A History of Rock Music in 500 Songs: Episode Summary

Episode: Song 176: “Sympathy for the Devil” by the Rolling Stones, Part 2: Traps for Troubadours
Host: Andrew Hickey
Release Date: August 19, 2024

1. Introduction and Content Warnings

Andrew Hickey opens the episode with a cautionary note, indicating a shift towards darker themes in upcoming episodes. He addresses sensitive topics such as governmental and societal homophobia, the use of the term "queer," sexual exploitation of children, drug use, domestic abuse, mental illness, and suicide attempts. Hickey emphasizes the necessity of discussing these aspects to provide a comprehensive understanding of the Rolling Stones' impact on culture and music.

Andrew Hickey [00:03]: "A few notes before we begin... these content warnings will also get longer for a little while."

2. Literary Interlude: Oscar Wilde's Influence

The podcast strategically intersperses lines from Oscar Wilde's play, The Importance of Being Earnest, to draw parallels between Wilde's struggles and the challenges faced by rock musicians like the Rolling Stones. This literary reference sets a contemplative tone, highlighting themes of identity and societal pressure.

Oscar Wilde [02:41]: "And where did the charitable gentleman who..."

Andrew Hickey [02:51]: "In a handbag... An ordinary handbag, in fact."

3. The Downfall of Oscar Wilde: A Parallel Narrative

Andrew Hickey delves into the tragic story of Oscar Wilde, drawing parallels to the Rolling Stones' experiences. He recounts Wilde's imprisonment due to homosexual relationships and the societal backlash he endured, setting a historical context for understanding the pressures faced by rock stars in the 1960s.

Andrew Hickey [03:21]: "Wilde fell for it... British libel laws have always been particularly harsh..."

4. The Rolling Stones in 1966: Highs and Lows

The episode transitions to the Rolling Stones' activities in 1966, highlighting significant events such as their last tour with Brian Jones and their interactions with contemporaries like the Beatles and Bob Dylan. Hickey touches upon the band's increasing popularity, management changes, and personal dynamics.

Andrew Hickey [05:00]: "The Rolling Stones' 1966 tour of the US would turn out to be their last with Brian Jones..."

5. Personal Relationships and Internal Struggles

Hickey explores the tumultuous personal lives of the band members, focusing on Brian Jones' relationship with Anita Pallenberg and Mick Jagger's involvement with Marianne Faithfull. He discusses the impact of these relationships on the band's cohesion and individual well-being.

Keith Richards [08:00]: "I would hear the thumping some nights and Brian would come out with a black eye."

6. Musical Endeavors and Production Challenges

The podcast addresses the Rolling Stones' creative processes, including the production of hit singles like "Satisfaction" and "Ruby Tuesday." Hickey critiques the band's production choices, particularly the decision to overdub horns separately, leading to a muddy mix that the members later regretted.

Andrew Hickey [35:06]: "That's the sound of two police truncheons during the session to record Jagger's vocals."

7. Controversies and Public Image

Andrew Hickey delves into the controversies that plagued the Rolling Stones, including their problematic appearances on television shows like the Ed Sullivan Show and the London Palladium. He narrates incidents involving drug allegations and the band's rebellious stance against conforming to mainstream entertainment norms.

Andrew Hickey [41:00]: "Jagger was livid... the group's friend Robert Fraser put it, the Oscar Wilde mistake."

8. Tragedy and Its Aftermath

The episode recounts the tragic car crash that resulted in the death of Tara Brown, a close associate of the band. Hickey connects this event to subsequent personal losses, including Chrissie Shrimpton's suicide attempt and the deterioration of Mick Jagger's relationship with her.

Andrew Hickey [30:42]: "He blew his mind out in a car... A crowd of people stood in the stairs..."

9. Legacy and Reflections

Andrew Hickey concludes by reflecting on the Rolling Stones' legacy amidst personal and professional turmoil. He emphasizes the band's influence on rock music and the enduring relevance of their music, despite the controversies and tragedies that marked their journey.

Andrew Hickey [33:56]: "That was the first song Jagger ever wrote on his own, though it was credited to Jagger and Richards."

10. Notable Quotes and Moments

• Andrew Hickey [09:17]: Discussing Mick Taylor's influence on the band during their US tour.
• Oscar Wilde [27:32]: "Angel of the morning... Angel slowly turn away from me."
• Andrew Hickey [35:36]: Recounting the humorous incident with police truncheons during the recording of "Let's Spend the Night Together."

Conclusion

This episode of A History of Rock Music in 500 Songs offers an in-depth exploration of the Rolling Stones during a pivotal year in their career. Andrew Hickey masterfully intertwines historical context, personal narratives, and musical analysis to provide listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the band's influence and the challenges they faced. Through notable quotes and structured storytelling, the episode paints a vivid picture of the Rolling Stones' legacy within the broader tapestry of rock music history.