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The Melody Maker and The Rolling Stones
THE MELODY MAKER AND HOW THE STONES FOUND THEIR GROOVE Back in late 1962, the Rolling Stones hit up the Melody Maker to find a bassist, holding auditions at London’s Wetherby Arms. They weren’t just after a player—they needed someone with an amp that could match their raw energy. Enter Bill Wyman, whose bass and gear were just what the band needed. The classifieds turned into a launchpad, connecting the Stones with the right talent and helping them lock in the lineup that would change rock history.
One of the world’s earliest music weekly papers, the Stones advertised in the Melody Maker for a bass guitarist in late 1962, holding the auditions at the Wetherby Arms pub, London. In addition to needing a bass player, the Stones needed an amplifier. Even Bill Wyman was the bassist with the biggest amp.
In the vibrant world of music journalism, few publications can claim the kind of influence and legacy that Melody Maker does. For decades, this weekly music paper served as a beacon, delivering the latest news, interviews, and reviews to an eager audience of music enthusiasts. Amidst the countless articles that graced its pages, one particular story stands out – the unveiling of the Rolling Stones’ early search for a bassist and an amplifier.
The Rolling Stones Seek Their Missing Bassist
However, the missing piece to their musical puzzle was a talented bassist who could add depth and groove to their sound. The Melody Maker played a crucial role in showcasing the band’s quest for a bassist and an amplifier. Their classifieds section became a platform for musicians seeking auditions, and aspiring bass players from all over the country eagerly responded to the Stones’ call. The magazine acted as a bridge, connecting the band with potential candidates who shared the same passion for music. Week after week, the pages of Melody Maker were filled with advertisements placed by enthusiastic bassists hoping to catch the Stones’ attention.
These ads not only revealed the sheer talent and creativity of the aspiring musicians, but also highlighted the spirit of collaboration and camaraderie within the music community at that time. Simultaneously, Melody Maker explored the technological side of the Stones’ pursuit – the search for the perfect amplifier. From tube amps to solid-state equipment, the magazine dedicated articles and reviews to the cutting-edge gear available to musicians during that era. They dissected the tonal qualities, power, and versatility of various amplifiers, guiding both the Stones and their fellow musicians in making informed decisions about their sound.
The Rolling Stones Finally Find Bill Wyman
Ultimately, the Rolling Stones found their bassist (that was Bill Wyman, of course) and solidified their lineup. Melody Maker, with its unwavering commitment to supporting and promoting emerging talent, had played a vital part in this pivotal moment of the band’s history.
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