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Rolling Stones Unreleased:Some People Tell Me
*Early version of Keep Up Blues Written by: Jagger/Richard Recorded: EMI-Pathé Marconi Studios, Boulogne-Billancourt, France, Jan. 5-March 2 1978 (Some Girls sessions)
From Martin Elliott’s book THE ROLLING STONES COMPLETE RECORDING SESSIONS 1962-2012: Mick Jagger growls the lyrics to the song. One of the two guitarists plays a funky lick and another solos furiously in the background. “Well, that’s it”, as Jagger says at the end.
More about Some People Tell Me by The Rolling Stones
*By Marcelo Sonaglioni During the Some Girls sessions in 1978 at Pathé-Marconi Studios in Boulogne-Billancourt, the Rolling Stones were firing on all cylinders, experimenting with different grooves and sounds. One particular track from these sessions (Some People Tell Me, the original take of Keep Up Blues, which later appeared in the extended deluxe version of the album in 2011) captures the raw energy of the band, with Mick Jagger growling out the lyrics in his signature, attitude-filled style. His delivery is full of swagger, giving the song an edgy, almost sneering vibe.
Meanwhile, the band locks into a tight, infectious groove. One of the guitarists lays down a funky, rhythmic lick, adding a slick, danceable feel to the track. It’s the kind of riff that gets under your skin—simple, yet irresistibly groovy. In the background, another guitar rips through with a furious solo, weaving in and out of the mix with sharp, biting notes. The contrast between the steady funk rhythm and the wailing lead creates an electric dynamic, making the song feel both tight and unpredictable.
The Some Girls sessions were known for their creative spontaneity, and this recording is no exception. The band was embracing elements of funk, disco, and punk, pushing their sound in new directions while staying true to their bluesy, rock ‘n’ roll roots. You can almost picture the scene: Keith Richards and Ron Wood trading licks, Charlie Watts holding down the beat with effortless precision, and Bill Wyman’s bassline keeping everything anchored.
These sessions would ultimately produce one of the band’s most celebrated albums, but they also left behind a treasure trove of outtakes and jams, some of which remain unreleased gems. This particular track, with its mix of funky riffs, searing solos, and Jagger’s unmistakable snarl, is a perfect snapshot of the Stones at their raw, unfiltered best.
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