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Today in Rolling Stones history: December 21

*Click for DAILY ROLLING STONES CHRONOLOGY 1962-present

December 21, 1962: Red Lion Pub, Sutton, England (without Bill and Charlie, with Colin Golding on bass)

Dec. 21, 1963: Kayser Bondor Ballroom, Baldock, England

Dec. 21, 1964: Charlie publishes Ode to A High Flying Bird a book he wrote and illustrated in 1961. The story of a little bird, but it’s really about jazz great Charlie Parker. A replica of the book was later issued in 1991 as part of the From One Charlie CD box set.

Charlie Watts’ Ode to a High Flying Bird tells the story of a little bird as a tribute to jazz legend Charlie Parker, reflecting Watts’ deep love for jazz. In the early 1960s, Watts balanced a career as a graphic designer with part-time drumming, playing jazz in coffee bars and clubs around London. While at art school, he wrote and illustrated the book, merging his visual talent with his musical passion. In 1961 he met Alexis Korner, a key figure in British blues, but briefly chose design work in Denmark before committing fully to music. Joining The Rolling Stones in January 1963 shifted his focus, yet jazz remained central to his identity.

*Read more: The Rolling Stones’ Charlie Watts: From Illustrator to Drummer – The Story of “Ode To A High Flying Bird”

Dec. 21, 1969: Lyceum Theatre, London, England (2 shows) A packed house, as expected, and a heavy mood in the air. This was the Rolling Stones’ first time onstage back in England after Altamont. No grand statements, just solid playing, focused faces, and a band easing its way back into live music, letting the songs speak, steadying themselves, and reconnecting with an audience.

December 21, 2012: At 65, Ronnie marries his fiancee Sally Humphreys during a private ceremony in London.

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