What was the first instrument Mick Jagger learned to play?

The first instrument Mick Jagger learned to play was the harmonica. Its bluesy sound became an important part of his musical identity and later helped define many Rolling Stones performances.

Jagger developed his harmonica playing largely by ear, listening to American blues artists such as Jimmy Reed. He also learned by observing British blues harmonica player Cyril Davies, who influenced the early London rhythm-and-blues scene. Jagger has described a competitive element between himself and Brian Jones, who was also a skilled harmonica player.

Although Jagger is best known as the Rolling Stones’ singer and frontman, he has played harmonica on numerous recordings, including “Midnight Rambler” and “Gimme Shelter.” He also learned guitar later, but the harmonica was his earliest serious instrumental outlet.

The question can cause confusion because Jagger’s public image centers on vocals, while Keith Richards and Brian Jones are more strongly associated with guitar. In the Stones’ early blues-based style, however, Jagger’s harmonica playing was a significant part of the band’s sound.