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The Rolling Stones in the press: “We’ve put a keyboard on every new track”
“We’ve Put a Keyboard on Every New Track”, said Keith Richards in 1966. In fact the Stones’ Aftermath album marked a notable shift in the band’s musical evolution, especially with the expanded use of keyboards. This album was a departure from their earlier, more straightforward rock and blues roots, embracing a more experimental and diverse sound. Keyboards played a crucial role in this transformation, contributing to the album’s rich, textured production.
One of the most prominent keyboard contributions on Aftermath was from Brian Jones, who was increasingly involved in playing various instruments, including the piano and organ. His work on songs like Under My Thumb and Lady Jane helped define the mood and atmosphere of the album. Jones’s classical training and musical versatility were vital in incorporating the keyboard sounds (and all kinds of instrument he could put his hands on, that’s how versatile Brian was!) that would become more prominent in later Stones albums.
The keyboard contributions on Aftermath were crucial to the Rolling Stones’ musical development, providing a richness and complexity that enhanced their overall sound. This marked a significant shift in their approach, introducing more layers and textures that would become integral to their future work. The keyboards, especially those played by Brian Jones, added a new dimension to the band’s style, helping to expand their sonic palette beyond the traditional rock and blues they had previously embraced.
The use of instruments like the harpsichord, organ, and electric piano brought a more sophisticated, varied feel to the album. These sounds not only complemented the band’s evolving musical identity but also paved the way for the intricate arrangements and experimental production techniques they would explore in subsequent records.
For the Rolling Stones, Aftermath represented a pivotal moment, a time when they moved away from their earlier, more straightforward approach and embraced a broader, more versatile sound. This shift was a reflection of their desire to experiment and grow as musicians, setting the stage for the groundbreaking albums that followed. The period marked their transition into a more creative and dynamic phase, one that would see them continually push musical boundaries in new and unexpected directions.
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