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The Rolling Stones live in Shanghai 2014

March 12, 2014: Mercedes-Benz Arena, Shanghai, China
*With guests The Dulwich International Singers choir on You Can’t Always Get What You Want
*All photos from the IORR site

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On March 12, 2014, the Rolling Stones rocked Shanghai’s Mercedes-Benz Arena, bringing their 14 On Fire tour to China for the very first time. Despite decades of controversy surrounding Western rock in the country, the Stones finally got to do what they do best—deliver a high-energy, no-holds-barred performance.

Years before, The Stones faced censorship in China for years due to their rebellious image and lyrical content. Their association with rock ‘n’ roll’s anti-establishment attitude, combined with lyrics touching on drugs, sex, and social unrest, made them a target for government restrictions.

One of the most controversial tracks in their catalog, Street Fighting Man, was also a point of contention. Originally inspired by the student protests in Paris in 1968, the song had long been seen as an anthem of rebellion. Its themes of political unrest and resistance made it a red flag for censorship in China, where the government closely monitors music and entertainment for any messages that could be interpreted as subversive.

Mick Jagger, ever the showman, greeted the crowd in Mandarin, instantly winning them over. The setlist was a mix of classics that ignited the crowd. Fans even got a special treat—“Street Fighting Man,” a song once banned in China, made it onto the setlist, proving that rock ‘n’ roll will always find a way. The audience, a mix of locals and traveling diehards, fed off the band’s energy, making for an electric night.

Shanghai 2014 was more than just another stop on the tour—it was a statement. The Stones had finally conquered China, proving that even after 50 years, they were still setting stages on fire worldwide.

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