Book Review: The Rolling Stones: The Brian Jones Years

Love Me Do reviews The Rolling Stones: The Brian Jones Years (Every Song from Every Session) by Peter Checksfield, an in-depth look into Brian Jones’ influence.

Brian Jones of the Rolling Stones playing guitar — Brian Jones

The Rolling Stones: The Brian Jones Years! (Every Song from Every Session) by Peter Checksfield is an illuminating exploration of the Rolling Stones’ formative years, shining a spotlight on the remarkable contributions of Brian Jones.

Checksfield meticulously chronicles every song recorded during this period, providing a detailed account that spans from the band’s earliest demos in 1962 to the sessions for Let It Bleed in 1969. This book is an invaluable resource for fans and music historians who wish to delve deep into the band’s early catalog.

Brian Jones was fired during the recording sessions for Let It Bleed, as he had become so unreliable, either being unable to record due to his heavy drug use or not turning up at all. On Le t Bleed he is only credited with playing the congas and the autoharp on just two tracks. He died within a month of being sacked from the band..

Rolling Stones Let It Bleed deluxe version — Let It Bleed Deluxe Edition

One of the most compelling aspects of the book is its comprehensive coverage of various types of recordings. Checksfield includes not only the well-known studio sessions but also live recordings, radio and TV broadcasts, and songs that the band gave away. This holistic approach offers readers a 360-degree view of the band’s creative output during those Brian Jones years.

Legendary Recordings

The book covers now-legendary recordings such as Come On, the Stones’ first single, which was released in 1963. This Chuck Berry cover marked the beginning of their career and set the tone for their early sound. Another significant recording is I Wanna Be Your Man, a song written by Lennon and McCartney, which showcased the band’s ability to interpret and inject their own style into works by other artists.

Lesser-Known Tracks

Checksfield also delves into lesser-known tracks like Stoned, an instrumental B-side that highlights the band’s early experimentation with different musical styles. The book examines the recording of Little Red Rooster, a blues cover that reached number one on the UK charts in 1964, emphasizing Jones’s role in bringing the blues influence to the forefront of the band’s music.

Live Recordings

Live recordings are given their due attention as well, with notable mentions of performances at the Marquee Club in London. These early gigs were instrumental in shaping the band’s stage presence and allowed them to hone their craft in front of enthusiastic audiences. The inclusion of these live recordings provides a glimpse into the energy and raw talent that characterized their early shows.

The Brian Jones Influence

The book doesn’t shy away from discussing the personal dynamics within the band and how they influenced the music. Brian Jones’s contributions were not limited to his exceptional guitar work; his proficiency with a variety of instruments, including the sitar, marimba, and harmonica, added a unique flavor to the Stones’ sound. Tracks like Paint It, Black and Under My Thumb are testaments to his innovative approach to music-making.

Aftermath and Between the Buttons

Checksfield’s detailed analysis of sessions such as those for Aftermath and Between the Buttons illustrates how the band evolved musically and stylistically. These sessions marked a period of experimentation and growth, with Jones often leading the charge in exploring new sonic landscapes.

In conclusion, The Rolling Stones: The Brian Jones Years! (Every Song from Every Session) by Peter Checksfield is a meticulously researched and thoughtfully written tribute to the early years of one of rock ‘n’ roll’s greatest bands. It offers readers an in-depth look at the recordings that defined the Brian Jones era, highlighting his significant contributions and the band’s creative process.

While the level of detail may be overwhelming for casual readers, it is a treasure trove for dedicated fans and music enthusiasts who wish to immerse themselves in the rich history of the Rolling Stones. This book stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Brian Jones and the timeless music he helped create.