The Pop Zeal Project: The Rolling Stones: “Angie”

Whether it was in the ‘60s when The Beach Boys sang about Barbara Ann, or in the ‘80s when Toto sang about Rosanna, women have been the source of inspiration behind many songs. Recently, Lady Gaga dedicated an entire album to her departed aunt, Joanne, and even with 2020’s Chromatica, Gaga includes a song entitled, “Alice,” and the list goes on.

But for today, we go back to 1973 when The Rolling Stones released “Angie,” with Mick Jagger lamenting to Angie that “ain’t it time we say goodbye,” although ironically still claiming to love her and that there “ain’t a woman that comes close to you.” There’s much continued speculation as to who the inspiration is for this track; one theory is that Jagger’s lyrical contribution is based on his breakup with the singer, Marianne Faithful, yet most of the writing credit steers more toward Keith Richards, who around this time became the father of a daughter who would eventually be called Angela. Richards claimed the song “wasn’t about any particular person.”

The track is perhaps more memorable as one (of many) that features Jagger’s exaggerated vocal delivery, as he calls out (and at one point whispers) Angie’s name quickly, followed by elongating the first syllable in the name for dramatic effect. As far as breakup songs go, “Angie” is one for the ages.