The article explores longstanding speculation that Carly Simon’s 1972 hit “You’re So Vain” and the Rolling Stones’ 1976 song “Memory Motel” may have been inspired by Simon and Mick Jagger’s brief relationship. It argues that the songs’ alleged connection is intriguing because Jagger sang backing vocals on Simon’s track, while “Memory Motel” includes a woman some listeners associate with Simon.

Simon has said “You’re So Vain” combines several men, publicly identifying only Warren Beatty as one influence, so Jagger’s role remains unconfirmed. “Memory Motel”, from the Stones’ Black And Blue album, was written mainly by Jagger with a bridge by Keith Richards; Jagger has said it was based on a real woman, but did not name her.