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Rolling Stones unreleased:All Down the Line (acoustic version)
Written by: Jagger/Richard Recorded: Olympic Sound Studios, London, England, June 5-July 3 1969
From Martin Elliott’s book THE ROLLING STONES COMPLETE RECORDING SESSIONS 1962-2012: All Down the Line was re-recorded in 1971 for the Exile On Main St. album. This acoustic guitar version recorded in June-July 1969 was principally instrumental. Mick Jagger only sang a brief vocal line for guide purposes indicating the lyrics were unfinished, although the chorus was definitely “all down the line”. Testimony to this, the earlier recording date can be confirmed by referece to the copyright credits which were the same as other ‘sixties material’ (Essex Music International Ltd.) Some of their best rockers were acoustic and this is no exception, a great outtake!
Building a Classic: The Sonic Evolution of All Down the Line
Before it became one of the standout tracks on Exile on Main St., All Down the Line took a long and winding road through The Rolling Stones’ creative process. Starting as an acoustic demo in 1969, this Glimmer Twins composition underwent significant transformations, including an early electric version recorded during the Sticky Fingers sessions.
But it was in the basement of Nellcôte where the song found its true identity. Keith Richards brought it roaring to life with a gritty, signature open-G riff on his Telecaster, amplified through his beloved Ampeg to achieve that unmistakable sound. Backing him with spirited groove, Jimmy Miller added vibrant tambourine textures, while Charlie Watts laid down a crisp, swaggering beat. Bill Wyman’s bass anchored the rhythm section with punch and precision, but it’s Mick Taylor’s fiery slide guitar on his Les Paul that takes the spotlight—turning this track into a masterclass of Stones musicianship.
Rediscovering a Hidden Gem: The Rolling Stones’ Early Acoustic Takeof All Down the Line
Long before its official re-recording for Exile on Main St. in 1971, All Down the Line had already started taking shape in a quieter, more stripped-down form. Captured between June and July of 1969, this early acoustic version shows a different side of The Rolling Stones—a band just as potent unplugged as they were electric. With its mainly instrumental setup and only a fleeting vocal line from Mick Jagger, it’s clear the lyrics were still a work in progress, though the chorus had already taken root.
What makes this version so fascinating is not just its raw charm, but also its placement in the Stones’ timeline. The copyright credits—Essex Music International Ltd.—tie it to their 1960s material, giving it an added layer of authenticity. As with many of their lesser-known acoustic tracks, this outtake proves that even in demo form, the Stones knew how to rock—all down the line.
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