3B: The Rolling Stones
The Rolling Stones were formed in London in 1962. (Question 1 — Where is London?)
Their primary members were Mick Jagger, who sang and wrote the songs; and Keith Richards, who played guitar.
The Rolling Stones were influenced by early rock ‘n roll (most people say rock ‘n roll started in the 1950s) and the blues.
When they met as teen-agers, Jagger and Richards both had albums by Muddy Waters. Keith Richards said that the first time he heard Muddy play guitar, “It was the most powerful and expressive music” he had ever heard.
They named their band after Muddy Waters’ song, “Rollin’ Stone.” Here’s a recording of Muddy singing the song in 1960.
In 1964, the Rolling Stones recorded a version of the Muddy Waters song “I’m a King Bee.” Listen to Muddy’s version here.
Now, listen to the Rolling Stones’ version. (Question 2 — What instrument do you hear at the beginning of Muddy Waters’ version that you don’t hear in the Rolling Stones’?)
The Stones recorded several old blues songs during their career. Listen to this version of Robert Johnson’s “Stop Breaking Down.”
Now, listen to this version from the Rolling Stones. There are some great pictures of the band here.
Still, the band is best known for its own songs. Two of their most distinctive traits are Mick Jagger’s stage presence and Keith Richard’s guitar playing. They’ve been together more than 55 years and they’re still playing! Here’s one of their most popular songs from 1965.
Here’s another famous song. This is from a concert in 2010. How would you describe Mick Jagger’s stage mannerisms?
Bonus video: Keith Richards learned to play with a five-stringed guitar. (Most guitars have six.) Starting at 1:30, watch Keith take a string off the guitar, re-tune it, and play some blues licks. The words “licks” or “riffs” are often used to describe guitar cords.)
Answers:
1 — London is the largest city in England
2 — Muddy Waters’ version features a harmonica