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Rolling Stones interviews, Japanese TV 1990

Mick, Bill, Ronnie and Keith interviews, Japanese TV 1990

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In 1990, after nearly three decades of rocking the world, the Rolling Stones finally made it to Japan for the first time. It might seem crazy now, but until then, the band had never played in the country. Strict drug laws and past controversies had kept them out, but with the start of the new decade, things finally changed.

The Steel Wheels tour brought them to the Tokyo Dome for a historic ten-night residency in February. Fans had been waiting for this moment for years, and they showed up in massive numbers—over 500,000 people attended the shows. The excitement was off the charts. The Stones didn’t disappoint, delivering powerhouse performances packed with classics like Jumpin’ Jack Flash, Honky Tonk Women, and Start Me Up, along with tracks from their then-latest album, Steel Wheels.

Mick Jagger was in top form, working the massive stage with his usual energy, while Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood traded riffs like it was second nature. Charlie Watts, as always, kept everything rock solid behind the kit. Japanese fans, known for their politeness, watched in awe but erupted in wild cheers between songs—something that surprised the band, who were used to rowdier crowds.

This tour was a big deal not just for Japan but for the Stones themselves. It marked a new era, proving they could still dominate stadiums worldwide. It also set the stage for their long-lasting love affair with Japan, as they’d return for many tours in the following years.

Their 1990 visit wasn’t just another tour stop—it was a long-overdue moment of rock history. The Rolling Stones had finally arrived in Japan, and they made sure no one would forget it.

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