On May 12, 1965, The Rolling Stones recorded their iconic rock anthem “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction,” inspired by an incendiary buzzsaw riff that guitarist Keith Richards captured on tape in his sleep. The track quickly became an international phenomenon, topping the U.S. charts for four weeks and transforming the band into global rock stars. The Library of Congress added the hit to the United States National Registry of Recordings in 2006, citing its rebellious nature, anti-commercialism stance, and driving guitar riff as defining characteristics. The song was the first of eight No. 1 Billboard hits released by The Rolling Stones, solidifying their status as one of the most influential rock bands in history.
The origins of the memorable riff to “Satisfaction” lie in Richards’ unconscious mind, as he recorded the three-note guitar riff and lyrics while half-asleep in the middle of the night. The guitarist had no memory of the incident, which led to the creation of one of the most famous licks in rock history. The Rolling Stones fleshed out the initial bare-bones refrain with lyrics from Mick Jagger, culminating in a song that encapsulated the feeling of alienation and rebellion prevalent at the time. The overt references to sexual frustration drew the ire of TV censors, who censored the raunchy lyrics on the show “Shindig!” Despite this, the song’s mythic reputation only grew.
Jagger described “Satisfaction” as having a catchy title and guitar riff that encapsulated the feeling of alienation that characterized the era. The song’s unique guitar sound, achieved through the use of a Gibson Fuzz Box, was original at the time and became a defining feature of the track. Richards had initially intended for a horn section to play the riff, but the Fuzz Box effect created a frantic, buzzing energy that resonated with listeners. The song’s success led to the creation of a new rock sound, with Gibson selling out of the gear by the end of the year. Artists like Otis Redding and Devo also recorded versions of “Satisfaction,” further solidifying its place in rock music history.
The success of “Satisfaction” taught Richards the value of teamwork in the creative process, as he realized the importance of accepting input from others. The song’s status as the defining hit of the summer of 1965 showcased the power of collaboration and experimentation in music. The Rolling Stones went on to achieve global superstardom, with a career spanning over six decades and a reputation as one of the greatest rock bands of all time. Richards’ unique guitar playing style and innovative use of the Fuzz Box have cemented his status as a rock legend, with Guitar.com praising his idiosyncratic, loose playing as something that is hard to copy but unforgettable. The lasting impact of “Satisfaction” continues to resonate with audiences, showcasing the enduring influence of The Rolling Stones in the world of rock music.
