THE 1000 BEST SONGS IN THE WORLD EVER.

662-Rolling Stones-Jumpin’ Jack Flash.

1968-Number 1 single.

Best Bit-At 0.16.The most famous song in the world inspired by a gardener.

The Rolling Stones (see also best songs 933-452-160 and 77) were formed in London, England, in 1962, the classic line up (had they all been together at the same time) would have been Brian Jones (1942-1969) Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Charlie Watts, Bill Wyman, Mick Taylor and Ronnie Wood. Jones died a month after leaving the band, after being replaced by Mick Taylor. When Taylor departed in 1974, he was replaced by Ronnie Wood. Bill Wyman left to further his solo career in 1993, and his place was taken by Darryl Jones. Between 1962-1963 there were seven other official members, but Jagger and Richards took control of the band after Andrew Loog Oldham was appointed the groups manager in 1963.

‘Jumpin’ Jack Flash’ gave the Rolling Stones their seventh UK Number 1 single, in total they have achieved eight, all of which were in the 1960’s.Keith Richards has stated that he and Mick wrote the lyrics while staying at Richards’ country house, where they were awoken one morning by the sound of the gardener Jack Dyer walking past the window. When Jagger asked what the noise was, Richards responded,’Oh that’s Jack, that’s jumpin’ Jack.’As for the rest of the lyrics Jagger said,’It’s about having a hard time, and getting out. Just a metaphor for getting out of all the acid things.’

In his autobiography Bill Wyman has claimed it was he who came up with the songs distinctive main guitar riff on a piano, without receiving credit, he also claimed he wrote the bass line for ‘Miss You,’ (see also best songs 160) also receiving no recognition. Keith Richards has said, that of all the guitar riffs he has written, this is his favourite.

‘I was born in a cross-fire hurricane, and I howled at the morning driving rain.’