About the song
“Sympathy for the Devil” by The Rolling Stones is a seminal track that continues to captivate listeners with its provocative lyrics and dynamic sound. Released in 1968, this song is one of the standout tracks from the album “Beggars Banquet”, which marked a significant evolution in the band’s musical style.
The song’s release was a defining moment for The Rolling Stones, showcasing their ability to blend rock with elements of blues and Latin rhythms. “Sympathy for the Devil” features a distinctive and infectious rhythm, driven by a pulsating beat and a hypnotic percussion section, which includes congas played by the band’s own drummer, Charlie Watts. The song’s introduction with a samba-like beat and Mick Jagger’s charismatic vocal performance create an atmosphere of intrigue and tension.
The meaning behind “Sympathy for the Devil” is both complex and controversial. The lyrics, written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, are delivered from the perspective of the Devil himself. The song explores themes of human evil and moral ambiguity, referencing historical atrocities and the darker aspects of human nature. Jagger’s portrayal of the Devil is not meant to be taken literally but rather as a commentary on the capacity for cruelty and malevolence that exists within all people. The chorus, with its refrain of “Pleased to meet you, hope you guess my name,” underscores the idea of evil as an ever-present and insidious force.
“Sympathy for the Devil” had a profound social impact upon its release. Its controversial subject matter and unconventional approach challenged listeners and critics alike, pushing the boundaries of what was considered acceptable in popular music at the time. The song became a cultural touchstone, reflecting the turbulent social and political climate of the late 1960s. Its provocative nature and the thematic exploration of evil resonated with a generation grappling with questions of morality and justice.
The song’s influence extends beyond its initial release, having been covered by numerous artists and featured in various films and television shows. Its powerful rhythm and compelling narrative have ensured its place as a cornerstone of rock music, continuing to inspire and provoke thought among new generations of listeners. The enduring legacy of “Sympathy for the Devil” lies in its ability to challenge conventions and stimulate discussion, making it a landmark in The Rolling Stones‘ storied career and a classic in the rock genre.
In summary, “Sympathy for the Devil” by The Rolling Stones, released in 1968 on the album “Beggars Banquet”, remains a provocative and influential piece of music. Its exploration of dark themes through a compelling rock rhythm and insightful lyrics ensures its lasting impact and relevance in both musical history and popular culture.
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Lyrics
Please allow me to introduce myselfI’m a man of wealth and tasteI’ve been around for a long, long yearsStole million man’s soul an faithAnd I was ’round when Jesus ChristHad his moment of doubt and painMade damn sure that PilateWashed his hands and sealed his fatePleased to meet youHope you guess my nameBut what’s puzzling youIs the nature of my gameStuck around St. PetersburgWhen I saw it was a time for a changeKilled Tsar and his ministersAnastasia screamed in vainI rode a tankHeld a general’s rankWhen the blitzkrieg ragedAnd the bodies stankPleased to meet youHope you guess my name, oh yeahAh, what’s puzzling youIs the nature of my game, oh yeahI watched with gleeWhile your kings and queensFought for ten decadesFor the gods they madeI shouted outWho killed the Kennedys?When after allIt was you and meLet me please introduce myselfI’m a man of wealth and tasteAnd I laid traps for troubadoursWho get killed before they reached BombayPleased to meet youHope you guessed my name, oh yeahBut what’s puzzling youIs the nature of my game, oh yeah, get down, babyPleased to meet youHope you guessed my name, oh yeahBut what’s confusing youIs just the nature of my gameJust as every cop is a criminalAnd all the sinners saintsAs heads is tailsJust call me Lucifer‘Cause I’m in need of some restraintSo if you meet meHave some courtesyHave some sympathy, and some tasteUse all your well-learned politnesseOr I’ll lay your soul to waste, mm yeahPleased to meet youHope you guessed my name, mm yeahBut what’s puzzling youIs the nature of my game, mm mean it, get downWoo, whoOh yeah, get on downOh yeahAah yeahTell me baby, what’s my name?Tell me honey, can ya guess my name?Tell me baby, what’s my name?I tell you one time, you’re to blameWhat’s my nameTell me, baby, what’s my name?Tell me, sweetie, what’s my name?