Unleashing the Power of The Rolling Stones: How One Song Transformed Tom Waits’ Performance Style
Tom Waits is a force of nature, a musical enigma who defies categorization. He blends high poetry with raw, street-level grit, creating a sound that is uniquely his own. His ability to absorb and reinterpret influences from a variety of sources is what sets him apart as a truly original artist.
In a recent interview, Waits shared his admiration for The Rolling Stones’ classic album, Exile on Main Street. He specifically pointed out the track “I Just Want To See His Face,” citing Mick Jagger’s falsetto vocals as a major inspiration. Waits was so captivated by Jagger’s vocal style that he made the bold decision to quit smoking in order to achieve a similar sound.
Waits went on to incorporate this newfound vocal technique into his own music, producing electrifying performances reminiscent of Jagger at his best. Despite his admiration for other artists like Prince and Josh Homme, Waits firmly believes that Jagger’s falsetto prowess is unmatched.
For Waits, Exile on Main Street is more than just an album – it’s a musical masterpiece, a “watering hole” where listeners can quench their thirst for raw, unadulterated rock ‘n’ roll. The album’s grit and energy, combined with Keith Richards’ stellar guitar work, make it a standout in the Stones’ discography.
Waits draws parallels between Exile on Main Street and other legendary albums that have influenced his own work, such as Leonard Cohen’s I’m Your Man, James Brown’s Startime, and Captain Beefheart’s Trout Mask Replica. Each of these records holds a special place in Waits’ heart, contributing to his eclectic and ever-evolving musical style.
To see Waits pay homage to The Rolling Stones, check out the video of him performing “Little Red Lobster” with the band below. It’s a rare and unforgettable moment that showcases the enduring influence of rock ‘n’ roll legends like Waits and The Stones.
