About the song Brown Sugar
Brown Sugar, released in 1971 on the album Sticky Fingers, is a complex and controversial song by The Rolling Stones. Its blend of bluesy rock, sexual innuendo, and references to slavery has sparked debate and discussion for decades, solidifying its place as a cultural touchstone despite its problematic aspects.
Music:
- Energetic and Raw:Â The song is built upon a driving blues-rock rhythm, fueled by Charlie Watts’s drumming and Bill Wyman’s bass. Keith Richards’s guitar work adds a layer of rawness and energy, while Mick Jagger’s vocals are powerful and suggestive.
- Catchy Riff:Â The song’s iconic opening riff is instantly recognizable and has become synonymous with The Rolling Stones’ sound. It’s simple yet effective, adding a memorable hook that draws the listener in.
- Dynamic Arrangement:Â The song’s arrangement is deceptively simple, relying on a strong rhythm section and powerful vocals to drive the song forward. However, there are subtle nuances and instrumental flourishes that add depth and texture to the overall sound.
Lyrics:
- Sexuality and Desire:Â The lyrics are overtly sexual, filled with suggestive imagery and innuendo. This theme is further emphasized by the song’s title, “Brown Sugar,” which is a slang term for heroin and can also be interpreted as a reference to Black women.
- Historical References:Â The lyrics contain references to slavery, specifically mentioning a “gold coast slave ship bound for cotton fields” and a “scarred old slaver” who whips women. These references are jarring and controversial, raising questions about the song’s message and intent.
- Ambiguity and Open to Interpretation:Â While the lyrics are undeniably inflammatory, there are varying interpretations of their meaning. Some see them as a celebration of sexual freedom and desire, while others see them as racist and exploitative. The ambiguity of the lyrics is part of what makes the song so controversial.
Cultural Impact:
- Enduring Popularity:Â Despite its controversial nature, “Brown Sugar” remains one of The Rolling Stones’ most popular songs. It has been covered by numerous artists, featured in countless films and television shows, and continues to be a staple of their live performances.
- Cultural Touchstone:Â The song’s iconic status has cemented its place in popular culture. Its imagery, lyrics, and music have been referenced and reinterpreted in various forms of art and media.
- Controversy and Debate:Â The song’s problematic aspects continue to provoke discussion and debate. Critics argue that it is racist and exploitative, while others defend it as a product of its time and argue that its artistic merit outweighs its offensive elements.
Further Exploration:
- Live Performances:Â Witnessing “Brown Sugar” performed live adds a new dimension to its energy and intensity. The raw power of the song is amplified in a live setting, making it a highlight of their shows.
- Cover Versions:Â Numerous artists have covered “Brown Sugar,” offering their own interpretations of the song. Some notable covers include versions by Guns N’ Roses, The Black Crowes, and Lenny Kravitz.
- Documentaries: The song has been featured in various documentaries, including Crossfire Hurricane and Shine a Light, offering insights into its creation and cultural impact.
Listen to Brown Sugar
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Video Brown Sugar
Brown Sugar Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
Yeah, gold coast slave ship bound for cotton fieldsSold in a market down in New OrleansScarred old slaver know he’s doin’ alrightHear him whip the women just around midnightBrown sugarHow come you taste so good?Brown sugarJust like a young girl should, ah yeahYeah, drums beating, cold English blood runs hotLady of the house wonderin’ where it’s gonna stopHouse boy knows that he’s doing alrightYou shoulda heard him just around midnightBrown sugarHow come you taste so good?Brown sugarJust like a young girl shouldAw, yeah-yeah-yeahAh, get down to the ground, brown sugarHow come you taste so good?Ah, get down, get down, brown sugarJust like a young girl shouldI bet your mama was a tent show queenAnd all her boyfriends were sweet 16I’m no schoolboy but I know what I likeYou shoulda heard me just around midnightBrown sugarHow come you taste so good?Ah, come down, brown sugarJust like a young girl shouldAh, come down, come down, brown sugarHow come you taste so good?Ah, come down, get down, brown sugarMovin’ around, come on, movin’ aroundAh, get down to the ground, brown sugarJust livin’ all night for it, lay it all downAh, get down on your knees, brown sugarHow come, how come… woah!Ah, come down, down, down, down, down, down, downWoah!Ah, how come you taste so good, good?Ah, come to the ground, now childrenHow come you taste so good?Come to the ground, now childrenHow come you taste so good?That’s itWas that good?