The Rolling Stones have many famed lyrics to their name. You don’t amass a catalog such as theirs without adding a few familiar phrases into the zeitgeist. However, the lines below are quoted far less than say a line or two from “Wild Horses” or “You Can’t Always Get What You Want.” They are certainly out there, and more than worthy of a listen. Check out three of our favorite wild Stones lyrics, below.
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[RELATED: David Bowie vs. The Rolling Stones: Who Did “Let’s Spend the Night Together” Better?]
1. The preacher said, ‘You know, you always have the Lord by your side’ / Well, I was so pleased to be informed of this that I ran twenty red lights in His honor (“Far Away Eyes”)
Perhaps this one isn’t so weird as it is laughably sarcastic. Those that don’t have the context of Mick Jagger’s wit might deem this a pointed bit of sacrilege. However, given the frontman’s blithe demeanor, we have to assume Jagger was poking fun at religious types–no true harm intended. Still, these lyrics are a little out there, especially in the context of the rest of the song. It certainly sticks out while listening to “Far Away Eyes.”
2. We’re talking h*roin with the president / Well it’s a problem, sir, but it can’t be bent (“Respectable”)
Ironically, the Stones put on a punky attitude for “Respectable.” They weren’t afraid to push the envelope for this track, living up to the reputation of being on bad behavior. The lyrics above are one of the opening lines to this track…it certainly sets the tone. Nodding to the story of Elvis Presley and his infamous run in with President Nixon, the Stones dare to say the one thing that is sure to deem them unworthy of this song title.
3. I’m a cold Italian pizza / I could use a lemon squeezer / Would you do? (“Monkey Man”)
Rock music–with its purveying of a certain lifestyle–isn’t always the most sound, logically. Countless top rock hits have seemingly nonsensical lyrics–including this track from the Stones, “Monkey Man.” The title alone is enough to generate pause, but the lyrics add to the head scratching tenfold. Take the lyrics above for an example. We’ve heard many attempts at snagging a romantic partner for the night, but few are as odd as this one. Lemon on pizza? And why would one call himself a cold pizza? It’s all very heady–to heady for us to nail down. We’re sure Jagger had his reasons, but we’re not sure this line would inspire a loving sentiment in us.
(Photo by David Fenton/Getty Images)
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