So Young

The Zoo Crew is spinning "So Young" by The Rolling Stones, a track from the deluxe edition of their 1978 album Some Girls, and the Zoo Freaks are loving this gritty, playful gem. This song, recorded during the Some Girls sessions at Pathé Marconi Studios in Paris, captures the band’s raw energy and cheeky humor. According to Rolling Stones Data, "So Young" tells the story of a narrator tempted by a young girl he meets in a movie theater, with Mick Jagger’s lyrics painting a vivid picture of her awkward charm—zits, messy hair, and all. The song’s narrator humorously pleads for divine help to resist temptation, especially after buying her a pair of boots that spark his excitement. Multiple versions of the song exist, including a 1978 recording enhanced with Chuck Leavell’s piano in 1994 for the "Love Is Strong" single and a 2011 version with new Jagger vocals for the Some Girls deluxe reissue. A rare piano version was also released as a download in 2011, showcasing the band’s versatility.

The song’s vibe fits the Some Girls era, where the Stones leaned into punk and disco influences while staying true to their rock roots. In a 1978 interview with Rolling Stone, Jagger reflected on the album’s creation, noting how his time in New York City gave him a “musical shot in the arm” that infused the record with punk’s raw edge. "So Young" didn’t make the original album but surfaced on bootlegs for years, delighting hardcore fans. The New Yorker described it as a “superb moment of nasty, funny rock ‘n’ roll,” perfectly at home with the album’s lascivious title track. Its playful yet provocative tone, with Jagger’s elongated vowels and sly delivery, makes it a fan favorite for those who dig the Stones’ edgier side.

The Rolling Stones formed in London in 1962, emerging from a shared love of blues and early rock ‘n’ roll. Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, childhood friends who reconnected as teenagers, bonded over their passion for American blues artists like Muddy Waters and Chuck Berry. They joined forces with Brian Jones, a multi-instrumentalist who initially led the band, along with bassist Bill Wyman and drummer Charlie Watts. Their early gigs in London’s club scene, particularly at the Crawdaddy Club, built a fervent following. Manager Andrew Loog Oldham shaped their bad-boy image, positioning them as the rebellious counterpoint to The Beatles. Their first single, a cover of Chuck Berry’s “Come On” in 1963, cracked the UK charts, and by 1964, their original songs, penned by Jagger and Richards, began defining their gritty, rhythm-driven sound. Over six decades, the band has sold over 250 million albums, cementing their legacy as rock’s most enduring act.

Stay connected with The Rolling Stones through their Facebook, Instagram, and X accounts, where they share tour updates, archival photos, and more. Fans can dive deeper at Mick Jagger’s official site, Keith Richards’ official site, Ronnie Wood’s official site, and Bill Wyman’s official site. For fan communities, check out The Brian Jones Fan Club or explore The Complete Works Website by Nico Zentgraf for a detailed chronological database. The Rolling Stones Complete Recording Sessions by Martin Elliott is another great resource for Zoo Freaks craving more Stones history.