Jagger's Solo Venture: The Rolling Stones' Internal Strife and Reconciliation
The Rolling Stones faced internal strife when Mick Jagger released his solo album She’s The Boss in 1985. Jagger sought a break from the band's dynamics and explored a pop sound on the album. Despite its commercial success, the album caused tension within the band due to Jagger's divergence from the Stones' traditional blues-based approach.
She’s The Boss featured guest appearances, including notable guitar solos by Jeff Beck, and showcased Jagger's preference for pop music of the time. The album's departure from the Stones' sound divided critics but resonated with mainstream audiences, yielding hits like “Just Another Night” and achieving platinum status.
Following the release of She’s The Boss, Jagger and Richards reunited to work on the Stones’ album Dirty Work. Richards, displeased with Jagger's solo endeavor, viewed it as a distraction from the band's work. The discord between the two musicians affected the album-making process, with Jagger's absence for promotion and drummer Charlie Watts battling addiction issues.
The aftermath of Jagger's solo venture led to a strained dynamic during the creation of Dirty Work. Jagger's decision to skip a Stones' tour in favor of recording his second solo album, Primitive Cool, further exacerbated tensions within the band. Richards expressed his disapproval through a diss track, setting the stage for a period of conflict between the bandmates.
Despite the rift caused by Jagger's solo projects, the band eventually reconciled, culminating in the release of the Stones' successful comeback album Steel Wheels in 1989. The turbulent period marked by She’s The Boss ultimately paved the way for the band to regroup and continue their musical journey.