Rolling Stones: The History Behind the Music
Introduction
You've heard their music. You've seen them perform. But do you know the Rolling Stones' history? Let's take a look at some of the important moments in their career.
Overview of the Rolling Stones
To Rolling Stones fans, the band is more than just a group of musicians. They're an institution, a force of nature that has been making music for over fifty years. From their early days playing blues covers in London's pubs to headlining festivals all over the world, the Stones have always been the definition:
An institution is an organization or group that has a long and important history.
the band that people can rely on to give them a good show.
Their music has spanned generations, and they show no signs of slowing down. Whether you're a lifelong fan or just getting into them, here's a brief overview of the Rolling Stones' history.
The Formation and Early Years of the Rolling Stones
The Rolling Stones were first formed in London, England in 1962. At the time, they were comprised of Mick Jagger (vocals), Keith Richards (guitar), Brian Jones (guitar), Charlie Watts (drums), and Bill Wyman (bass).
Originally, they were known as the "Blue Boys" and played covers of popular R&B songs. However, they eventually began writing their own music and developed their own unique sound. Over the years, they would go on to become one of the most successful and iconic rock bands in history.
Iconic Albums and Popular Songs
One of the most iconic and successful bands of all time is the Rolling Stones.
This band has released so many popular songs and iconic albums that it's hard to keep track. Some of their most famous hits include "(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction," "Jumpin' Jack Flash," "Sympathy for the Devil" and "Gimme Shelter." Their music has been covered by artists from all genres, and they continue to influence new music to this day.
What makes the Rolling Stones so iconic? Many factors, but one key element is their longevity. They've been around for more than 50 years and show no signs of slowing down. Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, and the rest of the band continue to tour and release new music, fascinating fans old and new with their signature sound.
Live Performances and Tours
It's no surprise that the Rolling Stones made a name for themselves on stage. After all, their live performances have been legendary for nearly 60 years!
Their live shows started with smaller venues in England, then expanded across the globe. Over the years, they have played in some of the biggest and most iconic venues across the world. What made their performances so memorable was their charisma and connection with the fans—you were always in for a wild ride when it came to their live shows.
They were also pioneers in touring, going on multi-year tours to places like North America (including Canada and Mexico), Japan, Australia, and New Zealand, Europe, India, and China. These tours provided a great platform to promote their music and gain new fans. In addition, they pushed boundaries with their production design—becoming the first rock band to utilize large-scale light shows at their concerts.
The Rolling Stones remain one of the most influential bands in rock history, and their legacy lives on through their legendary live performances—some say they get better with age!
Achievements and Awards
You already know that the Rolling Stones have been around for nearly six decades and had countless hits. However, what you may not know is that they have also had a long list of achievements and awards.
The band has Billboard’s Top Artist of All Time Award, 28 Billboard Music Awards, and a record 19 Grammy Awards. Also, they have been inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame twice—once as a band in 1989 and again in 2004 as individual members.
The magazine Rolling Stone also recognized the band—literally—in their namesake publication by awarding them with the Lifetime Achievement Award in 1986. The Stones are also amongst the highest-grossing musical acts of all time, having earned an estimated $1.7 billion in concert ticket sales alone!
The Influence of the Rolling Stones on Music Today
The Rolling Stones have undoubtedly impacted music today in so many ways. From the groups they influenced, to the genres they popularized, to their attitude and style – it’s all a part of modern music today.
From the beginning, the Stones have always been an eclectic mix of rock ‘n’ roll, blues and rhythm-and-blues. They were able to mix and match these genres in clever ways that resulted in some of the most iconic songs of all time. This fusion of musical styles has inspired many current musicians to do the same in their own work, creating new sounds that blend traditional genres with modern ones.
Also, their rebellious attitude and style have had a lasting effect on musical culture. The Rolling Stones were never afraid to challenge authority or break conventions – and that fearlessness is something we can see very much alive in music today. From punk rockers and metal bands to hip-hop artists who talk about social issues – all these artists are no doubt influenced by the Rolling Stones’ attitude.
It goes without saying that the Rolling Stones have had a tremendous influence on modern music – something that will continue for years to come.
Conclusion
The Rolling Stones are one of the most influential bands of all time, and their story is one of hard work, dedication, and passion. They have inspired generations of musicians and their music still resonates with people today. If you're a fan of the Stones, or just interested in learning more about the band, this article is for you. Thanks for reading!