Mick Jagger's Life Before The Rolling Stones: Career Paths and Early Influences

Mick Jagger, the iconic frontman of The Rolling Stones, is one of the most recognizable and influential figures in rock music. However, his journey to superstardom was not always a straight line. Let's explore the various jobs and activities he pursued before he became one of the world's most famous musicians.

Jobs and Studies Before The Rolling Stones

Mick Jagger's life before The Rolling Stones was a blend of academic pursuits and musical experiences. One common piece of misinformation is the belief that Jagger ever worked as a social worker or in a manufacturing company. However, there are other facts that emerge when we delve into his early career paths.

Student Years at the London School of Economics

Although Jagger did attend the prestigious London School of Economics (LSE), it was for a limited period, and his primary focus was on music rather than academia. In fact, he spent more time honing his musical skills, which eventually led him to leave his studies behind to pursue his dream.

Incorrect statements, such as the one suggesting that Jagger planned to become an economics professor at LSE, are not backed by factual evidence. Instead, it is more accurate to say that, by around 20 years old, Jagger was already fully immersed in the world of music, with significant experience in performances and bands.

Short-Term Job at Bexley Mental Hospital

One of the lesser-known but true facts about Jagger's early career is that he worked briefly as a porter at Bexley Mental Hospital in London. This job was not exactly glamorous and has been referenced in various anecdotes, including a joke about working on a production line with someone named Ruby Tuesday (likely a playful reference to one of his famous songs).

Early Musical Experiences

Before joining The Rolling Stones, Jagger had some experience in the music industry, performing with various bands and honing his skills. His time at LSE was concurrent with these musical pursuits, but it was the music that ultimately brought him to the forefront of the English rock scene.

Rock-Climbing on TV: A Young Mick Jagger

Another interesting anecdote from Jagger's early life relates to a 1959 TV show segment where he appeared with his father. In the clip, an older man is seen raving about young Mick's shoes; this older man is indeed Mick Jagger's father, Basil. The segment showcases Jagger's early involvement in activities that would later influence his personality and career trajectory.

Conclusion

While Mick Jagger's life included various jobs and experiences before his musical career took off, it is clear that his passion for music was always the driving force. From his time at LSE to his brief stint as a porter at the Bexley Mental Hospital, these early experiences ultimately contributed to the character and personality that made him a pioneer of rock music. Whether in academia or on a production line, Jagger's life was consistently enriched by music, a testament to his enduring fascination with the genre and its culture.