About the song
The Rolling Stones’ 1965 hit, “The Last Time,” marked a turning point for the band. While they’d already established themselves as bad boys of British rock with blues covers, “The Last Time” was their first original song released as an A-single in the UK. It became a chart-topping success, solidifying their place as rock and roll royalty.
A Song with Gospel Roots:
There’s a fascinating backstory to “The Last Time.” Although credited to Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, the song’s chorus borrows heavily from a traditional gospel song called “This May Be the Last Time,” recorded by the Staple Singers in 1954. The Stones transformed the original’s spiritual message into a rock and roll plea, turning it into a desperate plea to a lover.
Themes of Ultimatums and Rebellion:
The lyrics of “The Last Time” are a potent mix of desperation and defiance. The singer delivers a series of ultimatums to a cheating or neglectful partner: “This could be the last time / This could be the last time.” It’s a raw portrayal of a relationship on the brink, with the raw energy typical of the Stones.
However, there’s also a subtle layer of rebellion. The song can be seen as a rejection of societal expectations of love and relationships. The Stones, known for their bad-boy image, were challenging the status quo with their music, and “The Last Time” reflects that rebellious spirit.
Musical Innovation:
While the chorus borrows from gospel, the rest of the song is pure Rolling Stones. The driving beat, courtesy of Charlie Watts on drums, and the iconic distorted guitar riff by Keith Richards, laid the foundation for the band’s signature sound. Mick Jagger’s vocals are a perfect blend of sneer and snarl, perfectly capturing the song’s urgency.
A Legacy of Influence:
“The Last Time” stands as a testament to the Rolling Stones’ ability to take inspiration from various genres and create something entirely new. It became a rock and roll anthem, covered by countless artists and influencing generations of musicians.
So, “The Last Time” is more than just a catchy rock song. It’s a story of borrowing, rebellion, and musical innovation, all wrapped up in a three-minute package that continues to resonate with listeners today.