‘Putty In Your Hands’: The Rolling Stones’ Unreleased Take on The Shirelles Classic (1985)

By Marcelo Sonaglioni on February 14, 2025

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Rolling Stones unreleased: Putty in Your Hands

Written by: John Patton/Kay Rogers
Recorded: Pathé-Marconi Studios, Boulogne-Billancourt, France, May 17 1985 (Dirty Work sessions)
Guest musicians: Chuck Leavell (keyboards)

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Putty in Your Hands is one of those hidden gems from the early ’60s R&B scene, brought to life by The Shirelles in 1962. While it may not be as famous as Will You Love Me Tomorrow or Mama Said, this track perfectly captures the sweet yet heart-wrenching vulnerability that made the girl group era so special.

The lyrics paint a picture of complete devotion—being so in love that you’re like putty, easily molded and controlled by the person you adore. It’s a theme that fits right into the era’s love-struck, teen-romance vibe, but The Shirelles bring a certain maturity and depth to it with their smooth harmonies and heartfelt delivery. Their vocals glide effortlessly over a simple but infectious R&B groove, creating a track that’s both tender and subtly powerful.

Musically, Putty in Your Hands has a laid-back but groovy feel, with steady drums, soft guitar licks, and just the right amount of attitude in the vocals. It’s the kind of song that sneaks up on you—before you know it, you’re humming along, caught in its hypnotic rhythm.

Though The Shirelles’ version remains the definitive take, Putty in Your Hands later found new life in the hands of rock bands like The Yardbirds, who cranked up the energy and gave it a rougher, more rebellious edge. Even so, there’s something about the original that just hits different—it’s pure, soulful, and effortlessly cool.

Whether you’re a longtime fan of The Shirelles or just diving into their catalog, this track is a must-listen. It’s a reminder of why they were pioneers of the girl group sound, blending emotion, melody, and timeless charm into every note.

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