When you think of Mick Jagger, the first image that comes to mind is probably his unmistakable swagger — a strut across the stage, a flash of the hips, and an energy that seems endless. But in a candid moment, Mick once revealed that some of his most famous moves weren’t entirely his own invention. They were inspired — and taught — by none other than the “Queen of Rock ’n’ Roll” herself, Tina Turner.
A Friendship in Rhythm
Mick Jagger and Tina Turner’s paths crossed in the late 1960s, when The Rolling Stones and Ike & Tina Turner frequently appeared on the same bills. Backstage, their connection grew — not just as fellow performers, but as friends who shared a deep love for music and the art of performance.
Mick admired Tina’s command of the stage. She didn’t just sing; she moved in a way that made every lyric physical. Her hips, her arms, her stance — everything told the story alongside her voice. Watching her, Mick saw a dimension of performance he hadn’t fully explored.
Learning from the Master
According to Mick, Tina taught him how to loosen his hips, use his whole body, and let the music dictate movement. It wasn’t about rehearsing every step — it was about feeling the rhythm and letting it take over. Those lessons became part of his signature stage presence, blending with his own style until the two were inseparable.
Fans might never have guessed that the magnetic Jagger swagger had roots in Tina’s influence. Yet, in hindsight, the connection makes perfect sense: both performers share an ability to electrify a crowd, making even the largest stadium feel intimate.
A Legacy of Influence
Tina Turner influenced countless artists across genres, but her mentorship of Mick Jagger stands out because it shaped one of rock’s most iconic frontmen. Their friendship lasted decades, culminating in unforgettable joint performances, including the legendary 1985 Live Aid concert where they shared the stage for a high-energy rendition of “State of Shock.”
Still Wondering
Even now, fans debate just how much of Mick’s style came from Tina’s teachings. Was it just a few movements, or was it the entire philosophy of performing with total physical commitment? Whatever the measure, the fusion of their artistry created moments that have become part of rock history.
And perhaps that’s the real secret — not where the moves came from, but how they were transformed into something uniquely Mick Jagger.