Rock legend Ronnie Wood reveals his all-time favorite Rolling Stones album
When you’re part of a band, it’s only natural to have a special bond with the songs you’ve played on. While paying homage to the legendary guitarists who paved the way for you is essential, there’s something truly special about reflecting on the impact you’ve made on the music world. And for Ronnie Wood, the newest member of The Rolling Stones, the album ‘Beggars Banquet’ holds a special place in his heart.
During the creation of ‘Beggars Banquet’, The Rolling Stones were entering a highly creative phase, despite the challenges they faced. After years of living in the shadows of The Beatles, Mick Jagger and Keith Richards finally found their own voice as songwriters. It became evident that they would be formidable rivals to John Lennon and Paul McCartney as the 1960s drew to a close.
However, amidst the band’s rising success, there was one member who seemed to be drifting away – Brian Jones. Feeling dissatisfied with his role in the group, Jones often found himself disengaged in the studio, spending more time napping than contributing. This disconnect led Richards to take on most of the lead guitar duties, laying the foundation for their sound before Mick Taylor joined the band.
What sets ‘Beggars Banquet’ apart from other Stones albums is its intimate and raw feel. Jagger and Richards take center stage, with Watts and Wyman providing a solid backbone to their musical exploration. The album sees the band reconnecting with their blues roots, infusing country elements into tracks like ‘No Expectations’.
Ronnie Wood himself has praised ‘Beggars Banquet’ as one of the best records ever made by The Rolling Stones. In a recent Instagram post, Wood expressed his admiration for the album, calling it his favorite Stones record despite not being a part of it. Given Wood’s history of collaborating with Rod Stewart on iconic rock and roll projects, his affinity for ‘Beggars Banquet’ comes as no surprise.
While ‘Beggars Banquet’ marks the beginning of a classic string of albums for The Rolling Stones, it stands out as a masterpiece on its own. The album may not boast flashy guitar solos, but it captures the band’s struggle for survival and sanity in a tumultuous era. Through ten tracks, The Rolling Stones paint a vivid picture of life on the fringes, making ‘Beggars Banquet’ a timeless piece of musical artistry.
As Ronnie Wood and music enthusiasts alike continue to celebrate the legacy of ‘Beggars Banquet’, it remains a testament to The Rolling Stones’ enduring influence on rock music. From the heartfelt lyrics to the soulful melodies, this album stands as a beacon of musical excellence, showcasing the band at the peak of their creative powers.
