Full Breakdown
Mick Jagger Says Rolling Stones Concerts Should Remain Apolitical, Focus on Pure Fun
7/21/2026, 9:12:27 PM
Live Shows Should Be About Escapism, Not Politics
Mick Jagger told host of *The New York Times* podcast *The Interview* that his priority on stage is to give audiences a two-hour break from everyday worries. He explained that the band tailors each performance to the venue and crowd, noting that festival audiences often include casual listeners who are not “die-hard fans.” Jagger emphasized that the goal is to make people “go more apeshit” rather than lecture them on political issues.
Political Themes Slip Into New Album “Foreign Tongues”
While concerts stay clear of overt commentary, Jagger admitted that the songwriting process for the band’s latest record includes “a trick” of inserting a political verse into otherwise personal songs. He dismissed speculation that the track “Mr Charm” targets Elon Musk, saying listeners hear the name but miss the broader lyric. The album, released on July 10, also features collaborations with Paul McCartney, The Cure’s Robert Smith, Steve Winwood, and Red Hot Chili Peppers drummer Chad Smith, alongside posthumous contributions from Charlie Watts.
Official Statements from Mick Jagger
Jagger’s remarks on the live-music philosophy were summed up in his own words:
“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. Their mortgages and whatever. Just so they can have the best time,” — Mick Jagger
Album Details and Collaborations
- Release date: July 10 (occurred)
- Key collaborators: Paul McCartney, Robert Smith, Steve Winwood, Chad Smith, Charlie Watts (posthumous)
- Supporting media: The six-part podcast *Speaking In Tongues*, narrated by Norah Jones, features new interviews with Jagger, Keith Richards, Ronnie Wood, and Charlie Watts.
The Rolling Stones’ approach separates the concert experience—pure, unfiltered entertainment—from the more nuanced political commentary woven into their studio work.
