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I’ll Let You Know stands as one of those Rolling Stones unreleased tracks that feels like a near-miss masterpiece. Recorded in 1978 at RCA Studios in Los Angeles, it blends country rock textures with a relaxed, atmospheric groove, showcasing the band’s ability to explore new sonic ground. With contributions from Ian McLagan, Ron Wood, Mick Jagger, and Keith Richards, the track hints at something bigger just beneath the surface. Yet its unfinished nature only adds to the mystique—capturing a moment in the studio where inspiration was real, but never fully realized, leaving behind a rare glimpse into the Stones’ creative process.
Written by: Jagger/Richards Recorded: RCA Studios, Los Angeles, USA, Aug-Sept. 1978 Guest musicians: Ian McLagan (keyboards)
From Martin Elliott’s book The Rolling Stones Complete Recording Sessions 1962-2012: I’ll Let You Know is an instrumental which looked as though it could have been worked on further. It has Ron Wood on bass and pedal steel, Ian McLagan on organ and Mick Jagger playing electric piano. Keith Richards does a hook and riff that confirms the song’s country rock influenced potential. Ian McLagan recalls that Keith was about to record some vocals to the track when he fell asleep at the microphone and, when he awoke, the lyrics had vanished from his head
I’ll Let You Know: A Country Rock Gem That Almost Was
Recorded in the summer of 1978 at RCA Studios in Los Angeles,I’ll Let You Know is a fascinating instrumental by The Rolling Stones that shows glimpses of what could have been a standout track. With its roots planted in country rock, the song features a distinctive collaboration between the band and guest musician Ian McLagan, who contributes his skills on the organ.
The track showcases Ron Wood’s versatile bass and pedal steel work, providing a smooth, almost dream-like foundation. Meanwhile, Mick Jagger adds his own touch with electric piano, creating a laid-back, yet compelling atmosphere. Keith Richards, ever the riff master, contributes a hook and riff that tie the song firmly to country rock influences, hinting at its full potential.
An Unfinished Session and a Curious Moment
However, what could have been a fully realized track was left unfinished. Ian McLagan recalls a rather amusing and curious moment during the recording process. Keith, preparing to lay down some vocals for the track, fell asleep at the microphone. When he awoke, the lyrics he had intended to sing had completely slipped from his mind, and the song was left without the vocals that could have taken it to another level. This missed opportunity leftI’ll Let You Know lingering in an unfinished state, a country rock gem that never fully materialized.
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