Album Information Section

Album Title: Tattoo You

Artist: The Rolling Stones

Original Release Date: August 18, 1981

Label: Unknown Label

Genres: Rock, Blues Rock

Track Listing

• 1. Start Me Up (3:33)
• 2. Hang Fire (2:21)
• 3. Slave (4:58)
• 4. Little T & A (3:24)
• 5. Black Limousine (3:34)
• 6. Neighbours (3:34)
• 7. Worried About You (5:18)
• 8. Tops (3:48)
• 9. Heaven (4:23)
• 10. No Use in Crying (3:29)
• 11. Waiting on a Friend (4:35)

Recording Information

Tattoo You was primarily recorded at the legendary Compass Point Studios, located in Nassau, Bahamas. The recording sessions took place from 1979 to 1981, a period marked by a blend of spontaneity and meticulous craftsmanship. The production of the album was overseen by the renowned team of The Rolling Stones alongside their long-time collaborator Chris Kimsey, who served as both producer and engineer.

One notable aspect of the recording process was the use of various recording techniques that contributed to the album’s sound. The band employed a mix of live takes and studio overdubs, allowing for a raw yet polished finish that became a hallmark of the album. They also utilized the iconic Rolling Stones Mobile Studio, enabling them to capture high-quality sound in diverse locations. This approach gave Tattoo You a distinct sonic character, merging the energy of live performances with studio precision.

Interestingly, much of the album’s material was drawn from outtakes and unfinished songs from previous sessions, showcasing the band’s ability to take discarded ideas and craft them into cohesive tracks. The process of assembling these songs into a full album was a testament to the band’s creative resilience and adaptability.

Band Context

By the time of Tattoo You’s release, The Rolling Stones were in a transformative phase. The band had experienced various highs and lows throughout the 1970s, including the departure of founding member Brian Jones in 1969 and the tumultuous years following the release of their 1978 album Some Girls. The lineup during the recording of Tattoo You included Mick Jagger (vocals, guitar), Keith Richards (guitar, vocals), Charlie Watts (drums), and Ronnie Wood (guitar). Bill Wyman, though still part of the band, was less involved in the creative process during this period, which marked a shift in the band’s dynamic.

Prior to Tattoo You, the Stones had solidified their reputation as rock legends, but they were also grappling with the pressures of maintaining relevance in a rapidly evolving music landscape. The late 1970s and early 1980s saw the rise of punk and new wave, prompting the band to adapt their sound while retaining their core rock identity. Tattoo You emerged as a commercial success and critical favorite, revitalizing their standing in the music industry.

Track Commentary

The album opens with “Start Me Up,” a track that became one of the band’s most iconic songs. Its infectious riff and upbeat energy encapsulate the band’s rock ethos, and it later became synonymous with various advertising campaigns, further cementing its place in popular culture. Following this, “Hang Fire” presents a punchy rhythm and clever lyrics, showcasing the band’s ability to blend rock with social commentary.

Tracks like “Slave” and “Worried About You” delve into deeper themes, exploring facets of desire and introspection, while maintaining a robust sonic backdrop. “Little T & A,” sung by Richards, adds a playful element to the album, displaying the band’s characteristic wit and charm. The song “Waiting on a Friend” closes the album on a reflective note, characterized by its mellow vibe and poignant lyrics, highlighting the band’s versatility and emotional range.

Tattoo You received positive critical reception upon its release, with many reviewers praising its cohesion and the band’s performances. Over the years, individual tracks have gained a legacy of their own, with “Start Me Up” and “Waiting on a Friend” frequently appearing in the band’s live sets and playlists. The album is often regarded as a high point in the band’s discography, demonstrating their ability to evolve while remaining true to their roots.