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Rolling Stones songs: Sweet Black Angel
Well, she ain’t no singer/ And she ain’t no star/ But she sure talk good/ And she moves so fast…
Written by: Jagger/Richard Also known as: BLACK ANGEL; BENT GREEN NEEDLES Recorded: Rolling Stones Mobile, Stargroves and Olympic Studios, London, England, March-May 1970; Rolling Stones Mobile, Nellcote, France, July-Oct./Nov. 1971; Sunset Sound Studios, Los Angeles, USA, Dec. 1971-March 1972; RCA Studios, Los Angeles, USA, March 1972 Guest musicians: Amyl Nitrate (Richard ‘Didymus’ Washington, marimbas), Jimmy Miller (percussion) *Data taken from Martin Elliott’s book THE ROLLING STONES COMPLETE RECORDING SESSIONS 1962-2012
More about ‘Sweet Black Angel’ by The Rolling Stones
*By Marcelo Sonaglioni Things took a dramatic turn on August 7, 1970, when a courthouse hostage situation during the Soledad Brothers’ trial left four people dead, including Judge Harold Haley. The gun used in the incident had been purchased by Davis just days before. With the FBI after her, she went on the run but was caught on October 13, 1970. She remained in prison until her trial began on January 5, 1971.
Eventually Angela Davis pleaded not guilty, sparking a massive wave of support both in the U.S. and around the world. Activists, artists, and ordinary people rallied behind her, forming support committees and demanding justice. After spending over a year behind bars, she was finally acquitted and freed in 1972.
Mick Jagger and Keith Richards had already written Sweet Black Angelbefore Davis was released under the title Bent Green Needles, which is why the lyrics feel like a passionate call for her freedom. Jagger paints her as a fighter—“ain’t no singer, ain’t no star”—but also as a woman in danger, “a gal in chains.” The chorus drives home the plea: “Free the sweet black slave”, while controversial lyrics like “Ten little nigga” didn’t stir much backlash, as it was widely recognized as a parody.
Richard Didymus Washington contributed marimba to this track, adding a distinctive percussive layer to the song. Credited under the alias Amyl Nitrate, his involvement brought a unique rhythmic texture to the recording. At the time, Washington was a skilled percussionist known for his work with Dr. John, an artist celebrated for blending blues, funk, and New Orleans-style rhythms. His marimba playing on this track showcases his talent for creating rich, dynamic sounds that complemented the Stones’ raw energy.
Despite its powerful message, Sweet Black Angelwasn’t a major political anthem but rather a deeply personal tribute. The track was later released as the B-side to Tumbling Dice, adding a rebellious, socially conscious edge to the Stones’ Exile on Main St. era.
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