About the song
“Blame It on the Stones” by Kris Kristofferson is a satirical and witty commentary on society’s tendency to scapegoat countercultural movements for its own problems. Featured on his 1970 self-titled debut album, the song humorously criticizes the moral panic directed at rock ‘n’ roll bands, particularly The Rolling Stones, who were often blamed for promoting rebellious and hedonistic lifestyles during the late 1960s.
The lyrics portray a scene where an angry, conservative society blames the youth’s misbehavior on the influence of rock music and its provocative culture. Kristofferson cleverly uses the narrative voice of a concerned citizen who denounces the Stones for corrupting the younger generation. The song captures the absurdity of this mindset, highlighting how people often point fingers at easy targets rather than addressing deeper societal issues.
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Musically, “Blame It on the Stones” features a lively and upbeat arrangement with elements of country and rock, reflecting the satirical and playful tone of the lyrics. The brisk tempo and jaunty melody create a light-hearted feel, which contrasts with the pointed critique embedded in the song’s message. Kristofferson’s vocal delivery is casual yet sharp, enhancing the song’s ironic humor.
In the chorus, the repetition of the phrase “Blame it on the Stones” serves as a catchy and memorable hook, emphasizing the scapegoating theme. The song suggests that blaming popular culture for social problems is a convenient way to avoid dealing with more complex issues, such as inequality, injustice, and generational divides. By mocking this mindset, Kristofferson invites listeners to question the true causes of societal discontent.
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The song also reflects the cultural tensions of its time, when traditional values were clashing with the emerging counterculture of the 1960s and 1970s. Kristofferson’s clever wordplay and use of satire make “Blame It on the Stones” not just a critique of past attitudes but a timeless commentary on the tendency to oversimplify and demonize what we don’t understand.
Blame It on the Stones is a sharp, humorous critique of society’s propensity to blame external influences for its own issues. Through its satirical lyrics and lively tune, the song underscores the futility of scapegoating and encourages a deeper look at the root causes of social problems. It remains a relevant and thought-provoking piece, showcasing Kristofferson’s unique ability to blend humor with insightful social commentary.
Video
Lyrics
“Blame It On The Stones”
Wond’rin’ what the younger generation’s coming to
And the taste of his martini doesn’t please his bitter tongue
Blame it on the Rolling Stones.
Blame it on the Stones; blame it on the Stones
You’ll feel so much better, knowing you don’t stand alone
Join the accusation; save the bleeding nation
Get it off your shoulders; blame it on the Stones
Mother tells the ladies at the bridge club every day
Of the rising price of tranquilizers she must pay
And she wonders why the children never seem to stay at home
Blame it on the Rolling Stones.
Blame it on the Stones; Blame it on the Stones
You’ll feel so much better, knowing you don’t stand alone
Join the accusation; save the bleeding nation
Get it off your shoulders; blame it on the Stones
Father’s at the office, nightly working all the time
Trying to make the secretary change her little mind
And it bothers him to read about so many broken homes
Blame it on those Rolling Stones.
Blame it on the Stones; Blame it on the Stones
You’ll feel so much better knowing you don’t stand alone
Join the accusation; same the bleeding nation
Get it off your shoulders; blame it on the Stones
Blame it on the stones, blame it on the stones.