Introduce

“Dirty Work” is a song by the legendary rock band The Rolling Stones. It was the title track of their 18th British and 20th American studio album, released in 1986. The song was written by band members Mick Jagger and Keith Richards and features Jagger’s distinctive lead vocals, Richards’ guitar riffs, and Charlie Watts’ solid drumming.

The lyrics of “Dirty Work” reflect themes of frustration and disillusionment. The narrator expresses dissatisfaction with someone who is not pulling their weight in a relationship or partnership. The song’s catchy melody and energetic rhythm capture the band’s signature rock and roll style, making it a standout track on the album.

“Dirty Work” received mixed reviews from critics upon its release, but it remains a fan favorite and a staple in The Rolling Stones’ live performances. The song’s edgy lyrics and the band’s raw musical energy continue to resonate with listeners, showcasing the enduring talent and creativity of one of the greatest rock bands in history.

Did You Know

This track serves as the title song of the album where the band appeared on the cover together for the first time since Their Satanic Majesties Request in 1967, captured by Annie Leibovitz. Despite their appearance, there was discord within the band; Mick Jagger and Keith Richards weren’t on good terms, and Jagger was dedicated to his solo career.

The song itself carries an undercurrent of anger, focusing on a woman who manipulates others to do her bidding without any cost. In Steely Dan’s 1972 track “Dirty Work,” a similar phrase is employed to describe deceit.

Interestingly, this was one of the rare Stones songs where Ron Wood received a writing credit. He contributed the guitar part that he played alongside Keith Richards.

The album’s release coincided with a controversy regarding explicit content in rock music. Several conservative groups, including the Parents Music Resource Center (PMRC), aimed to ban music they deemed offensive from radio and TV. The Rolling Stones managed to avoid being targeted by the PMRC, possibly due to their popularity among the members. Their record company ensured this by packaging the album in red plastic to conceal any potentially offensive language.

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Lyrics

Living high, sitting in the sun
Sit on your ass till your work is done
You lazy mother, your hands are clean
You pull the strings and you got the clout
There’s something filthy living in your mouth
Pushing your buttons you get away free

You let somebody do the dirty work
Find some loser, find some jerk
Find some dumb ass do it all for free
Let somebody do the dirty work
Find some loser, find some jerk
Find some greaseball, yeah

It’s beginning to make me angry
I’m beginning to hate it
You’re a user, you’re a user
I’m gonna shake you

Let somebody do the dirty work
I never see no grease on you baby
Never roll your sleeves up, do you, never baby
Let somebody do the dirty work
Find some fucker, find some jerk
Do it all, do it all for free

While you’re out having all the fun
They’ll take the blame when the trouble comes
Let somebody do it, do it

It’s beginning to make me angry
I’m beginning to hate you
You’re a user, I hate you
When you push you make me crazy

Let somebody do it all for free
Let somebody do the dirty work
Let somebody do it all for free
Let somebody do the dirty work
Let somebody do the dirty work
Pushing it harder, pushing it harder

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