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Rolling Stones unreleased: Curtis Meets Smokey

Curtis Meets Smokey is one of those hidden Rolling Stones gems that captures the band at a raw, experimental moment. Recorded in 1969 during the Let It Bleed sessions, it wasn’t meant for the charts—more a loose jam honoring soul legends Curtis Mayfield and Smokey Robinson. The track grooves with smooth, laid-back energy, blending bluesy swagger with Motown-inspired soul, offering a rare glimpse into the Stones’ creative process. Circulating only through bootlegs, it showcases how the band absorbed American rhythm and emotion, translating it into their own style, connecting British rock with the heart and storytelling of classic soul. It’s a brief but revealing bridge between worlds.

Written by: Jagger/Richard
Recorded: Olympic Sound Studios, London, England, Apr.-July-Oct. 1969 (Let It Bleed sessions)
Guest musicians: Nicky Hopkins (piano), Ry Cooder (guitar)

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More about Curtis Meets Smokey by The Rolling Stones

*By Marcelo Sonaglioni

When The Stones Met Soul

Hidden away from official releases, Curtis Meets Smokey stands as one of those fascinating Rolling Stones curiosities that captures a raw moment in the band’s evolution. Recorded in 1969 during the Let It Bleed sessions, it was never meant to be a hit single — more like a musical jam that paid tribute to two of their biggest inspirations: Curtis Mayfield and Smokey Robinson. The track oozes a laid-back, groove-heavy feel, showing the Stones blending soul smoothness with their bluesy swagger. Circulating only through bootlegs, it gives fans a rare window into the band’s studio magic at one of their most creative peaks.

The Soul Behind the Inspiration

Curtis Mayfield, born in Chicago in 1942, was a pioneering soul and funk artist whose music carried a deep social message. As the driving force behind The Impressions and a successful solo artist, he fused gospel harmonies with sharp political commentary, crafting timeless songs like People Get Ready and Move On Up. Smokey Robinson, on the other hand, brought an entirely different kind of soul — silky, poetic, and deeply romantic. Born in Detroit in 1940, Smokey led The Miracles and became one of Motown’s defining songwriters, penning hits like The Tracks of My Tears and The Tears of a Clown.

In this the Rolling Stones weren’t just experimenting — they were connecting with the roots of what moved them most: authentic emotion, groove, and storytelling. It’s a track that bridges continents and genres, where British rockers met the spirit of American soul.

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