About the song
“Wild Horses,” an enduring ballad by the iconic English rock band The Rolling Stones, stands as a testament to their ability to blend introspective lyrics with emotive melodies. Initially penned during a pivotal period in 1969, the song found its roots during recording sessions at Muscle Shoals Sound Studio in Alabama. Despite its early inception, it wasn’t until over a year later that “Wild Horses” saw its official release, owing to legal complexities with the band’s former label.
The song’s genesis is intertwined with the collaborative process between Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, epitomizing their songwriting chemistry. Richards’ evocative guitar riff and Jagger’s poignant verses capture a raw vulnerability, reflecting themes of longing and introspection. The melancholic tone resonates deeply, amplified by Mick Taylor’s acoustic guitar, using Nashville tuning to enrich the song’s acoustic texture. The session also featured Jim Dickinson on piano, contributing to the track’s atmospheric depth.
Released in 1971 as part of the seminal album Sticky Fingers, “Wild Horses” garnered critical acclaim and solidified its place as a fan favorite. Despite not being released as a single worldwide initially, its subsequent US release in June 1971 peaked at number 28 on the Billboard Hot 100, affirming its crossover appeal.
Over the years, “Wild Horses” has maintained its cultural significance, featuring prominently in various films and television shows. Its acoustic version, recorded for the album Stripped in 1995, provided a renewed perspective on the song, showcasing its timeless resonance and adaptability. The song’s inclusion in The Rolling Stones’ concert DVDs and live performances underscores its enduring popularity and emotional impact on audiences worldwide.
Ranked among the greatest songs of all time by Rolling Stone magazine and celebrated for its profound lyrical narrative, “Wild Horses” remains a poignant reflection of The Rolling Stones’ musical legacy. Its ability to evoke deep emotions and connect with listeners across generations ensures its enduring status as a classic in rock music history.
Video
Lyrics
Childhood living
Is easy to do
The things you wanted
I bought them for you
Graceless lady
You know who I am
You know I can’t let you
Slide through my hands
Wild horses
Couldn’t drag me away
Wild, wild horses
Couldn’t drag me away
I watched you suffer
A dull aching pain
Now you’ve decided
To show me the same
No sweeping exit
Or offstage lines
Could make me feel bitter
Or treat you unkind
Wild horses
Couldn’t drag me away
Wild, wild horses
Couldn’t drag me away
I know I’ve dreamed you
A sin and a lie
I have my freedom
But I don’t have much time
Faith has been broken
Tears must be cried
Let’s do some living
After we die
Wild horses
Couldn’t drag me away
Wild, wild horses
We’ll ride them some day
Wild horses
Couldn’t drag me away
Wild, wild horses
We’ll ride them some day