The Rolling Stones' latest album, 'Foreign Tongues', has sparked a debate about the meaning behind Mick Jagger's lyrics. The song 'Mr Charm' features a line that has caused some fans to speculate about a slight towards Elon Musk: 'Who would take you into space? Who would you really trust? Is it Boeing, is it NASA, is it mad mogul Mr Musk?' However, Jagger has since clarified that this was not his intention.
In an interview with The New York Times, Jagger explained that the line was about his childhood dream of going to Mars and the trustworthiness of different entities in space exploration. He specifically mentioned Musk's role in providing transportation for astronauts, which NASA couldn't offer. Jagger emphasized that the line was a compliment, highlighting Musk's ability to make things happen when others couldn't.
Despite this clarification, the term 'mogul' has a negative connotation and can be seen as a slight. Jagger acknowledged this, stating that he understands the potential misinterpretation. He also mentioned that the song is a reflection of his own experiences and the state of America today, rather than a direct attack on any individual.
The album 'Foreign Tongues' features collaborations with renowned artists like Paul McCartney, Robert Smith, Steve Winwood, and Chad Smith, as well as posthumous appearances from Charlie Watts. It has received positive reviews, with NME giving it three-and-a-half stars, describing it as 'fresh and refined' and praising the band's current creative momentum.
Jagger's personal taste in music is also noteworthy. He has expressed admiration for Sam Fender's 'People Watching' album, calling it 'excellent'. This demonstrates his appreciation for contemporary music and his willingness to engage with diverse artistic expressions.
In conclusion, while the initial interpretation of the 'mad mogul' lyric may have been misleading, Jagger's clarification provides a more nuanced understanding of the song's meaning. The album 'Foreign Tongues' showcases the band's continued creativity and collaboration, and Jagger's personal musical interests add depth to his artistic journey.
