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Bill Wyman and Keith Richards about pre-Elvis Presley music
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Bill: “Before I took up an instrument I heard something that really did astound me: Les Paul and Mary Ford singing The World Is Waiting For the Sunrise. I heard the electric guitar and that amazing stuff Les Paul did: I’ve been a fan ever since. That was like 2 or 3 years before Elvis. I always wanted to be in a band, because I’d done some piano lessons as a really small boy, passed two grades.”
Keith: “There was some very good jazz. And all those novelty songs – Shut the Door (They’re Comin’ Through the Window) – a barrage of that banality. But luckily, through my mother, I was listening to Billie Holiday and Louis Armstrong and stuff, you know? And through jazz, I knew quite a lot about black music.” (Ref. pre elvis presley)

The Rolling Stones, one of the most iconic rock bands in history, have left an indelible mark on the music world. Known for their energetic performances and timeless hits, the band has been a driving force in shaping the landscape of rock ‘n’ roll. But have you ever wondered about their thoughts on pre-Elvis Presley music? Let’s dive into the opinions of Bill Wyman and Keith Richards, two pillars of The Rolling Stones.
Bill Wyman, the bassist of the band, has always been a musical connoisseur with a deep appreciation for various genres. When asked about the music that preceded the rise of Elvis Presley, Wyman reminisced about the diverse sounds that influenced him. He emphasized the importance of rhythm and blues and highlighted how its raw energy laid the foundation for rock ‘n’ roll. According to Wyman, these earlier tunes served as a source of inspiration for The Rolling Stones’ own sound.
On the other hand, Keith Richards, the legendary guitarist of The Rolling Stones, has openly expressed his admiration for pre-Elvis music and the pioneers who paved the way for rock ‘n’ roll. Richards has often referred to artists like Chuck Berry and Muddy Waters as his early idols. He believes that their innovative styles and electrifying performances helped shape his own musical journey. Richards acknowledges the impact of these early rock ‘n’ roll pioneers, recognizing the debt the Stones owe to them. Both Wyman and Richards agree that pre-Elvis music was a crucial catalyst for the emergence of rock ‘n’ roll, and ultimately, for the sound of The Rolling Stones.
They appreciate the roots and influences that go beyond Elvis Presley’s groundbreaking contributions, acknowledging the rich tapestry of music that laid the groundwork for their own success. In conclusion, The Rolling Stones’ members appreciate the significance of pre-Elvis Presley music and its impact on their own musical evolution. Their eclectic blend of blues, rock, and rhythm has captivated audiences for decades, and it all stands on the shoulders of the pioneering artists who came before them.
Categories: Quotes