About the song
Released in 1971 as part of their iconic album Sticky Fingers, “Wild Horses” is a poignant ballad that showcases The Rolling Stones’ ability to blend raw emotion with sophisticated musicality. This timeless track has been celebrated for its lyrical depth, haunting melody, and enduring appeal.
The song’s melancholic beauty is immediately apparent in its opening, which features a gentle, haunting piano melody played by session musician Paul Buckmaster. This reflective tone sets the stage for Mick Jagger’s tender, soulful vocals, which convey a sense of longing and introspection. The lyrics, penned by Jagger and Keith Richards, explore themes of love, loss, and resilience, painting a vivid picture of a relationship that has reached its end.
The song’s arrangement, which includes strings and a subtle, yet powerful, rhythm section, enhances its lyrical themes. The interplay between the piano, guitar, and drums creates a sense of tension and release, mirroring the emotional turmoil expressed in the lyrics. The song’s simplicity, both in its melody and its arrangement, contributes to its enduring power.
While “Wild Horses” was not released as a single, it quickly became a fan favorite and a critical success. The song’s popularity helped to propel the Sticky Fingers album to the top of the charts in both the UK and the US. Over the years, “Wild Horses” has been covered by numerous artists and featured in various films and television shows, cementing its place as a timeless classic.
Listening to “Wild Horses,” one is struck by the profound emotional depth and the evocative beauty of the track. The song’s ability to resonate deeply with listeners across generations is a testament to The Rolling Stones’ exceptional talent and their enduring legacy.
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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