Sympathy For the Devil

“Sympathy for the Devil” was released in 1968 on the Beggar’s Banquet album.  The ballad was written by lead singer Mick Jagger and guitarist Keith Richards and has long provoked speculation about the deeper meaning behind the lyrical content.  It has been suggested that “Sympathy For the Devil” refers to the human race being lured into a false sense of security.  Even though the Devil may cause horrendous atrocities, it is the act of man that allows the atrocities to be carried out.  Take the line: “I shouted out ‘who killed the Kennedy’s?’ when after all it was you and me.”  It suggests that through the Devil’s persuasiveness, John and Robert Kennedy were in actuality killed by man-making the act a joint effort.  Jagger has repeatedly claimed that the song is more about the dark side of man rather than a celebration of Satan.  In addition to the Kennedy assassinations, the song also refers to the crucifixion of Christ, the Bolshevik Revolution in Russia and the Crusades.

“Sympathy For the Devil” was apparently inspired by old French writing and the lyrics were inspired by The Master and Margarita, a book by Mikhail Bulgakov.  Don’t miss out on seeing the Stones perform “Sympathy For the Devil” live onstage by going to Stubhub and purchasing a pair of Rolling Stones tickets.