The Making Of The Rolling Stones’ Chart-Topping Hit “Start Me Up.”

December 3, 2024

The Making of The Rolling Stones’ Chart-Topping Hit Start Me Up”

When The Rolling Stones released “Start Me Up” in 1981, the song heralded not merely the return of one of rock’s most enduring bands, but also a shift in the sonic landscape of popular music. Following a half-decade of relative silence after the release of *Some Girls* in 1978, the Stones sought to re-establish their authority in an era punctuated by new wave and punk influences. “Start Me Up,” the lead single from their album *Tattoo You*, emerged as a quintessential Stones anthem, brimming with the swagger and irreverence that defined their legacy. However, the song’s inception was as much a product of experimentation and serendipity as it was of calculated artistry.

The genesis of “Start Me Up” can be traced back to a series of jam sessions in the late 1970s, where Keith Richards was literally tinkering with guitar riffs that would eventually shape the song’s very backbone. Initially conceived as a reggae-infused track titled Never Stop,” the arrangement needed a reconstruction. Richards, with his proclivity for blues-inflected riffs, discovered a hook so compelling that it transcended its origins. The catchy guitar riff, marked by a rhythmic urgency and a twinkling, almost mischievous quality, was eventually paired with Mick Jagger’s evocative lyricsdrawing on themes of longing and desire, thus illustrating the band’s ability to evolve while remaining grounded in their roots.

In a genre often defined by formulaic approaches, the production of “Start Me Up” stands out as a particularly intriguing case study in the collaborative efforts of its creators. Working with producer Chris Kimsey, the Stones harnessed the capabilities of their recording technology to amplify the raw energy of their sound. The distinctive layering of Richards’ guitar partseach imbued with a sense of spontaneityalongside Charlie Watts’ drumming, creates a rich tapestry that gives the track its punch. The unmistakable backbeat, synonymous with Stones hits, is elevated here through a mix that emphasizes the band’s signature sound while also catering to the burgeoning MTV era.

Lyrically, “Start Me Up” is a manifestation of Jagger’s genius in crafting euphemistic narratives that resonate on multiple levels. The spirited repetition of the titular phrase evokes a sense of urgency and anticipation, resonating with anyone who has ever felt the exhilarating rush of infatuation. Yet, the song also plays with an underlying sense of ambivalence, reflecting the complexities of desire and the obscured lines between longing and the inevitable letdownan emotional duality that Jagger has consistently explored throughout his career. The lyrics pulse with both exuberance and vulnerability, presenting a balanced dichotomy that captivates listeners, drawing them into the song’s intoxicating groove.

The commercial impact of “Start Me Up” cannot be overstated. Upon its release, the single soared to the top of charts worldwide, reinvigorating the band’s reputation amid a changing musical climate. More than just a return to form, “Start Me Up” set the stage for the Stones’ ongoing relevance. Its infectious chorus and vibrant instrumentation became anthemic, helping to bridge the generational divide within the rock genre. The track’s later association with promotional campaigns, particularly for Microsoft Windows, revitalized its status in a new context, proving that the Stones’ music possesses a timeless quality capable of transcending the eras.

In retrospect, “Start Me Up” stands as a testament to The Rolling Stones’ unyielding prowess and adaptability. It encapsulates a moment in history when a storied band successfully navigated the shifting tides of popular music, emerging with a sonic artifact that pays homage to its past while boldly embracing the present. The song remains not just a staple of classic rock radio but a captivating snippet of creativity, demonstrating that sometimes, the most profound hits arise from a confluence of experimentation, inspiration, and a touch of sheer audacity. As the Stones continue to tour and create decades later, “Start Me Up” serves as a vibrant reminder of their enduring legacy, echoing the pulse of rock ’n’ roll itself.