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The Rolling Stones and James Brown through the years
American ’60s R&B/soul/funk superstar (and beyond), it’s a fact that the Godfather of Soul influenced Mick Jagger’s stage movements. He preceded the Stones in the taping of the T.A.M.I. Show in 1964. Although Brown was the toughest of acts to follow, the Stones were extremely pleased with their performance. Later on, in 1981, Brown was scheduled to open the New York shows for the Stones, but then that didn’t happen. A big fan for decades, in 2014 Mick Jagger produced James Brown’s biopic Get On Up, also working on a documentary on “the hardest working man in show business” in the last few years, which still remains unreleased.
More about James Brown’s influence on The Rolling Stones
Get on up! James Brown’s influence on The Rolling Stones is undeniable and profound, shaping both their musical direction and live performance style. As one of the most electrifying and innovative figures in music, James Brown revolutionized rhythm and blues, funk, and soul, laying the groundwork for the sound that would captivate global audiences. His mastery of live performance, rhythmic precision, and distinctive style left a lasting impression on Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, and the rest of the band.
From the very beginning of their career, The Rolling Stones were drawn to the energy and raw power of Brown’s live performances. Mick Jagger, in particular, was captivated by Brown’s dynamic stage presence and infectious energy. Jagger often cited James Brown as a major influence on his own performance style. The soul and gospel-inspired exuberance that Brown brought to his shows was something that Jagger sought to replicate, albeit with his own, more rebellious twist. Jagger’s energetic dancing and crowd engagement mirrored Brown’s moves, emphasizing the importance of commanding the stage and creating an emotional connection with the audience.
James Brown’s Lasting Impact on Keith Richards and The Rolling Stones
Keith Richards, too, was influenced by Brown’s innovative approach to rhythm and groove. Brown’s groundbreaking use of rhythm, particularly the tight, syncopated beats and the interplay between the bass and drums, helped shape Richards’ understanding of how groove could drive a song.
In addition to their musical influences, The Rolling Stones were heavily inspired by Brown’s showmanship. James Brown’s live performances were legendary for their energy and spectacle, often involving choreographed routines, dramatic pauses, and an almost spiritual intensity. This approach to performance was something that The Rolling Stones adopted in their own shows. Jagger and Brown shared a similar need to dominate the stage, though with differing styles—Jagger’s movements were often more fluid and serpentine, while Brown’s were sharper and more defined. Still, both shared an unwavering commitment to live performance as a means to transcend the music itself.
From Groove to Greatness: How James Brown Shaped the Stones’ Evolution
James Brown’s influence extended beyond the music itself, impacting The Rolling Stones’ attitude towards performance and their relentless pursuit of musical excellence. As they gained more success, The Rolling Stones embraced a more eclectic mix of genres—incorporating elements of funk, soul, and rhythm and blues into their rock sound. This fusion, which included the influence of James Brown, contributed to their evolution as one of the most important rock bands of all time.
Ultimately, James Brown and The Rolling Stones shared a deep mutual respect. While their musical paths diverged, with Brown’s focus on soul and funk and the Stones’ on rock and roll, the roots of their music were undeniably intertwined. Brown’s fearless energy and creative vision paved the way for the Stones’ own exploration of musical boundaries, establishing a foundation of rhythm, groove, and performance that would echo throughout the history of rock and roll.
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