Mick Jagger and Keith Richards Reveal Their Songwriting Evolution Ahead of 25th Album “Foreign Tongues”

The Rolling Stones are set to release their 25th studio album, Foreign Tongues, and band members Mick Jagger and Keith Richards have shared insights into their songwriting process. The album is scheduled for release next week, marking another milestone in the band’s illustrious career.

A New Approach to Songwriting

Jagger and Richards have evolved their studio practices over the years. No longer do they enter the studio without fully formed songs. Both in their 80s, they emphasize the importance of preparation, ensuring that they bring completed ideas to the recording process. Jagger stated that in the past, many bands would enter the studio with little more than hope, but he prefers to have songs ready before beginning the recording process.

He noted, “Before you come into an album, you have to have the songs done. In another world, you didn’t do that.” This shift in methodology has allowed the band to streamline their recording sessions, contrasting sharply with the lengthy, often chaotic sessions of the 1960s and 1970s. The production of Foreign Tongues took only weeks, a significant reduction compared to the months spent on previous albums.

The Songwriting Process

Jagger explained that he now records lyrics directly into his iPhone, a departure from his earlier practice of writing in a notebook. This modern approach allows him to capture ideas quickly and efficiently. Richards, on the other hand, prepares riffs and chord sequences to share with Jagger, emphasizing their collaborative dynamic.

Their co-writing sessions typically occur after periods of separation, where they come together to share ideas. Richards described this process as akin to assembling a jigsaw puzzle, where mistakes and gaps become evident and need to be filled. Jagger added that their collaboration often blends personal experiences with fictional elements, drawing inspiration from various sources, including literature and television.

Collaboration in the Studio

The recording process also involves guitarist Ronnie Wood, who plays a crucial role in fostering creativity within the group. Wood expressed his enthusiasm for supporting Jagger and Richards, stating that he enjoys “fueling the fire” of their songwriting partnership.

Richards noted that he prefers an organic approach to the guitar elements of their songs. He often plays snippets of music to see what resonates, allowing creativity to flow naturally. He remarked, “There is a moment where your fingers are being taken away somewhere you hadn’t intended but it’s sounding pretty damn good.”

Finalizing the Album

In the studio, Jagger takes an active role in the arrangement and mixing of tracks. He collaborates closely with drummer Steve Jordan, who replaced the late Charlie Watts. Jagger explained that he often spends time experimenting with beats and vocal lines, ensuring that everything fits together seamlessly.

He described his studio sessions with Jordan as lively, often involving movement and improvisation. “I go in and I just play piano and jump around and dance with Steve because I try out different beats and I sing,” he said.

The Rolling Stones’ Foreign Tongues is set to be released on July 10. As reported by www.mirror.co.uk.

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Published on 2026-07-02 22:28:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk