"Sympathy for the Devil," the iconic song by The Rolling Stones, is predominantly in the key of E major. This choice of key plays a significant role in the song's impactful and driving sound.
Understanding the Key of E Major
E major is a very common and popular key in rock music, largely due to its suitability for guitar-driven arrangements. Guitarists often find it comfortable to play in E major because many open string chords (E, A, D, G, B, e) are naturally available, allowing for resonant and powerful voicings.
- Characteristics: E major often evokes a bright, energetic, and sometimes anthemic feel. It's known for its robust sound, making it a fitting choice for a song with such a strong percussive and rhythmic foundation as "Sympathy for the Devil."
- Common Use: Beyond rock, E major is utilized across various genres, from blues to classical music, demonstrating its versatility. For a deeper dive into music theory, including scales and keys, you can consult reputable music theory resources.
Why E Major Suits "Sympathy for the Devil"
The choice of E major for "Sympathy for the Devil" enhances its characteristic groove and menacing yet alluring atmosphere. The song's repetitive, hypnotic chord progression, built around E major, provides a stable and powerful base for Mick Jagger's vocals and the track's intricate percussion.
- The driving samba rhythm, provided by congas and maracas, feels particularly grounded and propulsive in E major.
- Keith Richards' signature guitar riffs and fills, often utilizing the open E string, contribute to the song's raw and authentic rock sound.
- Nicky Hopkins' piano lines weave through the E major harmony, adding layers of rhythmic and melodic complexity.
Musical Elements and Instrumentation
"Sympathy for the Devil" is celebrated for its unique blend of rock instrumentation with Latin American percussion, all anchored by the E major framework.
- Lead Vocals: Mick Jagger's compelling performance.
- Guitar: Keith Richards' distinctive, often simple yet effective, chord progressions and solos.
- Piano: Nicky Hopkins' pivotal role in establishing the rhythmic and harmonic backbone.
- Bass: Bill Wyman's foundational bassline.
- Drums: Charlie Watts' steady, supportive drumming.
- Percussion: J. P. "Dixie" Annis and Rocky Dijon on congas and maracas, providing the song's iconic groove.
All these elements coalesce within the E major scale, allowing for a cohesive and powerful musical narrative.
Song Details at a Glance
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Song Title | Sympathy for the Devil |
| Artist | The Rolling Stones |
| Album | Beggars Banquet |
| Release Year | 1968 |
| Key | E Major |
| Genre | Rock, Psychedelic Rock, Blues Rock |
| Tempo | Approximately 114 beats per minute (Moderato) |
The Significance of Key in Rock Music
The chosen key significantly impacts a song's overall feel, the ease of playing for musicians (especially guitarists and bassists), and the vocal range it accommodates. For "Sympathy for the Devil," E major provided a strong, resonant foundation that allowed the band to build a layered, rhythmically complex, and ultimately timeless rock anthem.
