From Guitar World · · 1m 20s
Mick Jagger almost played harmonica on Joe Satriani's album
The Rolling Stones frontman casually offered to contribute to Satriani's 1995 record, but the guitarist ended up playing the part himself instead.
In brief
The Rolling Stones frontman casually offered to contribute to Satriani's 1995 record, but the guitarist ended up playing the part himself instead. Sometimes the best creative decision is trusting your own instincts over a famous collaboration opportunity. Originally reported by Guitar World.
Backstage offer from a legend
While the Rolling Stones played Oakland Stadium in the mid-1990s, Mick Jagger casually offered to play harmonica on Joe Satriani's upcoming album during a backstage conversation.
“Oh, Joe, if you want some harp playing on your record, just give me a call.”
Finding the right song
Satriani initially considered having Jagger play on Cool #9 and Luminous Flesh Giants, but realized those tracks weren't suited for harmonica.
Writing a custom track
Satriani wrote a new song called S.M.F. specifically for Jagger and sent him an ADAT demo while the Stones were touring in South America and Australia.
Producer suggests a change
When recording engineer Glyn Johns heard about the plan, he suggested Satriani play the harmonica part himself instead, which he had done live before.
“Well, why don't you just play it?”
The new version wins out
Satriani's own harmonica performance on S.M.F. sounded better than Jagger's demo, so he kept his version instead of using the Stones frontman's contribution.
“We tried it, and it worked out fine.”
An awkward phone call
Satriani had to call Jagger and politely decline his harmonica contribution, describing the situation as very embarrassing.
“Thanks, but no thanks.”
The big picture
Sometimes the best creative decision is trusting your own instincts over a famous collaboration opportunity.
