Live By The Sword

The Zoo Crew is spinning "Live By The Sword" by The Rolling Stones from their 2023 album Hackney Diamonds, and the Zoo Freaks are loving this gritty track. This song is a standout for its nostalgic punch, featuring the classic rhythm section of drummer Charlie Watts and bassist Bill Wyman, who returned for this recording after leaving the band in 1993. Recorded in two phases—first in 2019 with Watts, who passed away in 2021, and later in 2023 with producer Andrew Watt and co-producer Don Was—the track is a tribute to Watts’ legacy. It also includes Elton John on piano, though some fans, as noted on fandom wikis, wish his honky-tonk keys were more prominent. Lyrically, the song delivers a cautionary tale about reaping what you sow—lines like “If you live by the sword, gonna die by the sword” warn of the consequences of a violent or selfish life, giving it a raw, bluesy edge that feels quintessentially Stones.

Another layer of trivia comes from the song’s production and reception. Rolling Stone called Hackney Diamonds a “vibrant and cohesive record,” and “Live By The Sword” embodies that energy with its retro swagger. On Reddit, fans rank it highly, with one user declaring it a “top 1 Stones track” for its “proper Stones swagger.” The track’s recording process was unique, blending Watts’ 2019 drum tracks with Wyman’s bass, creating a bridge to the band’s mid-70s to early-90s sound. Mick Jagger’s vocals, though heavily processed as noted in a Tracking Angle review, still carry the song’s defiant spirit. The band’s official X post on October 20, 2023, celebrated the album’s release, asking fans which tracks were “rocking” them, and “Live By The Sword” was a frequent favorite among Zoo Freak-esque audiences.

The Rolling Stones formed in London in 1962, sparked by a shared love of blues and R&B. Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, childhood friends who reconnected over music, teamed up with Brian Jones, whose vision for a blues band set the group’s early direction. Inspired by American artists like Muddy Waters—whose song “Rollin’ Stone” inspired their name—they started gigging in small clubs, honing their raw, rebellious sound. Charlie Watts and Bill Wyman soon joined, solidifying the lineup. Their early days were marked by relentless touring and a string of cover songs before they began writing originals like “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” in 1965, which catapulted them to global fame. Their gritty, anti-establishment vibe, as detailed in countless interviews on sites like Rolling Stone, made them icons of the 60s counterculture, a spirit that still echoes in tracks like “Live By The Sword.”

Stay connected with The Rolling Stones through their Facebook, Instagram, and X accounts, where they share tour updates, behind-the-scenes content, and fan interactions. For Zoo Freaks wanting to dive deeper, fan communities thrive online. The IORR (It’s Only Rock’n Roll) fan site offers forums, tour news, and trading posts for Stones memorabilia. On Reddit’s r/rollingstones, fans discuss everything from track rankings to live show experiences. Facebook groups like Rolling Stones Fans are also buzzing with devotees sharing concert photos and debating setlists, perfect for any Zoo Freak looking to join the tribe.