“Mick Jagger Reflects on The Kinks: The Foundation of Rock, Punk, and Alternative Music – A Tribute to the Davies Brothers and Their Lasting Influence on British Music History”
Mick Jagger on The Kinks: The Architects of Rock, Punk, and Alternative Music
When discussing the history of British rock music, there are few bands more iconic than The Rolling Stones. However, even Mick Jagger himself would be the first to acknowledge the profound influence of another legendary British band: The Kinks. In a candid reflection, Jagger opens up about how The Kinks were not only trailblazers in shaping rock but also the original architects of what would become punk and alternative rock, laying the groundwork for generations of musicians to follow.
“The Kinks were one of the most important bands to come out of Britain,” Jagger says. “Their sound, their spirit, their lyrics – they influenced so many bands, including us. They were among the first to capture that raw energy and emotional depth in a way that felt real, that felt like the voice of the people. We were inspired by them in so many ways.”
The Kinks: A Foundation for Rock and Beyond
Formed in 1963, The Kinks, led by the remarkable Davies brothers – Ray and Dave Davies – quickly became one of the most innovative and unique acts of the British Invasion. While The Rolling Stones were often focused on blues and rhythm-based rock ‘n’ roll, The Kinks were setting the stage for something entirely different. With their powerful guitar riffs, socially conscious lyrics, and distinctive sound, they revolutionized the landscape of rock music.
Jagger explains, “The Kinks had a sound that was unlike anything else at the time. They weren’t just writing love songs or pop hits – they were telling stories about British life, about class, about society. They were the first to capture that working-class sensibility and make it something people could relate to across the world. Ray’s lyrics were biting, clever, and socially aware – much more than what a lot of bands were doing back then.”
The Origins of Punk and Alternative Rock
What really set The Kinks apart, and what Jagger highlights as a key point in their legacy, is how they unknowingly laid the foundation for the punk and alternative movements. Though the band was never directly associated with punk in the late 70s, their aggressive, stripped-down sound and anti-establishment themes would eventually become central to the genre. Jagger points to their landmark track “You Really Got Me,” with its distorted, powerful riff, as a direct precursor to the raw energy of punk rock.
“The Kinks were one of the first bands to use that distorted guitar sound that became so central to punk rock later on,” Jagger says. “That song, ‘You Really Got Me,’ it was revolutionary. It was loud, it was in-your-face, and it was so simple, yet so effective. That’s what punk ended up being – raw, energetic, and all about attitude. The Kinks were definitely ahead of their time in that regard.”
But it wasn’t just their music that influenced punk and alternative rock. The Kinks’ whole ethos, their rebellious spirit, and their willingness to embrace the unconventional were traits that punk bands like the Sex Pistols and The Clash would adopt and build upon.
The Davies Brothers: Talent Beyond Compare
Of course, at the heart of The Kinks’ success was the undeniable talent of the Davies brothers. Ray Davies, the band’s lead songwriter and frontman, was a master at blending sharp social commentary with captivating melodies. His ability to weave together themes of British identity, working-class struggles, and the absurdities of everyday life into hit songs like “Lola,” “Waterloo Sunset,” and “Victoria” set him apart as one of rock’s greatest songwriters.
Jagger speaks fondly of Ray’s contribution to the world of music: “Ray Davies was a genius. His songwriting was a major influence on me personally, and I know a lot of people in the business who feel the same way. His songs were so relatable, and yet they had this unique, almost theatrical quality to them. He wasn’t afraid to push boundaries, and that’s something that I really admire.”
Meanwhile, Dave Davies, the band’s guitarist, added a raw energy and distinct sound to The Kinks. Known for his fiery guitar playing, Dave’s aggressive style on tracks like “You Really Got Me” and “All Day and All of the Night” gave the band an edge that was hard to replicate.
“Dave was incredible too,” Jagger reflects. “He brought this raw, unrefined energy to the music. His guitar sound became iconic – it was grittier, more powerful, and that’s what really gave The Kinks their edge.”
The Kinks’ Lasting Legacy
In many ways, The Kinks set the stage for the explosive growth of rock music in the 1970s and beyond. Their contributions to rock, punk, and alternative music are immeasurable, and Jagger is quick to point out how their influence continues to be felt today.
“When you look at the rock bands that came after us, from punk to alt-rock, you can trace a lot of it back to The Kinks,” Jagger says. “Their sound, their energy, their sense of rebellion – all of that became a huge part of what defined rock music in the late 70s and 80s. Bands like The Clash, The Jam, even Oasis – they all owe a debt to The Kinks.”
The Rolling Stones, of course, remain one of the most famous rock bands in history, but Jagger is clear about his admiration for The Kinks’ enduring influence. “They were one of the best, without a doubt. The Kinks helped shape British rock history, and we, along with countless others, have benefited from the path they paved.”
Conclusion: The Kinks as Pillars of British Music History
Mick Jagger’s reflections on The Kinks serve as a reminder of the profound impact the band has had on rock music, from their pioneering guitar sounds to their social commentary, to their pioneering role in the development of punk and alternative rock. The Kinks were more than just a great band – they were the foundation on which many of today’s greatest rock bands were built.
Ray and Dave Davies, with their unmatched songwriting and musicianship, helped create a legacy that transcended decades and genres. The Rolling Stones may be the face of rock ‘n’ roll, but The Kinks, as Jagger attests, were the true innovators who sparked the fire for the future of rock. Their contributions will forever remain a cornerstone of British music history, shaping the sound of generations to come.
