Why Sympathy For The Devil By The Rolling Stones Sparked Fears Of Satanic Influences

March 20, 2025

It was the late 1960s, a time when music was more than just entertainment; it was a cultural revolution. The Rolling Stones, one of the most popular bands of the era, were at the heart of this change. Their song “Sympathy for the Devil,” released in 1968, was unlike anything anyone had ever heard. The song told the story of the devil himself, weaving through history and revealing the darker sides of human nature. But with its catchy melody and provocative lyrics, it ignited a firestorm of controversy, leaving fans enthralled and critics alarmed.

As the song gained popularity, many people began to voice their concerns. Some believed that the Stones were promoting satanic influences, as if holding a mirror to the fears that lurked in the shadows of society. Parents worried about their children listening to music that spoke of the devil, and religious leaders warned against the moral decay that came from embracing such songs. The fear stretched beyond just the music, as it stirred deep-rooted anxieties about the counterculture movement sweeping through the nation. The notion that rock music could be tied to dark forces created an atmosphere of suspicion and claim that the devil was infiltrating the hearts of the youth.

Mick Jagger, the lead singer of the band, felt the pressure mounting. The song’s provocative nature was intentional; it was an exploration of the duality of man, reflecting the struggles of good and evil, love and hate. Jagger understood that art often mirrored the complexities of life and believed in the power of music to provoke thought and inspire change. Rather than shy away from the criticisms, he embraced them. He saw “Sympathy for the Devil” not as a glorification of evil, but as a reflection on humanity’s darker impulses. In interviews, he expressed that the song was a way to confront fear rather than submit to it.

The backlash didn’t just affect the band’s image; it also shaped their music. Instead of retreating from the storm, the Rolling Stones used the controversy to fuel their creativity. They wrote more songs that challenged societal norms, pushing the boundaries of rock music. The boldness of “Sympathy for the Devil” became a rallying cry for artists everywhere who sought to express their truths. The band learned to stand resilient in the face of opposition, recognizing that true art is about embracing all aspects of life, even the uncomfortable ones.

As time went on, “Sympathy for the Devil” became a classic, a testament to the power of music to provoke emotion and ignite conversations. It was included in countless lists of the greatest songs ever, inspiring generations of musicians and listeners alike. The Rolling Stones, once at the center of controversy, transformed their struggles into a legacy that celebrated artistic freedom and the importance of resilience. Their journey served as a reminder that sometimes, facing the fiercest criticisms can lead to the most profound expressions of creativity.

Today, when one listens to “Sympathy for the Devil,” it’s hard not to feel the energy that sparked a cultural movement. It tells us that we can confront our fears, explore our complexities, and emerge stronger. Mick Jagger and the Rolling Stones showed us that embracing our darker sides could lead to greater understanding, not just as artists, but as human beings navigating the beautiful chaos of life. Their story is one of passion and perseverance, showing us all that music can be a powerful force for connection and change.