What Happened On July 12th?
On July 12, 1962, a small crowd gathered at the Marquee Club in London, unaware of who they were really about to witness. The Rolling Stones, then an unknown band of young, energetic musicians, took the stage for their first performance.
In Dartford, Mick Jagger and Keith Richards rekindled their childhood friendship over a shared love of blues music. Their passion led them to Brian Jones, a guitarist eager to form a band rooted in rhythm and blues. With Ian Stewart on piano, Dick Taylor on bass, and Tony Chapman on drums, the early lineup of the Rolling Stones came together.
The Marquee Club, known for its lively jazz scene, offered the Stones their first chance to perform. Alexis Korner’s Blues Incorporated, the resident band, temporarily vacated their spot, and Jones secured the opportunity for his group. Determined to make an impression, the Stones prepared a setlist that honored their blues idols.
A Modest Beginning
As the Rolling Stones took the stage, excitement filled the smoky basement club. They started with a cover of Chuck Berry’s “Come On,” setting the tone for a night of blues-infused rock ‘n’ roll. The raw energy of their performance ignited the crowd.
Mick Jagger’s commanding stage presence, paired with Keith Richards’ raw guitar riffs, grabbed the audience’s attention. Brian Jones’ slide guitar added a distinctive edge to their sound, while Ian Stewart’s piano and Dick Taylor’s bass provided a solid rhythm foundation. Despite the modest crowd, the Stones played with an intensity that hinted at their potential.
Blues Roots & Electric Vibes
The Rolling Stones’ first setlist paid homage to American blues artists. They performed covers of Jimmy Reed’s “Bright Lights, Big City,” and Muddy Waters’ “I Just Want to Make Love to You,” infusing each song with their unique style. These performances demonstrated their ability to breathe new life into classic blues tracks.
Their set also included “Got My Mojo Working,” a blues standard popularized by Muddy Waters. The song’s infectious rhythm and spirited delivery resonated with the audience, showcasing the band’s potential to energize the British music scene.
The Alchemy Of The Stones
Even in their first performance, the chemistry between the band members became evident. Jagger and Richards’ partnership, both on and off stage, laid the groundwork for one of the most iconic songwriting duos in rock history. Brian Jones’ multi-instrumental talent and visionary approach to music added depth to their sound.
Their debut at the Marquee Club came with challenges. Tony Chapman, the original drummer, struggled to match the band’s pace and soon left the band. Charlie Watts, with his steady, jazz-influenced drumming, became a key element of the Stones’ sound. Although initially a central figure, Ian Stewart moved to a behind-the-scenes role due to his unconventional appearance, but his musical contributions remained significant.
Crafting a Rock Legacy
After their first performance, the Rolling Stones continued to play at various London clubs, gradually building a loyal following. Their unpolished, rebellious style resonated with a generation seeking change. By 1963, they had secured a residency at the Crawdaddy Club, where their dynamic performances attention of manager Andrew Loog Oldham.
Oldham’s vision for the band, combined with their raw talent, propelled the Rolling Stones to greater heights. Under his guidance, they embraced a more provocative image, presenting themselves as the “bad boys” of rock ‘n’ roll in contrast to the clean-cut Beatles. This rebranding, along with their musical prowess, set the stage for their rise to fame.
A Night In Rock History
The Rolling Stones’ performance at the Marquee Club revealed their raw talent and paved the way for their future success. Their blend of blues and rock ‘n’ roll, combined with their mesmerizing stage presence, left a lasting impression on those in attendance.
Reflecting on that night, one could see the beginnings of a band that would produce timeless hits like “Satisfaction,” “Paint It Black,” and “Sympathy for the Devil.” The Rolling Stones’ journey from a small club in London to global fame highlighted their unique sound and the power of their music.
The Influence
The Rolling Stones became cultural icons, embodying the spirit of rock ‘n’ roll. Their style, marked by Jagger’s dramatic performances and Richards’ gritty guitar work, inspired countless musicians and shaped the sound of modern rock.
The band’s longevity showed their adaptability and dedication to their craft. From their blues roots to their ventures into psychedelia, country, and disco, the Rolling Stones continually evolved, staying relevant through the decades. Their ability to connect with audiences, both old and new, underscored their status as one of the greatest rock bands of all time.
The Unsung Hero
While Mick Jagger and Keith Richards often took the spotlight, Ian Stewart’s role in the band’s early success remained crucial. Known affectionately as “Stu,” Stewart’s piano playing added a unique dimension to the Stones’ sound. Though he later left the official lineup, he continued to tour with the band and play on their albums until his untimely death in 1985.
Stewart’s contribution became so significant that, upon his death, the band considered disbanding. Instead, they chose to honor his memory by continuing to perform, ensuring that his legacy lived on through their music.
