Mick Jagger Says There’s Nothing Good About Getting Older and Dismisses the Idea of Age-Related Wisdom
The legendary frontman of The Rolling Stones, Mick Jagger, has offered a candid and rather stark perspective on the aging process, asserting that there is "nothing good" about getting older and decisively rejecting the common notion that advanced years invariably bring wisdom. The 82-year-old rock icon shared these unvarnished thoughts during a recent appearance on The New York Times‘ podcast, The Interview, providing listeners with an intimate glimpse into his reflections on life, fame, and the inevitable march of time.
Jagger’s forthrightness on the topic of aging stands in contrast to many who embrace the perceived advantages of maturity, such as enhanced insight and accumulated knowledge. When posed the question of whether there were any positive or negative aspects to aging, Jagger’s response was unequivocal: "There’s nothing good about it. Nothing." He elaborated on this sentiment, stating, "You don’t get wisdom. You forget everything. Forgot all my wisdom." He painted a vivid picture of this mental attrition, lamenting, "I might have had a couple of pearls, but I’ve forgotten what they are."
Beyond the intellectual erosion he described, Jagger also touched upon the physical limitations that accompany aging. "It’s not particularly pleasant and, of course, 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 admitted. While acknowledging that many activities are still within reach, he stressed the need for increased caution, adding, "You can still do them, but you have to be more careful." This pragmatic acknowledgment of physical realities underscores a grounded approach to his own well-being, even as he grapples with the broader implications of his advancing age.
The conversation also delved into the profound and often isolating impact of over six decades of relentless global fame on Jagger’s relationship with the outside world. He candidly described his existence as inherently abnormal, stating, "Obviously, it’s not normal. It is not like most people’s lives." This sustained level of public scrutiny and the unique trajectory of his career have, in his view, contributed to a potential for detachment. "It does affect you. You can become disassociated. From other people," he explained, highlighting the challenge of maintaining genuine connections when one’s life is lived under such an intense spotlight.
Maintaining Groundedness Amidst Global Acclaim
In an effort to counter the disassociating effects of extraordinary fame, Jagger revealed his personal strategy for staying connected to the everyday reality that most people experience. When asked about his methods for remaining grounded, he offered a simple yet profound answer: "You go out and walk on the street on your own and do normal things." This practice of immersing himself in ordinary activities, unburdened by the trappings of stardom, serves as a vital anchor, allowing him to retain a sense of normalcy and connection to the wider world. This personal ritual underscores a commitment to self-awareness and a deliberate effort to avoid becoming detached from the human experience.
The Stones’ Role as Escapist Purveyors
Beyond his personal reflections on aging and fame, Jagger also elaborated on the enduring philosophy behind The Rolling Stones’ live performances. In a separate discussion, he underscored the band’s commitment to providing an escape for their audiences, emphasizing that their concerts are designed to be a respite from the pressures of daily life, rather than a platform for political discourse. "The bottom line is that my job in the live music world is to [ensure] people that come have the best time they possibly can, and for two hours forget all their problems and the problems of the world," he articulated. He further explained the band’s intention to offer a temporary reprieve from everyday worries, such as financial burdens: "Their mortgages and whatever. Just so they can have the best time."
Jagger’s vision for a Stones concert is one of unadulterated exhilaration. "Your job is to make them go more apeshit," he declared, highlighting the energetic and cathartic experience the band aims to deliver. "You don’t want to lecture them," he added, firmly positioning their shows as a form of joyous release rather than an educational or ideological session. This approach has been a hallmark of The Rolling Stones’ career, resonating with millions of fans worldwide who seek an immersive and uplifting experience at their legendary concerts.
Chart-Topping Success and Future Creative Endeavors
These candid reflections come at a significant moment for The Rolling Stones, following the release of their 25th studio album, Hackney Diamonds, on October 20, 2023. The album has been met with considerable critical acclaim and commercial success, marking a triumphant return to the charts for the iconic band. Hackney Diamonds rapidly ascended to become the band’s 15th UK Number One album, a remarkable achievement that places them in esteemed company. This accomplishment draws them level with The Beatles for the second-most number-one albums by a group in UK history, trailing only Robbie Williams. The album’s success serves as a powerful testament to the enduring appeal and creative vitality of The Rolling Stones, even after decades in the music industry.
Despite his candid views on the challenges of aging, Jagger has consistently demonstrated his commitment to ongoing creative output. In a recent interview with NME, he revealed that he remains actively involved in songwriting and has already begun crafting new material. When questioned about the possibility of a follow-up album, he hinted at the potential for a continued creative output, stating, "Yeah, it could be a trio [of records]." He further elaborated on his prolific nature, noting, "I’ve already started writing songs anyway. They could be for other people though." This forward-looking perspective suggests that Hackney Diamonds may be just one chapter in a continued creative saga for the legendary rock band.
NME’s review of Hackney Diamonds lauded the album with a three-and-a-half-star rating, noting a surprising resurgence in the band’s creative energy. The review observed, "Mick, Keith and Ronnie have hit a surprising purple patch – and if you believe the eternally energetic entertainer’s claim that he’s already writing the follow-up to Hackney Diamonds, there’s plenty more left in the tank." This assessment echoes Jagger’s own sentiment, reinforcing the idea that The Rolling Stones are far from finished.
A Glimpse into Future Performances
While The Rolling Stones have yet to announce any concrete tour dates for their latest album, Jagger has expressed his eagerness to return to the stage. He has previously indicated a hope that the band will resume live performances in the near future, suggesting a potential for shows in 2027. In a previous conversation with NME, he conveyed his optimism about continuing their live legacy: "Hopefully [we haven’t played our last show]. I don’t think there’ll be shows this year, but I hope to do some next year for the Stones." This anticipation for future performances, coupled with the continued success of their recorded output, indicates that the spirit of The Rolling Stones remains as vibrant as ever, defying the limitations that Jagger associates with aging.
The band’s sustained presence in the music industry, coupled with their ability to adapt and continue producing relevant and successful work, positions them as a unique entity in the history of popular music. Jagger’s candid reflections on aging, while perhaps unconventional, offer a refreshing honesty that resonates with the realities of human experience, even for those who have lived extraordinary lives. His commitment to continued creativity and performance, despite his expressed reservations about getting older, speaks volumes about his enduring passion for music and his dedication to his craft and his fans. The Rolling Stones’ journey continues, fueled by a legacy of iconic music and a frontman who, despite his age, shows no signs of slowing down.
