Cinema VinesRock icon Mick Jagger, still 82, sat down for an unfiltered interview with the Hindustan Times to discuss the Rolling Stones’ latest release, "Foreign Tongues," their 25th studio album. The conversation, which ran through the album’s conception, its sonic direction and the band’s enduring energy, offers a rare glimpse into how a veteran group continues to evolve while staying true to their roots.
Jagger explained that the new record was born out of a burst of enthusiasm and a clear vision of where the Stones were mentally and musically at the time. "The album is obviously where you are more or less currently in your head, musically and lyrically," he said. The band recorded 12 to 13 fresh tracks in London, ultimately selecting ten that best represented their current sound. This process, he noted, highlights their work ethic, passion for blues and willingness to experiment with country, pop and dance influences.
While some critics have described the album as a “slick” departure from the raw, muddy textures of earlier work, Jagger defended the polished production as a deliberate choice. "The thing about this kind of popular music is you have to do it with a lot of enthusiasm and energy," he said. He acknowledged that the Stones still retain their signature imperfections but also believe there is room for cleaner, well‑rounded tracks that avoid being overly rough.
When asked how the band manages to sound both vintage and modern, Jagger emphasized that nostalgia alone is not enough. He pointed out that the sonic clarity of today’s recordings differs markedly from the 1970s era that many fans cherish. "If we put on a track from Exile on Main Street, we might love that song, but if we listen to it sonically, it would sound really muddy compared to how it sounds now," he remarked. The Stones aim to capture the spirit of their past while embracing contemporary production techniques that make the music clearer and more accessible.
Overall, Jagger’s interview paints a picture of a band that refuses to mellow down. Their new album, with its blend of bluesy roots and modern polish, demonstrates that the Rolling Stones are still actively shaping their legacy, proving that age is no barrier to creative vitality.
