The Story Of Keith Richards’ Iconic Riff For “Start Me Up.”

December 2, 2024

The Story of Keith Richards’ Iconic Riff for Start Me Up”

In the pantheon of rock ‘n’ roll, few moments crystallize the genre’s essence quite like the opening riff of The Rolling Stones’ “Start Me Up.” From its first few notes, a raw energy surges that simultaneously beckons listeners to engage in a collective experience while boasting the undeniable swagger that is quintessentially Keith Richards. This riff doesn’t merely introduce a song; it encapsulates a cultural zeitgeist, a celebration of youthful defiance and the unyielding spirit of rock itself. To delve into the origins and construction of this iconic riff is to unravel the intricate tapestry of 1980s music, a time when the Stones reasserted themselves amid a changing musical landscape.

The genesis of “Start Me Up” can be traced to a time when the Rolling Stones were navigating the complexities of a post-disco world. Following the commercial highs of the mid-1970s, a period marked by their celebrated albums, the Stones found themselves at a crucial crossroads. Richards, the band’s legendary guitarist and creative mastermind, was experimenting with alternative tunings and rhythms during the late 1970s, a period of personal tumult and creative exploration. Rumored to have coined the riff while warming up for a session, Richards unwittingly laid the groundwork for what would become one of the most recognizable guitar openings in rock history.

What is particularly fascinating about the riff is its simplicity and inherent groove. The open-G tuning Richards favoredan alternative pitch that allows for rich harmonic overtonesinfuses the riff with a percussive punch that feels both immediate and timeless. While many may assume that a great riff necessitates complexity, “Start Me Up” is a masterclass in the power of economy. Its infectious repetition lures the listener into a rhythmic trance, functioning almost as a mantra that builds anticipation for Mick Jagger’s entrance. Here, Richards deftly balances the tension between straightforwardness and sophistication, a hallmark of his songwriting prowess.

Moreover, the socio-cultural backdrop of the early 1980s accentuates the significance of this riff. The Stones, having weathered the turbulent 1970s, found themselves in a new era marked by burgeoning genres like new wave and punk. “Start Me Up,” released in 1981 as the lead single from *Tattoo You*, emerged not just as a comeback for the band but as a signal flare to a generation craving authenticity amid the synthesized sounds dominating the airwaves. Its blend of rock and a touch of pop sensibilities resonated with listeners, solidifying its place on radio playlists and dance floors alike. The riff epitomizes rebellion, a sonic declaration that the spirit of rock was not only alive but thriving.

The recording process itself offers further insight into the song’s evolution. Initially conceived during the sessions for *Some Girls*, the riff was shelved, illustrating the Stones’ propensity to hold onto promising ideas until the ideal moment arises. When the band regrouped for *Tattoo You*, the riff was revisited and meticulously polished, showcasing how Richards’ initial spark had evolved into a fully realized composition. Layered guitar tracks and the precision of Charlie Watts’ drumming contribute to an arrangement very much in line with the Stones’ philosophy: to let the song breathe, to allow the groove to lead the performance.

“Start Me Up” became not merely a hit; it became an anthem, encapsulating a moment in rock history where the old guard embraced reinvention without losing their core identity. It is a tribute to Richards’ enduring influence and his ability to distill complex emotions into deceptively simple musical phrases. In doing so, he offers a blueprint for musiciansa reminder that the most powerful riffs may originate from the unassuming realms of experimentation and spontaneity. As the riff continues to echo through time, it serves as a reminder of the audacious spirit of rock ‘n’ roll, perpetually urging us to start anew, to feel alive, and to celebrate the music that resonates within us all.