The meaning of Thru And Thru by The Rolling Stones

The Rolling Stones' song "Through the Long Day" is often mislabeled as "Thru And Thru", but regardless of its official title, this track is a standout cut from their 1981 album "Tattoo You". Written by Keith Richards and Mick Jagger, the song is a nostalgic reflection on the passing of time and the fleeting nature of life.

At its core, "Through the Long Day" is a lamentation of lost youth and the ravages of age. The lyrics, delivered in Jagger's signature growl, paint a picture of a world moving quickly by, with the narrator struggling to keep up. Richards' guitar work is characteristically economical yet effective, providing a simple yet powerful backdrop for Jagger's poignant musings.

The song's tempo is deliberate and plodding, mirroring the narrator's sense of resignation as he surveys the landscape of his life. The result is a hauntingly beautiful ballad that showcases the band's ability to craft songs that are both introspective and universally relatable. Despite being released during a period when the Rolling Stones were often criticized for their perceived commercialism, "Through the Long Day" stands as a testament to the band's enduring capacity for introspection and emotional depth.

Throughout the song, Jagger's voice is marked by its characteristic swooping cadences and phrasings, imbuing the lyrics with a sense of longing and wistfulness. Richards' guitar work is similarly understated yet effective, providing a subtle foundation that allows Jagger's vocals to take center stage. The result is a song that is both deeply personal and universally accessible, making "Through the Long Day" one of the Rolling Stones' most enduring and beloved tracks.