No. 55: ‘Sweet Black Angel’ – Top 100 Rolling Stones Songs

It wasn't often that the Rolling Stones engaged in political subject matter in their songs, however this track from 'Exile On Main Street' would cover just such territory.

Inspired by University of California professor and civil rights activist Angela Davis, 'Sweet Black Angel' is a compelling mix of the Stones brand of rock and roll and calypso music, not necessarily two things you would associate with each other.

Focused largely on Jagger's adopted, Caribbean-influenced dialect and vocals alongside Keith Richards' guitar, it is actually the percussion that helps give the song its swagger.

Listen to the Rolling Stones Perform 'Sweet Black Angel'