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The Rolling Stones in the press: “Free Stones Maxi Single”
Before Exile On Main St.became legend, The Rolling Stones quietly dropped a clue—pressed onto a flimsy, unforgettable flexi disc. Released with New Musical Express in April 1972, this rare giveaway wasn’t just a promo; it was a statement. Stripped of polish and full of grit, the preview hinted at a band ditching perfection for pure feel. Early fragments like Exile On Main St. Blues revealed a looser, risk-taking Stones, leaning hard into blues roots and studio spontaneity. For fans, it wasn’t just a teaser—it was the first spark of an album that would redefine rock authenticity.
The Rolling Stones: 1972 NME Flexi Single – A Sneak Peek of Exile On Main St.
On April 29, 1972 The Rolling Stones surprised fans with an exclusive treat — a 7″ flexi single included as a supplement to the British music magazine New Musical Express. This special release was a sneak peek into their highly anticipated album Exile On Main St., offering fans a rare glimpse into the creative process behind one of the most iconic rock albums in history.
The free Stones flexi single featured excerpts from Exile, giving listeners a first taste of the raw, experimental energy the band was channeling during the recording sessions. Among the tracks was Exile On Main St. Blues, a rough-cut gem that perfectly captured the album’s gritty, bluesy vibe, blending Mick Jagger’s gritty vocals with Keith Richards’ distinctive guitar riffing. The song’s stripped-back production contrasted sharply with the elaborate studio setups used in previous albums, signaling the Stones’ return to their roots.
This promotional single was more than just a preview — it was a symbol of the changing tides in rock music. At a time when the industry was heavily invested in polished studio production, The Rolling Stones embraced a more authentic, raw sound that would become a hallmark of the album The flexibility of the flexi disc itself reflected the Stones’ freedom to experiment and break away from the conventional ways of making music.
Fans of the band eagerly snatched up the NME issue, knowing this flexi single was a one-of-a-kind treasure. The release set the stage for Exile On Main St., which would later go on to become one of the most beloved albums in rock history.
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