Mick Jagger: The Not-So-Control Freak of Rock ‘n’ Roll

Mick Jagger, the iconic frontman of The Rolling Stones, has often been labeled a “control freak,” but he firmly denies this characterization. In a recent appearance on the Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend podcast, Jagger engaged in a candid conversation with the comedian, reflecting on his extensive career and the complexities of managing one of the most successful rock bands in history.

Backstage Insights

During the podcast, O’Brien recounted an observation he made while watching Jagger backstage at a recent event. He noted how deeply involved the rock legend was in the details of the show, prompting him to ask Keith Richards if this was the same Mick from 1962. Richards confirmed that Jagger’s meticulous nature had been a constant throughout the years.

Jagger’s Role in the Band

O’Brien posed an intriguing question about Jagger’s responsibility as “the organizer, the manager, the guy who’s keeping it together” for The Rolling Stones. Jagger acknowledged the perception of him as a control freak but quickly clarified his approach to leadership.

“Sometimes I was called a control freak,” Jagger admitted, “but I’m not a control freak at all. I like to delegate. The thing about doing this kind of thing is you delegate these big jobs.” This statement highlights Jagger’s belief in the importance of teamwork and collaboration within the band.

Understanding the Audience

One aspect of Jagger’s role that he takes very seriously is gauging the audience. He emphasized the importance of feeling the energy in the room before each performance.

Checking the Crowd

“You’ve got to see the room full,” he explained. “What kind of people are there? How many people are there? What does the room feel like? I think that’s important… You do want to fill the room because how your behavior would be, how the audience is going to react. I mean, so I think all that sort of stuff is really important.”

The Rolling Stones Today

As The Rolling Stones continue to make their mark in the music industry, they recently released their twenty-fifth studio album, *Foreign Tongues*. While no performances are currently scheduled, Jagger has hinted at the possibility of touring in 2027, keeping fans eagerly anticipating future shows.

Conclusion

Mick Jagger may have been labeled a control freak in the past, but his recent comments reveal a more nuanced understanding of leadership within The Rolling Stones. By prioritizing delegation and maintaining a close connection with audiences, Jagger proves that his approach to managing the legendary band is both effective and essential to their enduring success.

FAQs

Is Mick Jagger really a control freak?

Mick Jagger denies being a control freak, stating that he prefers to delegate responsibilities within the band.

What does Mick Jagger do before each performance?

Before each show, Jagger checks the crowd to gauge the audience’s energy and understand the atmosphere in the venue.

When was the last Rolling Stones album released?

The Rolling Stones released their twenty-fifth studio album, *Foreign Tongues*, recently.

Are the Rolling Stones planning to tour in the future?

While no performances are currently scheduled, Mick Jagger has suggested that the band may tour in 2027.