The Rolling Stones’ Fascination With Voodoo And How It Bled Into Their Music

April 3, 2025

The sun was beginning to set over the vibrant streets of New Orleans, casting an orange glow that danced along the colorful buildings. It was the late 1960s, and a wild energy filled the air. The Rolling Stones, a band that had taken the world by storm, found themselves in this enchanting city, drawn not just by its music but by its deep-rooted connection to voodoo. As they wandered through the bustling markets and dark alleyways, whispers of ancient spirits and rhythm echoed all around them. This was a place where magic seemed real, and the band couldn’t help but feel its allure.

Mick Jagger, the charismatic frontman, was particularly captivated. He couldn’t shake the feeling that voodoo was not just some mysterious practice; it was a way of life. The band took the time to learn about the rituals, the colorful icons, and the stories of the spirits who danced in the hearts of the locals. They began to see how voodoo wasn’t just about magic; it was about resilience, community, and a deep connection to the past. Inspired by this spirit world, they felt a new sense of creative energy surging through their music.

That fascination with voodoo soon found its way into their songs. One of the most notable creations was “Sympathy for the Devil,” a track that explored dark themes but did it with a captivating groove that made people want to dance. The lyrics were filled with imagery that reflected the mystical and sometimes ominous nature of the voodoo beliefs they had encountered. The Rolling Stones transformed their experiences into a sound that was raw and powerful, combining rock with blues and a hint of the supernatural. Fans were drawn in, mesmerized by the beat and the profound messages that lay within.

However, not everyone appreciated this new direction. Critics were vocal about their concerns; they thought the band was dabbling in forces they didn’t understand. But Mick and the boys stood firm. They felt a responsibility to share the magic they had uncovered. Music had always been about pushing boundaries and expressing the inexpressible, and this was just another chapter in their journey. Instead of retreating, they embraced the criticism, using it as fuel to dive even deeper into the mystical sounds that were beginning to define them.

Their resilience paid off in unimaginable ways. As the years passed, the connection between The Rolling Stones and the voodoo spirit became a defining element of their identity. Their music inspired countless artists and left an indelible mark on the rock genre. The band found themselves not just as entertainers but as storytellers, weaving tales of life, death, love, and magic through their lyrics and melodies. The voodoo influence turned out to be a blessing, enriching their sound and opening up conversations about life’s mysteries.

Looking back, the band members understood that their adventure in New Orleans was more than just a visit; it was a pivotal moment that unleashed their creativity and passion for music. The voodoo culture taught them about strength, perseverance, and the importance of staying connected to their roots. Each note they played infused with the spirit of the city, resonated with fans from all walks of life. The Rolling Stones had not just found a new sound; they had discovered a piece of themselves, and in doing so, they reminded the world that music could be a powerful force for connection and understanding.