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Rolling Stones unreleased: Miss You (early long version)
Written by: Jagger/Richards Recorded: Pathé Marconi Studios, Boulogne-Billancourt, France, Oct-Dec. 1977 (Some Girls sessions) Guest musicians: Ian McLagan (piano)
Miss You began as an impromptu jam between Mick Jagger and Billy Preston, with Jagger on guitar and Preston on drums. The initial idea emerged during rehearsals for the Stones’ March 1977 concert at Toronto’s El Mocambo. Mick’s frequent nights at Studio 54 exposed him to the pulsating beat of disco, inspiring the rhythmic foundation of the song. Keith Richards, initially skeptical, described it as “some disco shit” but agreed to develop it further. As the track evolved, the band realized they had a massive hit on their hands. However, crafting the final version wasn’t instant—producer Chris Kimsey recalls that it took about ten days to perfect the master recording.
The Groove That Defined Miss You
To capture the essence of the disco craze sweeping the world, Mick and Charlie Watts immersed themselves in club culture, listening to records to decode the genre’s secrets. Bill Wyman’s bass line, a defining feature of the song, was originally an idea from Billy Preston during a rough demo session a year prior. Wyman refined it, playing in octaves to create an irresistible groove. Charlie Watts, known for his jazz and rock expertise, delivered a commanding dance beat, locking in seamlessly with the bass.
Instrumentally, Ron Wood alternated lead licks with rhythm work, while Keith, not naturally drawn to disco, adapted his Telecaster playing to a funkier style. Ian McLagan’s Wurlitzer keyboard lines echoed Billy Preston’s touch, adding depth to the track. Saxophonist Mel Collins delivered a stellar solo, but the standout was Sugar Blue’s harmonica, which left Ron Wood in awe.
Mick Jagger in Miss You: A Vocal Chameleon
Mick Jagger fully embraces his role as a dance music frontman in Miss You, delivering a vocal performance that blends smooth falsetto with his signature bluesy grit. His ability to shift between these styles adds a dynamic edge to the song, capturing both the emotional longing of the lyrics and the infectious groove of the music. While stepping into the disco realm may have seemed like a departure from classic Rolling Stones territory, Jagger proves his versatility, making the transition feel natural and effortless. Complementing his lead vocals, Keith Richards and Ron Wood provide tight backing harmonies, enriching the song’s layered sound. In addition to his vocal prowess, Mick also contributes a steady rhythmic guitar part, further cementing his presence in this genre-blending hit.
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