About the Song
“Jumpin’ Jack Flash” by The Rolling Stones is a rock ‘n’ roll masterpiece that roars with electrifying energy and gritty swagger. Released as a single in 1968, this track marked a return to the band’s bluesy roots while showcasing their ability to craft a sound that was both raw and timeless. It quickly became one of The Rolling Stones’ most iconic songs, reaching No. 1 on the UK Singles Chart and climbing to No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States.
From the moment the opening riff bursts through the speakers, you know you’re in for something extraordinary. That riff, crafted by Keith Richards, is one of the most memorable in rock history. Paired with Charlie Watts’ pounding drums and Bill Wyman’s driving bass, the music feels like a relentless force, perfectly embodying the rebellious spirit of the song. Mick Jagger’s vocals are full of attitude, delivering lyrics that feel defiant and triumphant all at once.
The origins of “Jumpin’ Jack Flash” are as colorful as the Stones themselves. Keith Richards has often explained that the title was inspired by his gardener, Jack Dyer, whose heavy footsteps woke him up one morning. Richards turned to Jagger and quipped, “It’s Jumpin’ Jack,” which sparked the idea for the song. Despite the whimsical backstory, the track itself carries a sense of mystique and resilience, with lyrics like “I was born in a crossfire hurricane” and “But it’s all right now, in fact, it’s a gas!” The song exudes the feeling of overcoming life’s hardships with strength and flair.
“Jumpin’ Jack Flash” also stands out for its production. Recorded during the band’s sessions with producer Jimmy Miller, the song marked the beginning of what many consider the Stones’ golden era. The use of acoustic guitar layered with electric elements added texture to the track, giving it a gritty yet polished feel.
Over the decades, “Jumpin’ Jack Flash” has become a staple of The Rolling Stones’ live performances, thrilling audiences around the world. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its power as a rock anthem. Whether you’re discovering it for the first time or revisiting it as a fan, the song never fails to ignite a spark.
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Lyrics: Jumpin’ Jack Flash
I was born in a crossfire hurricane
And I howled at my ma in the driving rainBut it’s all right now, in fact, it’s a gas
But it’s all right, I’m Jumpin’ Jack Flash
It’s a gas, gas, gasI was raised by a toothless, bearded hag
I was schooled with a strap right across my backBut it’s all right now, in fact, it’s a gas
But it’s all right, I’m Jumpin’ Jack Flash
It’s a gas, gas, gasI was drowned, I was washed up and left for dead
I fell down to my feet and I saw they bled, yeah yeah
I frowned at the crumbs of a crust of bread, yeah yeah yeah
I was crowned with a spike right through my head, fuck my headBut it’s all right now, in fact, it’s a gas
But it’s all right, I’m Jumpin’ Jack Flash
It’s a gas, gas, gasJumpin’ Jack Flash, it’s a gas
Jumpin’ Jack Flash, it’s a gas
Jumpin’ Jack Flash, it’s a gas
Jumpin’ Jack Flash, it’s a gas
Jumpin’ Jack Flash, it’s a gas
Jumpin’ Jack Flash, it’s a gas