Watch Mick Jagger perform surprise impromptu pub gig with students in Oxford

Mick Jagger, the iconic frontman of The Rolling Stones, walked into the Half Moon in St Clements, Oxford, on a Sunday afternoon, June 7, surrounded by an unlikely entourage. Alongside his partner, Melanie Hamrick, a former American ballerina, Jagger was joined by Oriel Politics academic Robert Cheah and Rolling Stones keyboard player Matt Clifford. The group had been guests of Oriel College, where they had enjoyed drinks and dinner earlier in the evening.

As they settled into the pub's weekly folk session, Jagger, known for his passion for traditional music, couldn't resist the urge to take the stage. With a repertoire that spans decades, he chose to perform a cover of the traditional song 'Handsome Molly', a track he had previously recorded on his 1993 solo album 'Wandering Spirit'. The impromptu performance was met with delight by the pub's staff and patrons, who were thrilled to see the rock legend in their midst.

The Half Moon, a pub that prides itself on its authentic atmosphere and welcoming community, has been hosting its Sunday folk session for many years. As one employee noted, "You never know what to expect at the Half Moon." The venue's openness to all, regardless of musical background, made it the perfect setting for Jagger's surprise appearance.

The Rolling Stones, one of the most enduring rock bands in history, are gearing up to release their 25th studio album, 'Foreign Tongues', on July 10 via Polydor/Universal Music. The album promises to be a significant milestone in the band's illustrious career, featuring guest appearances from Paul McCartney, Robert Smith, Steve Winwood, and the late Charlie Watts. Despite the upcoming release, the band has yet to announce any tour dates to promote the album.

In a recent development, the band's guitarist, Keith Richards, had hinted that they might embark on a tour in 2027, following the cancellation of their planned UK and European stadium tour in 2026 due to his unavailability. However, Jagger has expressed his enthusiasm for hitting the road with his bandmates, stating that he "can't wait" to get back out on tour.

The Rolling Stones' upcoming album, 'Foreign Tongues', has generated significant buzz, particularly with the reveal of its tracklist, which features songs in actual foreign tongues. The band has also shared the story behind their collaboration with The Cure's Robert Smith, highlighting the value of creative partnerships and the importance of taking risks in music.

Mick Jagger's surprise performance at the Half Moon in Oxford serves as a reminder of the enduring power of music to bring people together. As a rock icon, Jagger has spent his career pushing boundaries and exploring new sounds, always staying true to his passion for traditional music.

In the words of the pub's employee, "The Half Moon is a place where everyone is welcome, regardless of their musical background." Jagger's impromptu performance at the pub is evidence of the idea that music has the power to transcend generations and bring people together in unexpected ways.

As the Rolling Stones prepare to release their new album and potentially embark on a tour, fans around the world are eagerly anticipating their next move. For Jagger, the experience of playing at the Half Moon in Oxford will undoubtedly remain a cherished memory, a reminder of the joy and spontaneity that music can bring to our lives.

As a culture reporter, I am struck by the significance of this moment, a reminder that even the most iconic figures in music can still surprise and delight us with their creativity and passion. The Rolling Stones' legacy is evidence of the power of music to inspire and bring people together, and I have no doubt that their upcoming album and potential tour will continue to captivate audiences around the world.

• The Rolling Stones' 25th studio album, 'Foreign Tongues', is set to be released on July 10 via Polydor/Universal Music.
• The album features guest appearances from Paul McCartney, Robert Smith, Steve Winwood, and the late Charlie Watts.
• The band has not announced any tour dates to promote the album, but Keith Richards has hinted that they might tour in 2027.
• Mick Jagger's surprise performance at the Half Moon in Oxford was a cover of the traditional song 'Handsome Molly'.