About the song
“(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction,” an iconic song by the Rolling Stones, stands as a defining moment in rock history, driven by its memorable guitar riff created by Keith Richards. Released in June 1965, the track quickly became a global sensation, marking the band’s breakthrough with their first number one hit in the United States and fourth in the United Kingdom. Known for its provocative lyrics about sexual frustration and consumer culture, the song resonated deeply with audiences, despite early censorship on British radio due to its suggestive content.
Keith Richards famously composed the riff in his sleep, capturing it on a Philips cassette player. The anecdote, illustrating Richards’ creative spontaneity, reflects the song’s organic genesis. Recorded initially at Chess Studios in Chicago and later refined at RCA Studios in Hollywood, the track underwent transformations, including the addition of a Maestro fuzzbox for the distinctive guitar sound. This decision proved pivotal, influencing the popularity of the fuzzbox among musicians and amplifying the song’s impact on rock music’s evolving sound.
“Satisfaction” is celebrated not only for its musical innovation but also for its cultural significance. Ranked 31st on Rolling Stone magazine’s list of “The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time” in 2021 and inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1998, it continues to resonate across generations. Its inclusion in the National Recording Registry of the Library of Congress in 2006 further underscores its enduring legacy.
Beyond its initial release, “Satisfaction” has been reinterpreted and remastered, with various stereo versions reflecting evolving production techniques. Despite its mono origins, later stereo releases have highlighted previously subtle elements like Jack Nitzsche’s piano and acoustic guitar. This ongoing interest underscores the song’s timeless appeal and ongoing influence on popular music.
Through its raw energy, rebellious spirit, and infectious riff, “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” not only propelled the Rolling Stones to international fame but also cemented their status as trailblazers in rock music. Its fusion of provocative lyrics and innovative guitar work remains a touchstone for artists exploring themes of alienation and cultural critique. As a testament to its impact, the song remains a staple in rock history and a defining moment in the Rolling Stones’ illustrious career.
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Lyrics
I can’t get no satisfaction
I can’t get no satisfaction
‘Cause I try and I try and I try and I try
I can’t get no, I can’t get no
When I’m drivin’ in my car
And the man comes on the radio
He’s tellin’ me more and more
About some useless information
Supposed to drive my imagination
I can’t get no, oh no, no, no
Hey, hey, hey, that’s what I say
I can’t get no satisfaction
I can’t get no satisfaction
‘Cause I try and I try and I try and I try
I can’t get no, I can’t get no
When I’m watchin’ my TV
And a man comes on and tells me
How white my shirts can be
But he can’t be a man ’cause he doesn’t smoke
The same cigarettes as me
I can’t get no, oh no, no, no
Hey, hey, hey, that’s what I say
I can’t get no satisfaction
I can’t get no girl reaction
‘Cause I try and I try and I try and I try
I can’t get no, I can’t get no
When I’m ridin’ ’round the world
And I’m doin’ this and I’m signing that
And I’m tryin’ to make some girl
Who tells me baby better come back, maybe next week
‘Cause you see I’m on a losing streak
I can’t get no, oh no, no, no
Hey, hey, hey, that’s what I say
I can’t get no, I can’t get no
I can’t get no satisfaction, no satisfaction
No satisfaction, no satisfaction
I can’t get no