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Rolling Stones unreleased: Rocket 88
Written by: Jackie Brenston Recorded: Rehearsals for the upcoming US tour, Bearsville Studios, Woodstock, NY, USA, May-June 1978 Guest musicians: Ian McLagan (piano)
*By Marcelo Sonaglioni The Rolling Stones’ Woodstock rehearsals in 1978 were a fascinating prelude to what would become one of the most iconic and chaotic tours in the band’s history. The rehearsals took place at a farm in upstate New York, where the band, gearing up for their Some Girls Tour, began to work through the setlist and get into the groove of their upcoming performances.
The 1978 tour was a crucial one for the Stones, following the tumultuous years of the mid-70s, and their preparation at Woodstock set the stage for what was to come. The rehearsals themselves were notably informal, reflecting the Stones’ reputation for having a laid-back approach to preparing for live shows, yet the energy was high, filled with a mix of anticipation and excitement. The rehearsals allowed the Stones to refine their live performance, especially as they were preparing to bring new energy and sound to their concerts.
Although the rehearsals were not publicly known at the time, they gave the band a chance to experiment with their sound, blending punk, disco, and rock influences. Keith Richards, Mick Jagger, Charlie Watts, and Ronnie Wood were all present, each bringing their own flair and energy to the sessions.
In retrospect, these rehearsals were a key moment in the Stones’ musical evolution, offering a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the creative process that helped shape one of the most legendary tours in rock history. The resulting performances would show the Stones at their best—raw, energetic, and determined to stay on top.
Rocket 88, recorded in 1951 by Jackie Brenston and His Delta Cats, is often credited as one of the first rock and roll songs. Produced by Sam Phillips at Sun Studios in Memphis, the song features a driving rhythm, boogie-woogie piano, and Brenston’s energetic saxophone. It tells the story of a man driving his new car, the Oldsmobile 88, and showcases themes of freedom and modernity, which resonated with audiences. The track’s distorted guitar sound, achieved through a damaged amp, added a raw, rebellious edge that would become a hallmark of rock and roll. Rocket 88 laid the foundation for future rock music.
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