In a surprising twist, legendary Rolling Stones frontman Sir Mick Jagger, aged 80, is contemplating a philanthropic gesture that could shake the foundations of the music world. Instead of bequeathing his colossal $500 million fortune to his offspring, Jagger is mulling over the possibility of directing his wealth towards charitable causes.
In an exclusive interview with The Wall Street Journal, the iconic rocker expressed a newfound conviction that his eight children “don’t need $500 million (£400 million) to live on.” With humility befitting his status as a rock and roll icon, Jagger seeks to leverage his wealth for the greater good, believing that funneling his riches into charitable endeavors could “do some good in the world.”
This potential shift in fortune disposition could mark a significant departure from the traditional notion of passing wealth down through generations. While Jagger’s children, including successful model Georgia May, may not inherit his vast wealth, they certainly won’t be wanting for opportunities or experiences.
The decision, though unconventional, appears to be rooted in a belief that transcends material wealth. Jagger’s deep commitment to leaving a lasting impact on the world aligns with the ethos of countless charitable organizations dedicated to addressing global challenges, from poverty alleviation to healthcare access.
The Rolling Stones themselves have grappled with financial hurdles over the years, navigating ownership rights complexities that have left them without control of their catalogue before 1971, which includes iconic hits such as “Satisfaction,” “Paint it Black,” and “Jumpin Jack Flash.” Their journey through the labyrinth of music industry finance eventually led them to accountant Allen Klein in the 1960s, who managed to secure lucrative deals but retained control of their catalogue for several years.
Jagger’s willingness to break from the mold isn’t unprecedented, as several music industry luminaries, including Bruce Springsteen, Paul Simon, and Sting, have recently chosen to sell the rights to their work. Nevertheless, the Stones’ catalogue remains untouched, with no decisions yet made regarding its future.
If Mick’s daughter, Georgia May, was perturbed by her father’s unorthodox announcement, she didn’t show it. Instead, she was spotted enjoying Paris Fashion Week alongside her mother, Jerry Hall, showcasing the family’s unwavering resilience in the face of potential shifts in fortune.
As Jagger contemplates the fate of his wealth, he’s also pondering the future of music itself. In a recent conversation, he delved into the intriguing concept of The Rolling Stones potentially outliving him through the use of AI technology in the music industry. With artists like ABBA successfully embracing AI avatars to depict their younger selves on stage, Jagger hinted at the possibility of a ‘posthumous tour’ featuring AI avatars of himself and his fellow bandmates.
Referencing ABBA’s triumphs, Jagger expressed his fascination with the evolving technology, stating, “You can have a posthumous business now, can’t you? You can have a posthumous tour.” This glimpse into the future of music could see The Rolling Stones transcend time, ensuring their enduring legacy lives on.
As the world awaits Sir Mick Jagger’s final decision regarding his vast fortune, the music industry braces itself for a potential revolution led by AI avatars. Jagger’s philanthropic inclination underscores the enduring impact of music icons, not only through their melodies but also through their choices that ripple across generations.
