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The Rolling Stones in the press: “Stones Disc Should Better ‘Come On’ “
THE ROLLING STONESI Wanna Be Your Man; Stoned (Decca F 11764) This is a Lennon and McCartney composition, and it has a very definite rock flavour. The vocal work is very much in the Stones’ style, and the backing is strong and full of beat. The boys had a big success with “Come On,” and this new release is a good type of song for them. There’s a great guitar line running through the number, and it has all the makings of a hit. The record work is much improved. The flip is an instrumental with a solid beat and some stone good guitar work by Ian Stewart and the road manager. There are vocal interjections and the whole thing is performed with plenty of spirit. *Reformulated text
Not Exactly a Smashing Start
When the Rolling Stones released their very first single Come On in 1963 they probably weren’t expecting a standing ovation—and, well, they didn’t get one. The song, a cover of a Chuck Berry tune, had the energy, the attitude, and the early swagger… but apparently not everyone was buying what the Stones were selling. Critics were quick to raise eyebrows (and not in a good way), questioning whether this scrappy blues-infused band would actually go anywhere. Spoiler alert: they did.
Critics: “Meh, Try Again”
One early review charmingly titled “Stones Disc Should Better ‘Come On’” took a jab at the band’s debut, suggesting the single lacked punch and should’ve, well, tried harder. Ouch. The vocals? Too raw. The playing? Too loose. The vibe? Not quite there yet, according to the skeptics. Some even wondered why Decca Records would sign a group that looked more like troublemakers than hitmakers. Classic case of judging the book by its messy, mop-haired cover.
Fifty Years Later: Who’s Laughing Now?
Looking back, the sarcasm writes itself. The same band that was doubted in 1963 has gone on to become, quite literally, the biggest rock band in history. Come On may not have set the world on fire, but it was the spark that started the blaze. And hey, what’s a legendary rock journey without a little bit of early rejection? The critics said “better come on”—and the Stones did, just with about five decades of world tours, timeless hits, and a career most bands can only dream of. So here’s to humble beginnings, skeptical reviews, and the glorious sound of being proven very wrong.
