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Rolling Stones Under My Thumb
On The Acoustic
The song Rolling Stones Under My Thumb song is a hallmark of the legendary rock band's catalogue and continues to resonate with music lovers around the world, particularly guitar enthusiasts and musicians.
More than
just an engaging rock track, this song marks a significant moment in the
writing dynamics of the band's core members, Mick Jagger and Keith
Richards.
Below is info on this song as well as a free chord sheet, acoustic demo and more. If you'd like to purchase full lesson the fill tutorial it is also available for a small fee.
Rolling Stones Under My Thumb
Under My Thumb was created by the Rolling Stones way back in 1966 when it was part of their album called "Aftermath."
Even though it wasn't released as a single in the UK or US, it's still one of the most loved songs by the Rolling Stones. It has a long history of being performed live and is very important culturally.
Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, who started the Rolling Stones and wrote most of their songs, wrote this song together.
It talks about things like relationships and power, which were common themes in their songwriting at that time.
Even though it wasn't a hit single, the song got played a lot on the radio, and people still really like it today. The Rolling Stones have played it at many of their concerts, and it's usually on their setlists.
Song Meaning
The song "Under My Thumb" is about a relationship where one person is possessive and controlling. The singer talks about how a woman used to trouble him but now he feels like he has control over her.
Some people see the song as a triumph over a difficult relationship, but others think it's about dominance.
This caused a lot of talk when the song came out, especially in the 1960s when people were questioning traditional ideas about how men and women should act in relationships.
The song was controversial because it seemed to show women being controlled by men, but it can also be seen as commenting on power in relationships in general.
Unique Instrumentation & Songwriting
Under My Thumb has some interesting musical elements. It includes exotic instruments like marimbas, which are like large xylophones.
Brian Jones, one of the founding members of the Rolling Stones, played the marimba, and this gave the song a unique sound. This makes the song stand out and is something rock guitar musicians find fascinating.
The track also shows how Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, who wrote the song, changed in their songwriting. They began as aspiring songwriters, looking up to others.
But when songs like "Under My Thumb" became successful, they started to believe in their own songwriting abilities and became more confident.
Under My Thumb
Chords, Lyrics, Rhythm Tips, Tutorials
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Under My Thumb Chords
In a more upbeat sense, "Under My Thumb" provides ample learning material for rock guitar musicians.
With Richards' unique open G tuning and the iconic marimba lines from Brian Jones, it offers an exciting opportunity to delve into innovative rock compositions.
My version here does not include open tuning.
- Drop D Tuning: No
- Capo: No
- Rhythm: down down up down up down up and repeat
- Picking: Yes
- Chords: Gbm, E, D, A, B7
Under My Thumb Lyrics
People have different opinions about the song "Under My Thumb." Some critics like the catchy music and how well it's played, but they feel uneasy about the song's lyrics.
Despite the controversy, the song became a regular part of the Rolling Stones' live shows.
Fans and music experts often talk about "Under My Thumb" when they discuss the Rolling Stones' most memorable and important songs.
Musically, it's seen as a piece that shows how skilled and adaptable the band is.
The song is not only about music; it also gives us a glimpse into how men and women's roles and power were viewed during its time.
The lyrics
about control and dominance in relationships make people think about
these important social issues.
Under my thumb
The girl who once had me down
Under my thumb
The girl who once pushed me around
It's down to me
The difference in the clothes she wears
Down to me, the change has come
She's under my thumb
And ain't it the truth babe?
Under my thumb
It's a squirmin' dog who's just had her day
Under my thumb
A girl who has just changed her ways
It's down to me
Yes it is
The way she does just what she's told down to me
The change has come
She's under my thumb
Ah, ah, say it's alright
Under my thumb
Is a Siamese cat of a girl
Under my thumb
She's the sweetest, hm, pet in the world
It's down to me
The way she talks when she's spoken to
Down to me, the change has come
She's under my thumb
Ah, take it easy babe
Yeah
It's down to me, oh yeah
The way she talks when she's spoken to
Down to me, the change has come
She's under my thumb
Yeah, it feels alright
Under my thumb
Her eyes are just kept to herself
Under my thumb, well I
I can still look at someone else
It's down to me, oh, that's what I said
The way she talks when she's spoken to
Down to me, the change has come
She's under my thumb
Say, it's alright
Say it's all
Say it's all
Take it easy babe
Take it easy babe
Feels alright
Take it, take it easy babe
Under My Thumb Trivia
Here's an interesting fact about the song "Under My Thumb." It's connected to a famous free concert that went very wrong at Altamont Speedway in 1969.
The Rolling Stones were performing "Under My Thumb" when a violent incident happened in the crowd. This marked a sad and tragic moment for the counterculture movement of the time.
Also when they recorded the song, the Rolling Stones did something creative by adding the marimba, which is a unique musical instrument, to their rock music.
This made the song even more charming and appealing.
Under My Thumb Rolling Stones Covers
"Under My Thumb" by the Rolling Stones is a song that has been sung by many other artists over the years.
Famous musicians like Tina Turner, The Who, and Social Distortion did their versions. Even Delroy Wilson did a reggae version of it.
All these different versions show that the song is still popular and can be interpreted in various ways.
The different adaptations highlight how the song can be played in many different styles, making it interesting for rock guitar musicians.
Music Industry Impact
"Under My Thumb" may have received mixed reviews from critics, but it has made a big impact on the music world.
It's a great example of how the Rolling Stones mixed rock with other types of music like pop and punk, and they played a big part in making this kind of fusion popular.
Because the song is still loved today, it's safe to say that "Under My Thumb" is an important part of the Rolling Stones' legacy.
It has a unique sound and lyrics that caused controversy, showing how the band could blend music skill and strong emotions.
Summary
"In short, 'Rolling Stones Under My Thumb' is a song that was made during its time but is still loved today. It's appreciated by rock guitar players who enjoy its unique arrangement and by people who like to think about its deep lyrics.
This song will remain important as we explore the Rolling Stones' many songs. It has a rebellious spirit that's at the heart of rock 'n' roll, making the Rolling Stones' music timeless.
"Under My Thumb" is a song that's both daring in its story and creative in its music. It shows how the Rolling Stones pushed boundaries.
It also shows how the band changed in how they wrote songs, from looking outward to looking inward.
The song's ideas about society and its complex music keep people talking, from fans to experts.
This shows that 'Rolling Stones Under My Thumb' is more than just a song; it's a cultural piece that lasts through the years."
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Under My Thumb Rolling Stones Live Video
Below is a live performance of this iconic song by The Rolling Stones.
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