The legendary Rolling Stones, those marvels of modern musicality, marked the eve of their first original album release in 18 years with an electric Manhattan club performance.
In the presence of a star-studded audience, graced by luminaries like Bridgehampton’s Christie Brinkley, Elvis Costello, and Trevor Noah, the Stones created an unforgettable auditory spectacle at Racket NYC. The setlist comprised seven powerful songs, with four gems hailing from their latest creation, “Hackney Diamonds.”
Mick Jagger, ever the showman, harked back to the band’s storied history of promoting new music in the city, from performing on a flatbed truck on Fifth Avenue to their groundbreaking antics. Their salute to the Big Apple began with the punk-infused ’70s anthem, “Shattered,” echoing the lyric, “my brain’s been splattered all over Manhattan.”
After delivering the fresh single, “Angry,” Jagger, with a sly grin, remarked to his bandmates, “There’s a first time for everything.”
With the irreplaceable loss of drummer Charlie Watts in 2021, the Stones now stand as a core trio, featuring the indomitable Jagger and the ever-vital guitarists Keith Richards and Ron Wood, accompanied on stage by four gifted musicians.
The arrival of “Hackney Diamonds” has rekindled the fervor of fans who had questioned whether the Rolling Stones would ever grace the world with new musical offerings. The album has garnered critical acclaim, with many highlighting the band’s enduring energy and verve.
This vitality was unmistakably on display during the performance in the heart of Manhattan’s Meatpacking district. Preceded by a DJ set by the incomparable Questlove, Jagger strutted and prowled across a stage that, though smaller than their grand arenas, exuded a sense of intimacy. Now in his eighties, Jagger defied time, moving with the agility of a man half his age. His iconic tongue made a brief appearance as he paused to catch his breath after another punk-inspired rendition, “Bite My Head Off.”
Before launching into the timeless classic “Jumpin’ Jack Flash,” Jagger playfully quipped, “You might be familiar with this one,” as Keith Richards began the unmistakable opening riff, instantly reasserting the Stones’ authority over a song that has been emulated countless times since its release 55 years ago.
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Our Reader’s Queries
Why are the Rolling Stones so popular?
Charlie Watts’s electrifying drumming, Keith Richards’s commanding guitar mastery, and Mick Jagger’s captivating vocals and stage presence catapulted them to legendary status, solidifying their place as one of the most influential bands in music history. Their enduring success over the years further cements their impact.
Are the Rolling Stones going to tour in 2024?
Get ready, because the moment you’ve been eagerly anticipating is finally here the Rolling Stones are ready to rock the stage once again! We couldn’t be more excited to unveil the Hackney Diamonds leg of the Stones Tour 2024!
Where does Keith Richards live now?
On Oct. 20, 2023, the Stones dropped their latest album, Hackney Diamonds their first release since 2005. The album also boasts appearances from music icons like Paul McCartney, Stevie Wonder, Elton John, and Lady Gaga.