Like what you see? Help keep it going! This site runs on the support of readers like you. Your donation helps cover costs and keeps fresh Rolling Stones content coming your way every day. Thank you!
Rolling Stones Songs: That’s How Strong My Love Is
I’ll be the ocean so deep and wide/ I’ll dry the tears when you cry…
Written by: Roosevelt Jamison Recorded: Chess Studios, Chicago, USA, May 10-11 1965 Guest musicians: Jack Nitzsche (piano and organ)
More about The Rolling Stones’ version of That’s How Strong My Love Is
How Otis Redding Inspired the Rolling Stones’ Soulful Side
The Rolling Stones’ take on That’s How Strong My Love Is, featured on their Out of Our Heads album, isn’t just another cover—it’s part of a rich soul lineage. Though often mistaken as a Stones original, their version actually borrows heavily from Otis Redding’s 1964 rendition, not the original cut by O.V. Wright. Redding’s version reimagined the track with a new melody and raw Southern soul power, recorded at Memphis’ iconic Stax Studios with Booker T & the MGs.
His performance gave the song a pleading urgency, trading Wright’s soft gospel-tinged tone for something bolder and brassier. The Stones, captivated by Redding’s sound, paid homage in their own recording, tracked at Chess Studios in Chicago in 1965. Their cover opens with a majestic intro, and Jagger’s unexpectedly tender vocals shine through, a shift from his usual defiant delivery. The result? A love song packed with soul, groove, and genuine emotion.
From Beale Street to Satisfaction
The song’s journey began with Roosevelt Jamison, a Mississippi-born songwriter who discovered O.V. Wright in Memphis and convinced him to record it for Goldwax Records. That version laid the foundation, but Redding’s powerful reinterpretation is what sparked the Stones’ interest. Not only did the band record That’s How Strong My Love Is, but their admiration for Redding ran so deep that he later returned the favor—covering (I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction in his own unforgettable style.
The Stones’ version added some unique flair—Jack Nitzsche’s elegant keyboard textures, Keith Richards’ sharp guitar fills, and halting rhythms that explode in a soaring chorus. While many others have covered the track—Bryan Ferry, Georgie Fame, Taj Mahal, and more—the Stones’ version stands out for blending British rock grit with Southern soul heart.
Like what you see? Help keep it going! This site runs on the support of readers like you. Your donation helps cover costs and keeps fresh Rolling Stones content coming your way every day. Thank you!
Privacy & Cookies: This site uses cookies. By continuing to use this website, you agree to their use.
To find out more, including how to control cookies, see here:
Cookie Policy
Subscribe to the Stones Data newsletter and get all daily posts delivered to you for free. Everybody got to go! *Support the site and help me keep sharing great content. Thanks in advance!
