Artist of the Month – Rolling Stones

The Rolling Stones are an English rock band that was formed in London, England in 1962. The first line-up consisted Brian Jones, Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Bill Wyman, Charlie Watts and Ian Stewart. Stewart was dropped from the line up however still filled his duties as the road manager and played on countless recordings after being dropped.

The Rolling Stones were at the forefront of the British Invasion to become popular in the US in 1964. Being rooted from the blues and early rock and roll, the group help shape music in the mid-1960s for future generations.

• Keith Richards and Mick Jagger are childhood friends/classmates that met in 1950
• After declining a deal with the Beatles, Decca Records gave the Rolling Stones a recording contract
• The Rolling Stones’ logo wasn’t introduced until 1971 which was designed by John Pasche and modified by Craig Braun
• The Rolling Stones have performed more than 2,000 concerts worldwide

Band Members:

• Mick Jagger – vocals, harmonica, rhythm guitar, percussion, keyboards (1962-present)
• Keith Richards – rhythm and lead guitar, bass guitar, vocals (1962-present)
• Charlie Watts – drums, percussion (1963-present)
• Ronnie Wood – lead and rhythm guitar, bass guitar, backing vocals (1975-present)

Former Members:

• Brian Jones – rhythm guitar, harmonica, keyboards, piano, backing vocals (1962-1969; died 1969)
• Ian Stewart – keyboards, piano (1962-1982; died 1985)
• Mick Taylor – lead guitar, bass guitar, backing vocals (1969-1974, 2012-2014)
• Bill Wyman – bass guitar, keyboards, piano, backing vocals (1962-1993)

To learn more about the Rolling Stones check out the ALBUM OF THE MONTH and the STONES EXHIBIT at the MUSICIANS HALL OF FAME