The Rolling Stones have undergone several lineup changes over the years, particularly to fill the position of lead guitarist, despite being the band that most rock and roll fans undoubtedly think of first when the word “longevity” is mentioned. Following Brian Jones’s dismissal in 1969, the band’s guitarist Mick Taylor took over as lead guitarist until he decided to leave in 1974. Ronnie Wood then took over in 1975 and has remained a member of the group ever since.
It’s interesting to note that the band nearly had the late, great guitarist Jeff Beck on board, as Keith Richards revealed in an interview with Guitar Player. Wood contributed to the first two Jeff Beck Group recordings as a bass player.
Keith Richards recalls that Jeff Beck almost joined The Rolling Stones
Keith recalled, “We felt that Jeff had his own furrow to plow and that he was not a team man, He was a soloist to the max. He was such an individualist. It wouldn’t have worked with the Stones at all. We’re all about teamwork.”
He added, “But don’t get me wrong, he was a tremendous player, The odd times we got together, I was always amazed by the stuff that he did with his tremolo bar. He was one of the best, man, and he’s going to be missed.”
Jeff Beck recorded 11 live albums and 17 studio albums during his solo career, which spanned six decades. “People Get Ready,” “Hi Ho Silver,” “Cause We’ve Ended as Lovers,” and “Come Dancing” are a few of his most well-known solo hits. He worked with many other well-known performers, including Roger Waters, Mick Jagger, Tina Turner, Stevie Wonder, and more. At the age of 78, Beck began his career in 1964 and continued it until his death in 2023.
He has already performed live numerous times as a special guest of the Rolling Stones and has recorded songs with Mick Jagger.
Presently, The Rolling Stones are marketing their first album in over eighteen years. The record, titled “Hackney Diamonds,” has appearances by Paul McCartney, Lady Gaga, Elton John, and Stevie Wonder, among others.