The Rolling Stones are set to release their highly anticipated new album, titled *Foreign Tongues*, on July 10. In a recent interview with Apple Music’s Zane Lowe, band member Keith Richards shared intriguing insights into the creative processes behind the album and reflected on the band’s long-standing musical journey.
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Richards disclosed that one of the new tracks, “Some of Us,” has been germinating in his mind for many years without being fully realised. At 82, he candidly admitted that some songs take persistence and time, stating, “Some songs are very elusive.” This resonates with his experience during the creation of the iconic “Start Me Up,” which was eventually released as part of their 1981 album *Tattoo You*. Richards revealed that the process from conception to release took a surprising ten years.
In recalling his efforts to craft “Start Me Up,” Richards shared that the song initially featured a reggae rhythm, which was explored extensively before settling on its signature rock and roll sound. He noted, “I remember the first hundred takes were reggae rhythm. It went through a lot of styles before we said, ‘Hey, why don’t we just play rock and roll?’ That’s the one that made it.” This reflects the band’s willingness to experiment with different genres over the years.
The conversation with Zane Lowe also touched on the overarching theme of time in the music industry. Richards drew parallels between the ageing of songs and fine wine, suggesting that the best creations often take time to mature. This philosophy is echoed in the new album, which boasts collaborations with musical luminaries such as Paul McCartney, Robert Smith of The Cure, and members of the Red Hot Chili Peppers.
Mick Jagger, the band’s charismatic frontman, also weighed in on the subject of favourite Rolling Stones tracks during a separate interview on NBC’s *TODAY*. When prompted to select his top pick, Jagger found it challenging, citing “Start Me Up” as a contender due to its diverse style and enduring appeal. The band’s extensive catalogue includes many fan favourites, ranging from “Sympathy for the Devil” to “Angie” and “Honky Tonk Women,” each contributing to their timeless legacy.
The forthcoming album *Foreign Tongues* is anticipated to capture the essence of the Rolling Stones’ signature sound while also incorporating contemporary elements through its collaborations. The enthusiasm surrounding the project is palpable, as fans eagerly await the innovative contributions from musicians like McCartney, who joins Richards and Jagger on the track “Covered in You.”
Richards also touched on the reasons behind the band’s extraordinary longevity in the music industry. With characteristic wit, he attributed their endurance to “healthy living and going to bed early.” His tongue-in-cheek advice reflects a lifestyle that has allowed the band to remain active and relevant across decades of changing musical trends.
As the release date for *Foreign Tongues* approaches, the excitement among fans and critics alike continues to build. The Rolling Stones, a band that has consistently pushed musical boundaries, are set to deliver yet another collection of tracks that promise to resonate with listeners both old and new.
In the vibrant world of rock and roll, the Rolling Stones remain an undeniable force, and *Foreign Tongues* is poised to further solidify their legendary status in music history. With their unique approach to songwriting and their knack for reinventing their sound, the band is expected to continue captivating audiences around the globe. As fans prepare for the album’s debut, it is clear that the Stones have no intention of slowing down anytime soon.