Mick Jagger, 82, Declares There’s ‘Nothing Good’ About Getting Older: ‘You Forget Everything’

Mick Jagger, the iconic frontman of The Rolling Stones, has recently shared his candid reflections on the realities of ageing, revealing his reluctance to accept the passage of time. In an interview published on July 11 by the New York Times, Jagger, now 82 years old, stated unequivocally, “There’s nothing good about it. You forget everything. I’ve forgotten all my wisdom.”

Expressing his dissatisfaction with the ageing process, Jagger lamented the physical limitations that accompany getting older. He remarked, “You can’t do things as quickly as you want to, and physically you can’t do things that you would like to do.” He added that he remains capable of performing tasks but stressed the necessity of exercising greater caution, underscoring a reality many of his peers may relate to.

Despite his discomfort with growing older, Jagger’s career continues to thrive, with the recent release of The Rolling Stones’ latest album, *Foreign Tongues*. This milestone has prompted reflection on how fame has shaped his perspective. Jagger acknowledged that his long-standing celebrity status has contributed to a sense of disconnection from ordinary life, admitting, “Obviously, it’s not normal. It does affect you. You can become disassociated from other people.”

To stay grounded amidst the glitz and glamour, Jagger emphasised the importance of maintaining a sense of normalcy. He described how he occasionally ventures out alone to walk the streets, engaging in everyday activities that keep him connected to the world outside his celebrity bubble.

In addition to discussing his views on ageing and personal experiences, Jagger also touched upon the band’s interaction with modern technology, particularly artificial intelligence. Recently, The Rolling Stones experimented with deepfake technology for their music video “In the Stars”, allowing their younger likenesses to appear while they performed the song. Jagger expressed joy in this innovative approach, stating, “We had a lot of fun with that. It’s only the faces of the musicians that are different… They’re all in a room, really playing together.”

Keith Richards, Jagger’s longtime bandmate, harmonised with Jagger’s sentiments, referring to their project as a “brushing with AI.” The guitarist expressed a touch of nostalgia, jokingly wishing he could resemble his younger self, while recognising the potential of such technology in creative endeavours. He noted, “Maybe that’s what they’re good for — music videos. Put it in its proper place.”

While reflecting on the songwriting and performance aspect of The Rolling Stones, Jagger’s thoughts resonate with a broader audience grappling with the complexities of ageing. His frankness serves as a reminder that the challenges of growing older transcend fame and fortune, affecting everyone in various ways.

As the world continues to evolve with technological advancements, the question of how it intersects with artistry remains significant. For Jagger and Richards, embracing new tools while honouring their legacy offers a unique lens through which to navigate the music landscape.

With *Foreign Tongues*, The Rolling Stones illustrate their enduring relevance in the industry, even as its members confront the realities of life beyond the stage. Their journey highlights not only their resilience but also the universal struggles of ageing, connection, and the art of reinvention.

As the iconic frontman continues to engage with fans and audiences worldwide, his reflections on ageing and the passage of time add depth to the narrative of a band that has endured for decades. Indeed, while Jagger may not relish the process of getting older, his contributions to music and culture remain vibrant and alive, reminding us all of the power of artistry in the face of life’s inevitable changes.