Cinema VinesMick Jagger, the iconic frontman of The Rolling Stones, recently sat down with the Hindustan Times to discuss his latest album, Foreign Tongues, and his enduring fascination with Indian music. At 82, Jagger continues to channel the energy of a younger artist, contributing vocals to the band’s 25th studio release, which dropped last week after a career that has spanned more than six decades.
The interview highlighted Jagger’s admiration for the dedication and discipline that Indian musicians bring to their craft. He recalled reading about a woman who travelled across Kolkata by train to attend music lessons, only to find that her first six sessions involved mastering scales before any ragas were taught. “I don’t pretend to be knowledgeable about it,” Jagger said, “but from the very early days, when I was first exposed to it, I always found it amazing.” He praised the rigorous practice required to learn a single raag, comparing it to the commitment needed for Western classical music.
Jagger also spoke about the emotional depth he perceives in Indian music, describing it as “the music of eternity.” He noted how the genre can shift from lively to dramatic, inspiring listeners to dance. The Rolling Stones’ earlier work, such as the classic “Paint It Black,” already hinted at Indian influences, and Jagger continues to explore these sounds. He mentioned his recent interest in veena player Debashish Bhattacharya and the way guitar techniques have been adapted into Indian music.
Having visited India multiple times, including attending the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup, Jagger reflected on the limited number of concerts the Stones have performed there—only two shows in 2003. He expressed a strong desire to return, saying, “I just would love to come back. It’s been so many years since we played there, and it was most enjoyable.” Jagger’s enthusiasm for Indian culture and music underscores his lifelong commitment to artistic exploration, even at the age of 82.
