The Infamous Knighting of Sir Mick Jagger

December 12, 2022 - Today marks 19 years since Mick Jagger was officially knighted by the now-King Charles III at Buckingham Palace for 40 years of service to popular music. He was joined by two of his daughters, Karis and Elizabeth, as well as his 92-year-old father. 

Although he is not the first musician to receive such high honors, Jagger has made history as one of the most controversial candidates to be considered for it. He has always kept a rebellious image, between his anti-establishment views, drug use, and many romantic and sexual affairs. He referred to the Queen herself as "Chief Witch" and proclaimed that "Anarchy is is the only slight glimmer of hope". Rolling Stones guitarist and fellow songwriter Keith Richards criticized him and called him a sellout for accepting the knighthood. Other musicians, such as David Bowie, also disagreed with his decision to take part in the ceremony.

Credit: AFP/Rolling Stone Magazine

On top of that, Queen Elizabeth herself wasn't entirely keen on knighting Sir Mick Jagger. She is said to have scheduled her knee surgery (cartilage removal from the left knee) for the day before solely so she wouldn't have to be there. She sent then-Prince Charles in her stead.

Another one of the main issues the queen took with Jagger's knighting involved his relationship with the late Princess Margaret. They met in their younger years when both were known to attend parties on the island of Mustique, and remained good friends for over twenty years. At the beginning of their friendship though, the royal family was concerned about whether or not he may be taking advantage of her royal status for his own benefit, as well as rumors of an affair between the two that was never confirmed or denied. 

Personally, while I am happy for Sir Mick Jagger, I do notice a lot of conflicting details. If he truly is anti-establishment, what caused him to accept the knighthood, let alone befriend Princess Margaret? He claims his image was just a result of being himself, which may be true, however I'm a tad bit skeptical at this point. 

What are your thoughts on the ceremony? Should he have accepted it?

Happy listening!

Hey there! I'm Olive, and I'm a part-time blog writer hoping to share my love of older music and countercultural history. I started this blog during my freshman year of college as a means to get a head start doing what I love most - writing. I've always loved writing and music, and wanted to do something that would involve doing both. Now, I've got this cool (totally not biased) blog page!

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