The Stone Age

The Stone Age by Lesley-Ann Jones explores the remarkable journey of The Rolling Stones, from their first-ever gig at London's Marquee jazz club on 12 July 1962, to becoming one of the most influential rock bands in history.

Initially known as the Rollin' Stones, the band added a 'g', igniting a spark that would set their destiny. These five white British youths aimed to emulate the music of black America, blending bluesy undertones with dark themes of women, sex, and drugs. Despite being denounced as 'corruptors of youth' and 'messengers of the devil', they created some of the most thrilling music ever recorded.

Today, their sound and attitude resonate louder and more influentially than ever. While Elvis is dead and the Beatles are over, Mick Jagger and Keith Richards continue to command global presence. The Stones may be gathering moss, but their journey rolls on.

Yet, how did these ultimate anti-establishment misfits transform into the global brand we recognise today? Who were the casualties along the way, and what are the forgotten legacies? Can the artist ever be truly separated from the art they create?

Jones's new history of the band tracks this contradictory, disturbing, and unstoppable force through phases of hope, glory, and exile, into the juggernaut years and beyond. The Stones find themselves more at odds than ever with the values and heritage they once rebelled against.

Good, bad, and often ugly, here are the Rolling Stones as never before.