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Deep within the prolific 1965 output of The Rolling Stones, Looking Tiredemerges as a compelling “what-if” in rock history. Recorded during the Aftermath sessions, the track reflects a band in transition—moving beyond blues roots while shaping a distinct identity. Its laid-back acoustic texture and subtle piano create an intimate, almost off-the-cuff atmosphere that contrasts with their rising fame. More than a simple outtake, Looking Tired offers a revealing glimpse into the Stones’ creative process, showing how even sidelined material enriches their legacy.
Written by: Jagger/Richard Recorded: RCA Studios, Hollywood, CA, USA, Sept. 6-7, Dec. 3-8 1965 (Aftermath sessions)
From Martin Elliott’s book The Rolling Stones Complete Recording Sessions 1962-2012: Looking Tired (probably a description of their current state of minds) was originally set for inclusion on an album called Could You Walk On the Water?. It is a mid-tempo rock song, featuring nimble acoustic guitar an a casually played piano. It avoided official release. It is much sought-after, but for its rarity appeal, rather than the musical quality.
The Rolling Stones’ Looking Tired: A Glimpse into a Shelved Classic
*By Marcelo Sonaglioni
Buried deep in the vaults of the Rolling Stones’ 1965 recording sessions lies Looking Tired, a track that never quite saw the light of day but has lingered in fan lore ever since. Captured during the prolific Aftermathsessions at RCA Studios in Hollywood, the song embodies a moment of transition—when the Stones were evolving beyond their bluesy roots and carving out their own sonic identity. The title itself, Looking Tired, could very well reflect the band’s mental and physical state at the time, given the relentless pace of touring and recording that marked the mid-’60s for them. With its laid-back acoustic guitar work and a piano that feels more like a casual conversation than a studio performance, the track has a raw, unfiltered charm.
The Allure of the Unreleased
Despite its absence from any formal release, Looking Tired has become a fan-favorite rarity—not because it’s musically groundbreaking, but because of its elusiveness. This mid-tempo rock tune is one of those hidden Stones gems collectors chase, more for its status as an unreleased oddity than for its compositional strength. It’s a window into the Stones’ creative process, revealing the less polished corners of their catalogue. Written by Jagger and Richards, it’s another reminder of the sheer volume of material they generated during this fertile period. While it may never sit alongside their biggest hits, Looking Tired offers something equally valuable: a glimpse into what could’ve been—and a deeper appreciation for the choices that shaped the band’s iconic discography.
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