. As the echoes of the chorus faded, the spirit of the blues remained, reminding fans that as long as there is music in the world, there will always be hope and joy to hold onto.