About the song
“Angie” by The Rolling Stones is a classic rock ballad that remains one of the band’s most enduring and emotionally powerful songs. Released on August 20, 1973, as the lead single from their album “Goats Head Soup”, the track showcases a softer, more introspective side of the Rolling Stones, contrasting with their typical high-energy rock persona.
Written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, “Angie” is a poignant reflection on the complexities of love and loss. The song features a prominent piano melody, played by Nicky Hopkins, and is underscored by Jagger’s heartfelt vocal delivery. Its lyrical content revolves around a narrative of heartbreak and separation, with Jagger singing about a past relationship with a deep sense of melancholy and resignation. The song’s chorus, with the lines “Angie, Angie, when will those clouds all disappear?” epitomizes the emotional core of the track, capturing a universal sense of longing and reflection.
“Angie” has been widely interpreted as a song about a romantic relationship that has ended, and it resonates deeply with its audience due to its raw emotional honesty. The song’s stripped-down arrangement, focusing on piano and strings, complements its reflective lyrics and adds to its melancholic atmosphere. While some have speculated that the song may have been inspired by Jagger’s personal life, the general consensus is that it represents a more universal theme of dealing with the end of a meaningful relationship.
From a social and cultural perspective, “Angie” holds a significant place in rock music history. Released during a period of transition for the Rolling Stones, the song marked a departure from their more rebellious, rock-and-roll image and highlighted their versatility as musicians. The track’s success was notable, reaching number one on the charts in multiple countries, and it solidified the band’s ability to craft emotionally resonant music. Its impact is seen not only in its commercial success but also in its enduring popularity, often cited as one of the greatest ballads in rock music.
The song’s legacy extends beyond its initial release, influencing countless artists and being frequently covered by various musicians over the decades. “Angie” remains a testament to the Rolling Stones’ ability to blend lyrical depth with musical sophistication, and it continues to be a beloved classic in their extensive catalog.
In summary, “Angie” by The Rolling Stones is a timeless ballad that encapsulates themes of love, loss, and reflection. Its release in 1973 as part of the album “Goats Head Soup” marked a significant moment in the band’s career, showcasing their ability to produce emotionally powerful and introspective music. The song’s enduring appeal and influence underscore its importance in the history of rock music.
Video
Lyrics
Angie, AngieWhen will those clouds all disappear?Angie, AngieWhere will it lead us from here?With no lovin’ in our soulsAnd no money in our coatsYou can’t say we’re satisfiedAngie, AngieYou can’t say we never triedAngie, you’re beautiful, yeahBut ain’t it time we said goodbye?Angie, I still love youRemember all those nights we cried?All the dreams were held so closeSeemed to all go up in smokeLet me whisper in your earAngie, AngieWhere will it lead us from hereOh, Angie, don’t you weepOh, your kisses still taste sweetI hate that sadness in your eyesBut Angie, AngieAin’t it time we said goodbye? YeahWith no lovin’ in our soulsAnd no money in our coatsYou can’t say we’re satisfiedAngie, I still love you, babyEverywhere I look, I see your eyesThere ain’t a woman that comes close to youCome on, baby, dry your eyesAngie, AngieAin’t it good to be alive?Angie, AngieThey can’t say we never tried