Primitive Cool


Primitive Cool is the second solo album by the Rolling Stones lead singer Mick Jagger and was released in 1987. As the follow-up to Jagger's 1985 success She's the Boss, Primitive Cool was another attempt by Jagger to make him a solo star. However, the commercial reaction was cooler than expected.

Background

Following the release of Dirty Work in 1986, relations between Jagger and Keith Richards soured after Jagger decided to not tour the album in favour of starting his second solo project. Richards was vocal about his discontent in the media—which Jagger replied to, also publicly; "Kow Tow" and "Shoot Off Your Mouth" were reportedly written in response to disparaging remarks made about Jagger by Keith Richards. Undeterred, Jagger promptly began work on Primitive Cool, recording in the Netherlands and Barbados.
Joining up with David A. Stewart and Keith Diamond in the producer's chair, Jagger used Jeff Beck as the regular guitarist for the sessions, seeking to have more uniformity in the recordings.

Reception

Released in September 1987 with "Let's Work" as the lead single, the commercial reaction to Primitive Cool was not as welcoming as the reception for She's the Boss, with the album merely reaching No. 26 in the UK and No. 41 in the United States with "Let's Work" and follow-ups singles "Throwaway" and "Say You Will" were minor hits, not at all rivalling "Just Another Night" in commercial success. As a result, although Jagger toured Primitive Cool, it was only in Japan and Australia, not feeling confident enough to attempt American or British shows.

Reissue

Although originally released by CBS, Primitive Cool was acquired and reissued by Atlantic Records in 1993 following the release of Jagger's third album, Wandering Spirit.

Cover version

In 1999, Mary Chapin Carpenter covered the song "Party Doll" from Primitive Cool, as the title track of her compilation, Party Doll and Other Favorites.

Track listing

Personnel

Weekly charts

Singles

Certifications and sales