About the song
The Rolling Stones’ “You Can’t Always Get What You Want” is a timeless anthem that has resonated with audiences for decades. Released in 1969 as part of their seminal album Let It Bleed, this track stands as a testament to the band’s enduring power and their ability to craft music that speaks to the universal human experience.
From the opening choral introduction, which sets a somber yet hopeful tone, to the reflective lyrics, “You Can’t Always Get What You Want” offers a poignant meditation on disappointment, resilience, and the unexpected ways in which we find meaning and purpose in life. The song’s message is both comforting and empowering, reminding us that even in the face of adversity, there is always hope to be found.
The song’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to connect with listeners on a deep emotional level. Its lyrics, penned by the iconic duo Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, explore themes of longing, frustration, and ultimately, acceptance. The chorus, with its simple yet powerful refrain, serves as a mantra for anyone who has faced setbacks or disappointments.
Beyond its emotional impact, “You Can’t Always Get What You Want” is also a musical masterpiece. The song’s arrangement, featuring a blend of blues, rock, and gospel influences, showcases the band’s creative versatility and their ability to seamlessly blend different musical styles. The interplay between the lead vocals, the backing harmonies, and the instrumental accompaniment creates a rich and textured sound that is both captivating and memorable.
“You Can’t Always Get What You Want” has become a staple in The Rolling Stones’ live performances, and its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the band’s music, this song is sure to leave a lasting impression. It’s a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always a glimmer of hope, and that sometimes, the most valuable things in life are the ones we least expect.
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Lyrics
I saw her today at the reception
A glass of wine in her hand
I knew she would meet her connection
At her feet was her footloose man
No, you can’t always get what you want
You can’t always get what you want
You can’t always get what you want
But if you try sometime you’ll find
You get what you need
I saw her today at the reception
A glass of wine in her hand
I knew she was gonna meet her connection
At her feet was her footloose man
You can’t always get what you want
You can’t always get what you want
You can’t always get what you want
But if you try sometimes, well, you might find
You get what you need
Ah, yeah
Oh
And I went down to the demonstration
To get my fair share of abuse
Singing, “We’re gonna vent our frustration
If we don’t we’re gonna blow a fifty-amp fuse”
Sing it to me, honey
You can’t always get what you want
You can’t always get what you want
You can’t always get what you want
But if you try sometimes, well, you just might find
You get what you need
Ah baby, yeah
Ah
I went down to the Chelsea drugstore
To get your prescription filled
I was standing in line with Mr. Jimmy
And, man, did he look pretty ill
We decided that we would have a soda
My favorite flavor, cherry red
I sung my song to Mr. Jimmy
Yeah, and he said one word to me, and that was “dead”
I said to him
You can’t always get what you want, well no
You can’t always get what you want. I tell you, baby
You can’t always get what you want, no
But if you try sometimes you just might find, uh, mm
You get what you need, oh yeah, woo!
Ah, woo!
You get what you need, yeah, oh baby
Ah yeah
I saw her today at the reception
In her glass was a bleeding man
She was practiced at the art of deception
Well, I could tell by her blood-stained hands, sing it
You can’t always get what you want, yeah
You can’t always get what you want, ooh yeah, child
You can’t always get what you want
But if you try sometimes you just might find
You just might find
You get what you need, ah yeah
Ah baby, woo!
Ah, you can’t always get what you want, no, no, baby
You can’t always get what you want, you can’t now, now
You can’t always get what you want
But if you try sometimes you just might find
You just might find that you
You get what you need, oh yeah
Ah yeah, do that