5 Criminally Underrated Mick Jagger Songs

Mick Jagger’s powerful vocals, charismatic stage presence, and songwriting prowess have solidified his status as a legendary figure. While the Stones’ discography is vast and celebrated, Jagger’s solo career often takes a backseat. However, buried beneath the surface of his extensive output lie gems that deserve a closer listen.

Beyond the glitz and glamor of his life with the Stones, Jagger has explored various artistic avenues, from acting to solo music. His solo work, while met with a mixed reception, showcases a different side of the multifaceted artist. It’s a territory less traveled by many, yet brimming with unexpected musical treasures.

This article delves into the often-overlooked corners of Mick Jagger’s solo discography, highlighting five tracks that truly deserve your attention. These criminally underrated songs showcase a range of musical styles and lyrical depth that might surprise even the most ardent Stones fan.

1. “War Baby” (Primitive Cool, 1987)

Primitive Cool boasts an impressive lineup, including Dave Stewart of The Eurythmics as producer, Paddy Moloney of The Chieftans on uilleann pipes, and Jeff Beck on guitar. The album’s title track is a slick, politically charged jam about the Cold War.

“War Baby” is a slick, jam-packed tune that delivers a potent message about the Cold War, showcasing Jagger’s ability to blend musicality with political commentary. While it might not have reached the same heights as the album’s title track, it still showcases Jagger’s adventurous spirit and willingness to experiment with different sounds.

2. “Lonely At The Top” (She’s the Boss, 1985)

Mick Jagger’s 1985 album She’s The Boss marked his first solo venture outside of the Rolling Stones. Interestingly, the album’s opening track, “Lonely At The Top”, is a collaborative effort with fellow Stones Keith Richards.

Despite the shared credit, the song undeniably showcases Jagger’s solo artistry. With its stylish sound reminiscent of Lindsey Buckingham-era Fleetwood Mac, “Lonely At The Top” proves that Jagger’s songwriting prowess extends beyond his iconic rock and roll persona.

3. “Party Doll” (Primitive Cool, 1987)

Primitive Cool delivers another gem with “Party Doll”, featuring another collaboration between Mick Jagger and Moloney. Moloney’s distinctive uilleann pipes infuse the track with a captivating Celtic folk element, enhancing the song’s overall charm.

“Party Doll” delves into the complexities of a changing relationship. The lyrics paint a picture of a once vibrant and captivating individual who has grown weary of the party lifestyle. The song explores themes of lost excitement and the desire for a more grounded and settled existence.

4. “Too Far Gone” (Goddess In The Doorway, 2001)

Jagger’s 2001 album, Goddess In The Doorway, marked his return to solo music after a hiatus. While the album as a whole received mixed reviews, it contains some standout tracks, including “Too Far Gone”.

This bluesy gem, featuring the stellar guitar work of Aerosmith’s Joe Perry, showcases Jagger’s soulful vocals and songwriting abilities. Jagger’s lyrics express a clear rejection of nostalgia, emphasizing the importance of living in the present moment. The song’s fast-paced tempo mirrors the relentless march of time, creating a sense of urgency and inevitability.

5. “Don’t Tear Me Up” (Wandering Spirit, 1993)

The frontman’s 1990s solo output was limited to the album Wandering Spirit. While often overlooked, this record contains some hidden gems, and “Don’t Tear Me Up” is undoubtedly one of the best. The song’s unique blend of blues guitar and chord organ creates a captivating and almost operatic atmosphere.

Jagger’s vocals here are nothing short of extraordinary. His passionate delivery elevates the song to new heights. It’s hard to imagine how this powerful track would have fared as a Rolling Stones single, but it certainly deserves a place in the spotlight.