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Rolling Stones unreleased: If You Can’t Rock Me (alternate take)
Written by: Jagger/Richard Recorded: Rolling Stones Mobile, Stargroves, Newbury, England, Apr. 10-15 1974 Guest musicians: Billy Preston (clavinet), Ray Cooper (congas) *Data taken from Martin Elliott’s book THE ROLLING STONES COMPLETE RECORDING SESSIONS 1962-2012
An Alternate Take of If You Can´t Rock Me: The Hidden Groove
In April 1974, amid the lush English countryside at Stargroves, the Rolling Stones captured a version of If You Can’t Rock Me that the world rarely hears — an alternate take brimming with raw energy and subtle differences that reveal another layer to this classic track. Unlike the polished album release, this recording, tracked with their Rolling Stones Mobile studio, offers an intimate glimpse into the band’s creative process. Guest musicians like Billy Preston, whose clavinet adds funky textures, and Ray Cooper on congas, enrich the soundscape, injecting a vibrant groove that underscores the Stones’ willingness to experiment beyond their hard rock roots. This unreleased take showcases the band’s chemistry during a particularly fertile session, highlighting nuances lost in the final cut and inviting fans to rediscover a familiar song from an unexpected angle.
Behind the Scenes of a Rocker
Written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, If You Can’t Rock Me is a testament to the dynamic songwriting partnership that defined much of the Stones’ signature sound. Recorded between April 10 and 15, 1974, this version features a slightly looser arrangement, capturing the band’s playful energy and spontaneity. The presence of Preston and Cooper adds unique rhythmic layers, giving the track a richer, more textured feel. This alternate take not only enriches the band’s legacy but also highlights their evolution, illustrating how even a single song can have multiple identities, depending on the moment it’s captured.
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