About the Song
“19th Nervous Breakdown” by The Rolling Stones is a quintessential rock anthem that encapsulates the raw energy and biting wit that defined the band’s early success. Released in 1966, the song became an instant hit, reaching No. 2 on both the Billboard Hot 100 in the U.S. and the UK Singles Chart. Its driving beat, edgy lyrics, and dynamic performance capture the rebellious spirit of the 1960s.
Written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, “19th Nervous Breakdown” is a sharp commentary on societal pressures and personal frustrations. The lyrics describe a tumultuous relationship with a woman who seems to be crumbling under the weight of her privileged but discontented life. Jagger’s clever wordplay and sardonic tone create a vivid portrait of emotional unraveling, with lines like “Your mother who neglected you owes a million dollars tax” delivering both humor and critique.
Musically, the song is a powerhouse. Keith Richards’ unforgettable guitar riff, paired with Brian Jones’ rhythmic guitar work, creates a relentless and driving sound. Charlie Watts’ steady drumming and Bill Wyman’s pulsating bassline add depth and urgency, while Jagger’s dynamic vocals bring the song’s tension to life. The distinctive bass slide leading into the chorus has become one of the track’s signature features, adding a playful yet edgy element.
“19th Nervous Breakdown” reflects The Rolling Stones’ knack for blending rock and roll with social commentary. Its relatable themes of stress and dissatisfaction resonated with the youth of the 1960s, who were grappling with rapid cultural and societal changes. The song’s energy and irreverence made it an anthem for a generation that was ready to question the status quo.
Even today, “19th Nervous Breakdown” remains a fan favorite and a testament to The Rolling Stones’ enduring legacy as one of the greatest rock bands of all time. Its wit, energy, and timeless appeal ensure its place as a rock classic.
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Lyrics: 19th Nervous Breakdown
You’re the kind of person you meet at certain dismal, dull affairs
Center of a crowd, talking much too loud, running up and down the stairs
Well, it seems to me that you have seen too much in too few years
And though you’ve tried you just can’t hide your eyes are edged with tearsYou better stop, look around
Here it comes, here it comes, here it comes, here it comes
Here comes your nineteenth nervous breakdownWhen you were a child you were a treated kind but you were never brought up right
You were always spoiled with a thousand toys but still you cried all night
Your mother who neglected you owes a million dollars tax
And your father’s still perfecting ways of making sealing waxYou better stop, look around
Here it comes, here it comes, here it comes, here it comes
Here comes your nineteenth nervous breakdownOh, who’s to blame
That girl’s just insane
Well, nothing I do don’t seem to work
It only seems to make the matters worse
Oh, pleaseYou were still in school when you had that fool who really messed your mind
And after that you turned your back on treating people kind
On our first trip I tried so hard to rearrange your mind
But after awhile I realized you were disarranging mineYou better stop, look around
Here it comes, here it comes, here it comes, here it comes
Here comes your nineteenth nervous breakdownOh, who’s to blame
That girl’s just insane
Well, nothing I do don’t seem to work
It only seems to make the matters worse
Oh, pleaseWhen you were a child you were treated kind but you were never brought up right
You were always spoiled with a thousand toys but still you cried all night
Your mother who neglected you owes a million dollars tax
And you father’s still perfecting ways of making sealing waxYou better stop, look around
Here it comes
Here comes your nineteenth nervous breakdown
Here comes your nineteenth nervous breakdown
Here comes your nineteenth nervous breakdown
Here comes your nineteenth nervous breakdown
Here comes your nineteenth nervous breakdown
Here comes your nineteenth nervous breakdown