The Rolling Stones – Sympathy for the Devil – 1968

About The Song

“Sympathy for the Devil” is a rock song by The Rolling Stones, released in 1968 on their album “Beggars Banquet.” Here are five facts about the song:

1. Composition and Lyrics: The song was written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards and is known for its distinctive samba rhythm. The lyrics are written from the perspective of the devil and explore various historical events, reflecting on humanity’s darker aspects. The line “Please allow me to introduce myself” opens the song and sets the tone for its narrative.
2. Influence of Latin Music: “Sympathy for the Devil” features a prominent Latin percussion section, including congas and maracas, giving the song a unique and danceable quality. This incorporation of Latin rhythms was a departure from the band’s previous work and showcased their experimentation with different musical styles.
3. Evolution of the Song: The song went through various iterations during the recording process. Initially, it had a folk-rock feel, but as the band experimented in the studio, it evolved into the more dynamic and rhythmically complex version that became the final recording.
4. Controversial Reception: Due to its provocative lyrics and themes, “Sympathy for the Devil” faced controversy upon its release. Some listeners misunderstood the song, and there were concerns about its potential to incite controversy or be misinterpreted. Despite this, it has since been recognized as a classic and one of The Rolling Stones’ greatest songs.
5. Cinematic and Cultural Impact: The song has been featured in numerous films and TV shows, contributing to its enduring cultural impact. It became particularly associated with the 1970 film “Performance,” where Mick Jagger played a major role. The song’s use in various media has helped solidify its status as a timeless and influential rock classic.

Video

Lyrics

Please allow me to introduce myself
I’m a man of wealth and taste
I’ve been around for a long, long years
Stole million man’s soul an faith

And I was ’round when Jesus Christ
Had his moment of doubt and pain
Made damn sure that Pilate
Washed his hands and sealed his fate

Pleased to meet you
Hope you guess my name
But what’s puzzling you
Is the nature of my game

Stuck around St. Petersburg
When I saw it was a time for a change
Killed Tsar and his ministers
Anastasia screamed in vain

I rode a tank
Held a general’s rank
When the blitzkrieg raged
And the bodies stank

Pleased to meet you
Hope you guess my name, oh yeah
Ah, what’s puzzling you
Is the nature of my game, oh yeah

I watched with glee
While your kings and queens
Fought for ten decades
For the gods they made

I shouted out
Who killed the Kennedys?
When after all
It was you and me

Let me please introduce myself
I’m a man of wealth and taste
And I laid traps for troubadours
Who get killed before they reached Bombay

Pleased to meet you
Hope you guessed my name, oh yeah
But what’s puzzling you
Is the nature of my game, oh yeah, get down, baby

Pleased to meet you
Hope you guessed my name, oh yeah
But what’s confusing you
Is just the nature of my game

Just as every cop is a criminal
And all the sinners saints
As heads is tails
Just call me Lucifer
‘Cause I’m in need of some restraint

So if you meet me
Have some courtesy
Have some sympathy, and some taste
Use all your well-learned politnesse
Or I’ll lay your soul to waste, mm yeah

Pleased to meet you
Hope you guessed my name, mm yeah
But what’s puzzling you
Is the nature of my game, mm mean it, get down

Woo, who
Oh yeah, get on down
Oh yeah
Aah yeah

Tell me baby, what’s my name?
Tell me honey, can ya guess my name?
Tell me baby, what’s my name?
I tell you one time, you’re to blame

What’s my name
Tell me, baby, what’s my name?
Tell me, sweetie, what’s my name?