The Rolling Stones: Before ‘Dandelion’ (1966)

By Marcelo Sonaglioni on March 21, 2026

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Rolling Stones unreleased: Sometimes Happy, Sometimes Blue

*Click for MORE STONES UNRELEASED TRACKS

Often overshadowed by its A-side, Dandelion quietly blooms as one of the most intriguing experiments in The Rolling Stones’ catalog. Released during a time of bold sonic exploration, the track blends whimsy with psychedelic flair, hinting at the creative shift that would define their late-’60s work. What makes it even more fascinating is the subtle presence of voices from rock’s inner circle, adding an unexpected layer to its charm. Far from just a B-side, Dandelion, here in its early version, captures a moment when boundaries blurred, collaborations happened naturally, and the Stones leaned fully into their most colorful and imaginative phase.

*Early version of Dandelion
Alternate title: Fairground
Written by: Jagger/Richard
Recorded: Olympic Sound Studios London, England, Nov. 9-Dec. 6 1966
*Data taken from Martin Elliott’s book The Rolling Stones Complete Recording Sessions 1962-2012

rolling stones unreleased sometimes happy sometimes blue 1967

**From Sometimes Happy, Sometimes Blue to Dandelion: A Psychedelic Gem by The Rolling Stones**

Released in 1967 as the B-side to We Love You, Dandelion is one of The Rolling Stones’ most whimsical and melodic tracks from their psychedelic era. Featuring dreamy harmonies, baroque instrumentation, and poetic lyrics, the song offers a softer, more reflective contrast to the band’s usual rock and blues-driven sound.

Lyrically, Dandelion evokes a sense of fleeting innocence and change, with its lines suggesting both joy and melancholy—hence its original title Sometimes Happy, Sometimes Blue. The song’s gentle, singalong quality and childlike imagery make it a unique entry in The Stones’ catalog, fitting perfectly with the psychedelic atmosphere of the late ’60s. Mick Jagger’s delicate vocal delivery, paired with Keith Richards’ intricate guitar work and Brian Jones’ influence on the arrangement, creates a lush, layered sound that enhances its whimsical nature.

Dandelion: A Hidden Gem in The Rolling Stones’ Psychedelic Era

Though it was released as a B-side, Dandelion received significant airplay and continues to be a favorite among fans of The Rolling Stones’ more experimental work. The track also features background vocals from John Lennon and Paul McCartney, further solidifying its place in rock history. A hidden gem from the period leading up to Their Satanic Majesties Request, Dandelion showcases The Rolling Stones experimenting with new sounds.

With its dreamy melodies and psychedelic vibes, the track stands out as both nostalgic and timeless. It captures a moment when the band was pushing beyond their blues-based roots and embracing a more whimsical and intricate style. As for Sometimes Happy, Sometimes Blue, the original working title of the track, it’s available in bootlegs like Have You Heard The Outtakes, Baby, Recorded In The Shadow?, and The Last Time – Through The Vaults Darkly Volume 3, among many others.

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