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Hidden in the Rolling Stones’ archives is a loose, bluesy take on The Fat Man that captures the band at their most unfiltered. Recorded during the Some Girls tour rehearsals at Bearsville Studios in 1978, it’s less about polish and more about pure feel—five musicians locking into a groove for the sheer joy of it. This Fats Domino classic, co-written with Dave Bartholomew, wasn’t chosen by accident; it reflects the very roots that shaped the Stones’ sound. With Ian McLagan adding punchy piano, the track becomes a spirited tribute. It’s not just a cover—it’s a reminder of where rock ’n’ roll really began.
Written by: Antoine Domino/Dave Bartholomew Recorded: Bearsville Studios, Woodstock, NY, USA, May-June 1978 Guest musicians: Ian McLagan (piano)
Digging Deep: The Rolling Stones Take on The Fat Man
Tucked away in the vaults of Stones lore is a bluesy, rollicking gem that never made it to an official release: The Fat Man. Recorded during tour rehearsals at Bearsville Studios in Woodstock, New York, between May and June of 1978, this track showcases the Stones in one of their rawest, loosest forms. At the time, the band was gearing up for their U.S. tour following the release of Some Girls, and their rehearsal sessions were a playground of musical exploration. Amid jamming, refining setlists, and channeling the gritty energy of their new material, they threw in this lively Fats Domino cover. With its rich New Orleans roots, The Fat Man gave the band a chance to stretch into rhythm and blues territory, tipping their hats to the very sound that helped shape them.
Roots Revival: Honoring a Pioneer with a Piano Punch
Originally written by Antoine ‘Fats’ Domino and Dave Bartholomew, The Fat Man stands as a cornerstone of early rock ‘n’ roll and R&B. It was first recorded in 1949 and is often cited as one of the first true rock records. For the Stones, this wasn’t just a casual cover—it was a nod to one of their musical heroes. Bringing in guest pianist Ian McLagan, best known for his work with the Small Faces and the Faces, added an extra punch to the track, enhancing its boogie-woogie flair. Though the song never made it onto a record, its existence offers a glimpse into the Stones’ deep appreciation for the legends who came before them. It’s a powerful reminder of how their music often paid tribute to the greats while keeping their own rebellious spirit alive.
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