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Rolling Stones quotes: Mick Jagger Explains Choosing Ronnie Wood (1975)

In 1975, The Rolling Stones entered a pivotal moment that would redefine their sound and chemistry, as the search for a new guitarist began after Mick Taylor’s departure. Enter Ronnie Wood, a musician whose style and spirit already felt aligned with the band’s raw, unpolished energy. Having previously collaborated on “It’s Only Rock ’n’ Roll (But I Like It),” Wood wasn’t a stranger—he was a natural fit waiting in the wings. His arrival marked more than just a lineup change; it signaled a shift in attitude, one that blended musicianship with personality and instinct.

What made Ronnie Wood stand out was not only his guitar work but his ability to blend seamlessly into The Rolling Stones’ creative world. Coming from The Faces, he brought a sense of groove and camaraderie that matched the band’s evolving identity. By the time he joined the 1975 tour, it felt less like an audition and more like destiny unfolding in real time, setting the stage for a lasting legacy within the Stones.

“They can both play solo. I mean, Keith used to be a lead guitarist of the Rolling Stones, remember? Maybe Keith’s gonna have to do more solos. Now he’s gotten kind of into this rhythm guitar thing. I wanted someone that was easy to get on with, you know, that wasn’t too difficult and that was a good player and was used to playing onstage. It’s quite a lot to ask of someone to come and do a big American tour with a band like the Stones, you know?…

…I mean, not that I think the Stones are any really big deal, but it tends to be a bit of a paralyzing experience for people. You know what I mean? And I wanted someone that wasn’t going to be phased out. He can sing… a little. He’ll probably say a lot about that! He can sing. He’s starting to get it together… Onstage he’s got a lot of style. And it’s gotta be fun on the road. That’s what it’s all about, isn’t it?”

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Ronnie Wood Joins The Rolling Stones: A New Chapter Begins

In 1975, The Rolling Stones faced a significant transition with the departure of guitarist Mick Taylor. The band sought not only technical skill but also a personality that would seamlessly integrate into their dynamic. Ronnie Wood, known for his work with The Faces, emerged as a fitting choice. His previous collaboration with the Stones on the It’s Only Rock’n Roll (But I Like It) song had already demonstrated his compatibility with their style.

A Seamless Integration into the Band

Ronnie Wood’s transition from The Faces to The Rolling Stones was marked by mutual respect and shared musical vision. His inaugural tour with the Stones in 1975 was more than just a series of performances; it was a testament to his ability to mesh with the band’s rhythm and energy. Wood’s own reflections reveal a sense of destiny about his role in the band. He once remarked, “I was going to be in that band one way or another and I would broadcast the fact” . This determination, combined with his musical versatility, solidified his place in the Stones’ lineup. By 1976, Wood was not just a touring member but an official part of the band, contributing to albums like Black and Blue and leaving an indelible mark on their evolving sound.

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