The Rolling Stones’ ‘Down in the Hole’, Early Version (1979)

By Marcelo Sonaglioni on December 1, 2025

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Rolling Stones unreleased: Down in the Hole (early take)

Original title: Stuck in the Cold
Written by: Jagger/Richards
Recorded: EMI Pathé Marconi Studios, Boulogne-Billancourt, France, Jun. 21-Oct. 19 1979 (Emotional Rescue sessions)
*Data taken from Martin Elliott’s book THE ROLLING STONES COMPLETE RECORDING SESSIONS 1962-2012

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**More about Down in the Hole (early version) by The Rolling Stones**

*By Marcelo Sonaglioni

rolling stones unreleased down in the hole early take 1979

Back to the Roots: The Raw Power of Down in the Hole

Down in the Hole, originally titled Stuck in the Cold, is a rare gem from the Rolling Stones’ Emotional Rescue sessions, recorded in 1979 at the iconic EMI Pathé Marconi Studios in France. This early take drips with the raw grit and soul that define the Stones’ early blues-inspired sound, serving as a powerful reminder of their musical roots. Mick Jagger’s lyrics don’t shy away from heavy questions about life’s true value: Can money really buy forgiveness?

Does it protect us from madness, sickness, or pain? These existential themes are wrapped in a dark, brooding atmosphere that gives the track its haunting edge. The song captures a band reconnecting with its core sound, yet still wrestling with timeless human struggles, making it a compelling listen for any Stones fan or blues lover.

Unreleased Magic from the Emotional Rescue Era

Recorded between June and October 1979, this early version of Down in the Hole never made it onto the album (but the final version did), yet it reveals a fascinating side of the band’s creative process. Written by Jagger and Richards, this early take exposes the Stones experimenting with mood and moodiness, showcasing a raw authenticity that sometimes gets lost in polished studio releases. It’s a glimpse into a moment when the band balanced their rockstar status with deeper reflection — a moment that makes this unreleased track a true treasure for those who crave the soul beneath the swagger.

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