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The Rolling Stones in the press: “Genuine R & B!”

*From the Record Mirror, England, May 11 1963
*Click for more YESTERDAY’S PAPERS

In May 1963 a short line in Record Mirror captured what set the Rolling Stones apart from the rest of the British beat boom. Calling them “genuine R&B,” the paper cut through the noise of imitation bands flooding the scene. The Stones didn’t sound polite or studied—they sounded hungry. Their early shows were loud, sweaty workouts built on Chuck Berry riffs, Bo Diddley rhythms, and Jimmy Reed grooves, played with total conviction. That early recognition mattered. It framed the Stones not as followers, but as true believers, laying the foundation for their reputation as rock’s rawest and most dangerous outsiders.

An Early Seal of Authenticity

On May 11, 1963, Record Mirror gave The Rolling Stones one of their first glowing endorsements by calling them “genuine R&B.” At a time when many British acts were simply borrowing from American rhythm and blues without fully grasping its soul, this statement stood out. The Stones weren’t just mimicking the sound—they were channeling it with raw conviction. Their early sets were packed with Chuck Berry, Bo Diddley, and Jimmy Reed covers, played with the gritty urgency of a band that not only loved the music but lived it. This recognition helped solidify the Stones’ place in a scene that was still unsure what to make of them.

Standing Out in a Pop-Centric Era

1963 Britain was awash in polished pop, but The Rolling Stones were steering in a different direction. Their appearance, attitude, and musical choices broke from the safe, commercial norm. The Record Mirror endorsement confirmed they weren’t just a rebellious novelty—they had authenticity. It wasn’t about fashion; it was about feel. That phrase, “genuine R&B,” became a quiet but powerful validation. Their gritty sound, raw energy, and deep respect for American blues traditions set them apart from their peers, hinting at the seismic impact they were about to unleash.

The Foundation of a Legacy

Looking back, that early praise was more than just a passing remark—it was a foundation stone in the band’s evolving identity. Decades later, The Rolling Stones remain deeply connected to their R&B roots. What Record Mirror picked up on in 1963 would define the band’s ethos for years to come: a commitment to rhythm, blues, and rock & roll that was—and still is—entirely genuine. (Ref. Rolling Stones Genuine R&B)

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