The Original Plan For “Start Me Up” Was Reggae — And It Almost Stayed That Way

April 1, 2025

The sun was setting over Jamaica, casting a warm golden glow on the bustling streets of Kingston. It was 1981, and the air was filled with the sweet sounds of reggae, as Bob Marley’s voice floated out of every corner shop. For Mick Jagger and Keith Richards of The Rolling Stones, this vibrant island was the perfect place to find inspiration for their next hit. The duo had traveled to Jamaica with a vision: they wanted to create a reggae song that would capture the spirit of the island, a tune that would keep people dancing long into the night. They called it “Start Me Up.”

As they sat in a small, local studio, the original version of “Start Me Up” began to take shape. The upbeat rhythm changed their lives. The reggae beat felt like sunshine, each note a friendly wave from the island. However, despite their excitement, something didn’t feel quite right. As they played the song over and over, they realized that their reggae vision just wasn’t connecting the way they had hoped. It felt more like a gentle breeze, while they wanted the song to explode like fireworks. With each replay, they felt their dreams of producing a reggae anthem slipping away.

Frustrated but determined, Mick and Keith decided to switch gears. They took a step back, had some long conversations, and reimagined the song. Instead of sticking with the laid-back reggae vibe, they transformed “Start Me Up” into a driving rock anthem. The gritty guitar riffs and pounding drums were more in line with the Stones’ signature sound, giving the song the energy it needed. It was a bold move, but Mick and Keith were ready to take risks. They believed in their music and their vision, and the spark was reignited.

When “Start Me Up” was finally released in 1981, it became an instant hit. Fans across the globe were captivated by its rebellious spirit and unforgettable melody. The song climbed to the top of the charts and became one of The Rolling Stones’ most beloved tracks. But more than just a hit, it symbolized the band’s resilience and adaptability. They had faced the challenge of creating something new and had come out stronger on the other side. The song’s success opened up new doors for them, leading to a resurgence in their career and introducing their music to a new generation of fans.

Looking back, Mick and Keith saw the experience as a powerful lesson in the importance of staying true to their artistic instincts, even when faced with unexpected challenges. The journey from reggae to rock was more than just a musical evolution; it was a testament to their passion and determination. It reminded them—and their fans—that sometimes the path to greatness requires taking a leap of faith and embracing change. “Start Me Up” wasn’t just a song; it became an anthem of resilience, encouraging everyone to keep moving forward no matter what obstacles they faced.

Years later, as Mick Jagger looks out at the sea of fans during a concert, he feels the same thrill he had when they first created “Start Me Up.” He knows that every beat of the song carries the spirit of Jamaica, the willingness to adapt, and the power of music to inspire joy and connection. Every time the crowd sings along, he feels a wave of gratitude that they had the courage to take that leap. And in that moment, under the bright stage lights, he understands that true passion can turn obstacles into stepping stones, continuously igniting the fire within.