By Sheila Mckenzie-
The legendary Rolling Stones have announced their upcoming 24th album, “Hackney Diamonds,” set to release on October 20.
This eagerly anticipated album not only marks the band’s return to the studio but also pays tribute to their late drummer, Charlie Watts, who passed away in 2021.
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After announcing a new set of features at a globally live-streamed event from Hackney Empire in East London last Wednesday (which was hosted by The Tonight Show host Jimmy Fallon. Here, Keith Richards, Mick Jagger and Ronnie Wood shared details on the upcoming release, and confirmed it will be their first new music in 18 years – following on from 2005’s ‘A Bigger Bang’.
However, today a new star-studded lineup revealing the Stone’s collaboration with some of the music industry’s biggest icons
As rumored, Paul McCartney plays bass on one song (“Bite My Head Off”) and Elton John plays piano on two (“Get Close” and the aforementioned “Live By the Sword”). “Sweet Sounds of Heaven” features vocals from Lady Gaga and keys & piano from Stevie Wonder
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These musical legends joined forces to create a record that promises to be a remarkable addition to the band’s extensive discography.
“Wonder and Gaga contributed keyboards and vocals, respectively, to the track ‘Sweet Sounds of Heaven,’ while John plays piano on ‘Live by the Sword,’ which also features Wyman. McCartney also added some bass to the song ‘Bite My Head Off,'” the band revealed.
This musical amalgamation transcends generations and genres, bringing together artists who have left an indelible mark on the music landscape.
It is a testament to the enduring influence and appeal of the Rolling Stones that such revered musicians were eager to collaborate with them.
“Hackney Diamonds” is a monumental release for the Rolling Stones, as it marks their first album of original material in 18 years, following their 2005 release, “A Bigger Bang.”
The absence of Charlie Watts, whose inimitable drumming defined the band’s sound for decades, is palpable. Watts, however, makes a posthumous appearance on the album, featuring on the songs “Live By The Sword” and “Mess It Up,” which he originally recorded with the band in 2019. These tracks serve as a poignant tribute to the late drummer’s enduring legacy.
Richards spoke fondly of Watts during the band’s recent livestream reveal of the album from Hackney, London. “Ever since Charlie’s gone, he’s been missed,” he said.
“He’s number four. Of course, he’s missed incredibly, but thanks to Charlie, we have Steve Jordan, who was Charlie’s recommendation. If anything should happen to him, Steve Jordan is your man.”
Steve Jordan, the band’s new drummer, steps into enormous shoes but has been seamlessly integrated into the group. His presence on the remaining tracks of “Hackney Diamonds” reflects the band’s commitment to carrying on and evolving despite the loss of a key member.
The album itself is a testament to the band’s enduring creativity and vitality. Despite some tracks being years in the making, “Hackney Diamonds” came together swiftly. Mick Jagger noted.
“We do like four or five takes. ‘OK,’ and we move on. So no one had time to really think, ‘Well, was this a good song? Should we be doing this song?’ Because I get introspective, you know.
Is this song as good as the other one? Is this song like another one I’ve done? You can figure that out later. Let’s keep moving.”
Keith Richards added with his characteristic wit, “We worked fast, but that was the idea. I’m still recovering.”
One significant contributor to the album’s energy and urgency is the producer, Andrew Watt. Known for his work with music legends like Ozzy Osbourne, Iggy Pop, Pearl Jam, Eddie Vedder, and Miley Cyrus, Watt brought a unique perspective to the Stones’ sound.
“I wanted it to sound huge because they are larger than life,” Watt stated. “They’re the Stones. When you listen to this album, you should picture the Stones playing in a stadium because that’s what they are.”
As anticipation builds for “Hackney Diamonds,” fans are already looking forward to what comes next. Watts hinted at the possibility of a 25th album from the Stones, saying, “I don’t think it’s the last Rolling Stones album.” This tantalizing prospect leaves fans hopeful for more iconic music from one of the greatest rock bands in history.
In a world where music evolves and tastes change, the Rolling Stones remain an enduring force, proving that age is just a number when it comes to rocking the stage and making timeless music. “Hackney Diamonds” is poised to be a shining gem in their remarkable musical legacy, and the band’s journey is far from over.
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