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Rolling Stones Quotes: Keith Richards on touring with Bo Diddley in 1963 (2008)
“Watching Bo Diddley was university for me. Every set was twenty minutes long in those days. When he came off, if he had two strings left on the guitar, it was a fucking miracle. The Duchess was there, and Jerome Green, with the maracas in each hand. It was my job to be Jerome’s minder. I used to fetch him from the pub. You’re on, mate.”
About The Rolling Stones and Bo Diddley touring together in 1963
The Rolling Stones’ First Big Break: The Road to Stardom
In early 1963, the Rolling Stones were still a London club band, playing small gigs in pubs and underground venues. But everything changed that summer when they embarked on their first real adventure outside their hometown. In mid-July, they crammed into their old van and drove over 250 miles north to Middlesbrough, where they played the Alcove Club—marking their first step beyond their local fan base. This was just the beginning. Soon after, they hit the road for a two-and-a-half-month tour across the UK, playing clubs and ballrooms to promote their debut single, Come On, released in early June. With a little help from TV appearances, their hard work paid off. By the end of August, Come On climbed to No. 20 on the NME chart, proving that the Stones were gaining momentum.
Landing a Dream Tour
Even before they had fully settled into the grind of endless club gigs, co-manager Eric Easton had lined up something huge: a spot on a prestigious autumn package tour featuring the Everly Brothers—who had topped the UK charts four times—and the legendary Bo Diddley. Brian Jones was thrilled, telling the press, “This is a wonderful break for us. We’re looking forward to meeting the American duo. London doesn’t get enough attention these days, but we hope to change that!”
Sharing the Stage with Their Idol
The 30-date tour kicked off on September 29, 1963, at London’s New Victoria Theatre. For the Stones, the biggest excitement wasn’t just playing bigger venues—it was the chance to share the bill with one of their greatest influences, Bo Diddley. “For us, the big thrill is that Bo Diddley will be on the bill! He’s been one of our great influences,” they told NME. Out of respect, they even dropped all Bo Diddley covers from their setlist for the tour. This wasn’t about competition; it was about stepping into rock and roll history.
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