Album: Wandering Spirit

Introduction
"Wandering Spirit" is the 3rd solo studio album by Rolling Stones' lead vocalist, Mick Jagger, launched in 1993. This critically well-known album saw Jagger branching out from his usual brand name of rock and roll to check out various categories such as soul, funk, and even nation. With Jagger personally involved in the writing and production, "Wandering Spirit" showcases his flexibility and creativity as an artist. The album includes visitor looks from Lenny Kravitz, Jim Keltner, Flea, and famous bassist Doug Wimbish, among others.

Background and Recording
After the massive success of The Rolling Stones' album "Steel Wheels" in 1989, Mick Jagger decided to revisit his solo career, which had actually been inactive since the release of "Primitive Cool" in 1987. Captivated by the idea of working with a fresh set of musicians and innovative energies, Jagger teamed up with producer Rick Rubin, who was known for his work with acts like Run DMC, Beastie Boys, and Red Hot Chili Peppers. The recording sessions for "Wandering Spirit" began in Los Angeles in 1992 and continued till the summer of that year.

The album's production was assisted primarily by Jagger and Rubin, leading to a raw, intimate sound that genuinely recorded Jagger's musical essence. Together, they went for a more natural and spontaneous recording procedure, which translated into a stripped-down and back-to-basics approach to the album's instrumentation and arrangements. This allowed Jagger's distinctive vocals and songwriting to take spotlight.

Release and Reception
"Wandering Spirit" was released in February 1993 and debuted at number 12 on the Billboard 200 chart in the United States, eventually peaking at number 11. The album received favorable reviews from critics, applauding Jagger's venture into different musical styles and his powerful singing performances. The album was also commercially effective, being accredited gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) for offering over 500,000 copies.

4 songs were released from the album: "Sweet Thing", "Don't Tear Me Up", "Wired All Night", and "Out of Focus". The video for "Sweet Thing" featured Jagger in numerous roles, consisting of a gender-swapped version of himself. The singles delighted in moderate chart success, with "Don't Tear Me Up" peaking at top on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks chart.

Track Listing and Musical Styles
"Wandering Spirit" includes 14 tracks that look into numerous musical genres. From the high-energy rock of "Wired All Night" to the tender balladry of "Angel in My Heart", the album explores the complete spectrum of Jagger's musical capabilities. Notable tracks include "Out of Focus", which highlights Jagger's bluesy harmonica skills; the cool and defiant "Shoot Off Your Mouth;" and the sultry, emotional duet with Lenny Kravitz on "Use Me".

One of the most unexpected tracks is the country-infused "Hang on to Me Tonight", which features Jagger crooning over a twangy steel guitar. This diverse series of designs even more develops Jagger's expertise as a versatile artist and songwriter.

Legacy and Impact
"Wandering Spirit" remains Mick Jagger's highest-charting solo album to date, and it stands as a testament to his creative development outside of The Rolling Stones. Though Jagger reunited with the band and continued to record and tour with them in the years that followed, "Wandering Spirit" marked a pivotal moment in his profession, showcasing his adaptability and passion to check out brand-new musical horizons.

In many methods, "Wandering Spirit" paved the way for later rock artists to take innovative threats and expand their own musical limits. The album is now considered one of the finest, most varied solo efforts from a member of The Rolling Stones and continues to be celebrated as an essential milestone in Jagger's storied career.