Why Thru And Thru By The Rolling Stones Became An Unexpected Favorite Thanks To The Sopranos

March 21, 2025

In the heart of New Jersey, where sprawling neighborhoods met the grit of city life, “Thru and Thru” by The Rolling Stones was just another song lost in the shuffle of time. Recorded in 1994 for their album “Voodoo Lounge,” it didn’t soar to the top of the charts or generate overwhelming buzz like some of their earlier hits. Yet, as the iconic television series “The Sopranos” began to capture the imagination of millions, everything changed for this underappreciated gem. The show’s creator, David Chase, had an ear for music that perfectly complemented his storytelling, and “Thru and Thru” became a pivotal piece that brought new life to the song and the band.

The episode titled “Isabella” in Season 1 was where it all came together. Tony Soprano, the show’s conflicted mob boss played by James Gandolfini, finds himself in a moment of deep reflection while the haunting melody of “Thru and Thru” plays in the background. As he grapples with his identity and the weight of his choices, the song’s sweeping imagery and melancholy lyrics resonate deeply. Many who watched felt a connection, as if the music echoed their own struggles and dreams. Suddenly, what was once a background tune became a centerpiece of emotion, transforming it into a poignant anthem for those wrestling with their own lives.

As the weeks went on, more and more viewers began to seek out the song, drawn in by the raw honesty of its lyrics and the soulful guitar riffs. The Rolling Stones, despite being a legendary band, found themselves rejuvenated by a new generation of listeners who had discovered “Thru and Thru” through the lens of a gritty mob drama. This unexpected revival highlighted the powerful link between visual storytelling and music, revealing how one art form could breathe new life into another. The Stones, dedicated musicians who had weathered the storm of changing musical landscapes for decades, felt invigorated. Fans were attending concerts with renewed enthusiasm, singing along to this song that had once been so overlooked.

Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, the band’s driving forces, took notice of this resurgence. They found themselves reflecting on the journey of their music. They had created countless songs over the years, some that climbed the charts and others that faded away. Yet, “Thru and Thru” had found a second chance, revealing the resilience of music itself. No matter how many years passed, a song could still connect with people, spark a new conversation, and find a home in their hearts. It was a testament to their love for creating art, igniting a passion that had never waned even after many decades in the industry.

The Stones’ experience with “Thru and Thru” taught them a valuable lesson: every piece of music had the potential to touch lives, regardless of when it was released. They continued to tour and create new music, emboldened by the knowledge that their legacy was still very much alive. The unexpected rise of “Thru and Thru” reminded them that their music was not just a product of the past, but a living thing capable of growing and evolving alongside those who listened. This was the power of art—a reminder that resilience is not just about enduring but also about rediscovery and the strength to embrace new paths.

In the end, “Thru and Thru” became more than just a song; it was a symbol of hope and a lesson in perseverance. For the fans, it was a piece of their lives woven into the fabric of a dramatic story. For The Rolling Stones, it was a reminder that they still had the power to impact the world, one listener at a time. And so, in the end, they knew that no matter how old they grew, their music would continue to find its way into the hearts of those who needed it most, proving that the beauty of art lies in its ability to connect us all.