“Salt of the Earth” is a track by The Rolling Stones, featured as the closing song on their 1968 album “Beggars Banquet.” The song stands out for its unique blend of rock, folk, and gospel influences and its socially conscious lyrics.

About the Song:

• Lyrics and Theme: “Salt of the Earth” is a tribute to the working-class people, often referred to as the “salt of the earth.” The lyrics reflect a rare moment of social commentary from The Rolling Stones, as they acknowledge the struggles and resilience of ordinary people. The song opens with Mick Jagger’s vocals, singing about the “common people” who “turn the wheels” of the world. The chorus includes the famous lines:
  • “Let’s drink to the hard-working people / Let’s drink to the lowly of birth / Raise your glass to the good and the evil / Let’s drink to the salt of the earth.”
• Musical Style: The song is marked by its folk-influenced acoustic guitar, gospel-inspired backing vocals, and a more subdued, reflective tone compared to some of the band’s other work from that period. Keith Richards also takes on lead vocals for the first verse, which is a rarity in The Rolling Stones’ discography.
• Performance and Production: “Salt of the Earth” features contributions from several notable musicians, including Nicky Hopkins on piano and the Los Angeles Watts Street Gospel Choir on backing vocals, which add a rich, layered sound to the track. The song’s arrangement gradually builds up, culminating in a powerful and uplifting chorus.

Legacy and Influence:

• Social Commentary: “Salt of the Earth” is often cited as one of The Rolling Stones’ most socially aware songs. It reflects the band’s awareness of the social issues of the time, though it’s delivered with a mix of admiration and a hint of detachment.
• Performances: The song has been performed live on various occasions, including the famous 1969 concert at Hyde Park in London. It’s also been featured in several of the band’s greatest hits compilations.
• Cultural Impact: Over the years, “Salt of the Earth” has been appreciated for its lyrical depth and the way it captures the spirit of the late 1960s, a time of significant social and political change.

“Salt of the Earth” remains a significant song in The Rolling Stones’ catalog, representing a moment where the band engaged more directly with the social issues of their time.