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Jeff Beck and The Rolling Stones and through the years
What if Jeff Beck had actually joined The Rolling Stones? Rock history might have taken a very different turn—and probably a considerably louder one. After Mick Taylor’s departure, Beck emerged as one of the guitarists considered for the Stones, but the pairing never became permanent. Instead, he briefly entered their orbit during the 1975 Rotterdam sessions, leaving behind an intriguing musical connection without ever taking the job. Beck’s story with the Stones didn’t end there, either. He later worked with Mick Jagger on solo projects and eventually shared the stage with the band in 2012. It’s a fascinating case of a guitarist who kept crossing paths with the Stones without ever officially becoming one of them.
England’s favourite all-time flash guitar hero, Beck led the group bearing his name, The Jeff Beck Group, which was the nest for Ron Wood between Ronnie leaving The Birds and joining The Faces. Beck was also a serious contender in the Stones’ “Great Guitarists Hunt” after Mick Taylor’s departure, though rumor has always had it that Beck rejected the Stones, feeling that the rhythm section was not “funky” enough for his tastes. He did, however, record a few unreleased tracks in February 1975 with the Stones during the Rotterdam sessions. Later on, asked to participate in the New Barbarians tour in 1979, Beck uttered his favourite word, “No!”. Later on, Beck would record for Mick’s first two solo albums and other Stones-related assorted projects.
Jeff Beck and The Rolling Stones: A Missed Match of Rock Icons
Jeff Beck, the renowned English guitarist, had a multifaceted relationship with The Rolling Stones, marked by both collaborative efforts and missed opportunities. Following Mick Taylor’s departure from The Rolling Stones in 1974, Jeff Beck was considered as a potential replacement. However, Beck declined the opportunity, citing concerns about the band’s “loose and undisciplined” approach, which contrasted with his preference for precision and discipline. He felt that joining the Stones wouldn’t be a suitable fit for his musical style.
Despite not joining the band, Beck collaborated with Mick Jagger on his solo projects. He played guitar on Jagger’s albums, contributing to tracks that showcased his distinctive playing style. In 2012, Beck joined The Rolling Stones on stage during their 50 and Counting tour, delivering a memorable performance of Going Down. This collaboration highlighted the mutual respect between Beck and the band, despite their earlier differences.
While Jeff Beck never became a permanent member of The Rolling Stones, his interactions with the band were marked by mutual admiration. Mick Jagger, reflecting on Beck’s passing in 2023, described him as “a wonderful man and one of the greatest guitar players in the world.”
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