Rise to Fame: Uncovering the Rolling Stones’ First Hit

The Rolling Stones are one of the most iconic and enduring rock bands of all time, with a career spanning over five decades and a plethora of hits that have become ingrained in popular culture. But have you ever wondered what their first hit was? In this article, we’ll delve into the history of the Rolling Stones, exploring their early days, the song that catapulted them to fame, and the impact it had on their subsequent success.

The Early Days: Formation and Influences

The Rolling Stones formed in London in 1962, brought together by a shared passion for blues and rock ‘n’ roll music. The original lineup consisted of Mick Jagger (vocals, harmonica), Keith Richards (guitar, vocals), Brian Jones (guitar, harmonica), Bill Wyman (bass), and Charlie Watts (drums). The band’s name was inspired by a Muddy Waters song, “Rollin’ Stone Blues,” which reflects their deep respect for American blues and rock ‘n’ roll legends.

The Rolling Stones were heavily influenced by artists such as Chuck Berry, Bo Diddley, and Little Richard, who had a profound impact on the development of their unique sound. The band’s early performances were characterized by their raw energy, rebellious attitude, and eclectic blend of blues, rock ‘n’ roll, and R&B.

The Birth of a Hit: “Come On” (1963)

In June 1963, the Rolling Stones released their debut single, “Come On,” a cover of a 1961 song by American singer-songwriter Chuck Berry. This upbeat, energetic track marked the band’s first foray into the charts, peaking at number 21 on the UK Singles Chart. Although it wasn’t an immediate smash hit, “Come On” played a crucial role in introducing the Rolling Stones to a wider audience and setting the stage for their future success.

The song’s Chuck Berry-inspired rhythm and blues sound, combined with Mick Jagger’s distinctive vocals, helped establish the Rolling Stones as a force to be reckoned with in the British music scene.

The Breakthrough: “Not Fade Away” (1964)

In February 1964, the Rolling Stones released their second single, “Not Fade Away,” a Buddy Holly cover that would become their first top-10 hit in the UK. This song’s success can be attributed to the band’s growing popularity, as well as their ability to adapt and make the song their own.

“Not Fade Away” features a more polished production than “Come On,” with a greater emphasis on harmonies and a more refined sound. This was largely due to the band’s work with producer Andrew Loog Oldham, who helped them craft a more radio-friendly sound.

The song’s success was a turning point for the Rolling Stones, as it brought them to the attention of a broader audience and paved the way for their subsequent hits.

American Success: “Not Fade Away” and the US Charts

In June 1964, “Not Fade Away” became the Rolling Stones’ first single to chart in the US, reaching number 48 on the Billboard Hot 100. This was a significant milestone for the band, as it marked their entry into the lucrative American market.

The song’s success in the US can be attributed to the growing popularity of British Invasion bands, such as the Beatles and the Dave Clark Five, who were dominating the charts at the time. The Rolling Stones’ unique blend of blues, rock ‘n’ roll, and R&B helped set them apart from their British contemporaries and appealed to American audiences.

The Legacy of “Not Fade Away”

In the decades since its release, “Not Fade Away” has become a beloved classic in the Rolling Stones’ discography. The song has been covered by numerous artists, including Bob Dylan, who recorded a version for his 1992 album “Good as I Been to You.”

“Not Fade Away” remains an integral part of the Rolling Stones’ live shows, with the band frequently including it in their setlists and featuring it in various live albums and DVDs.

Influence on Subsequent Success

The success of “Not Fade Away” had a profound impact on the Rolling Stones’ subsequent success. The song’s chart performance helped secure them a record deal with Decca Records, which led to the release of their self-titled debut album in 1964.

The album was a moderate success, but it laid the groundwork for their future hits, including “It’s All Over Now,” “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction,” and “Get Off of My Cloud.” These songs cemented the Rolling Stones’ status as one of the leading rock bands of the 1960s and paved the way for their later success.

Conclusion

The Rolling Stones’ first hit, “Not Fade Away,” played a pivotal role in establishing the band as a major force in the music industry. This Buddy Holly cover not only showcased the band’s unique sound but also paved the way for their subsequent success, including their first US chart appearance and their debut album.

The Rolling Stones’ legacy continues to inspire new generations of music fans, and their first hit remains an integral part of their enduring appeal.

What was the Rolling Stones’ first hit single?

The Rolling Stones’ first hit single was “Come On,” released in June 1963. This song marked the beginning of their successful music career, which would span over five decades. “Come On” was a cover of a Chuck Berry song, and it reached number 21 on the UK Singles Chart.

The song’s success can be attributed to the band’s unique blend of blues, rock, and roll, and rhythm. Keith Richards’ distinctive guitar riffs, Mick Jagger’s charismatic vocals, and the band’s energetic performance style all contributed to the song’s popularity. The Rolling Stones’ first hit single set the stage for their future success, and it remains a beloved track in their extensive discography.

How did the Rolling Stones get their start in music?

The Rolling Stones formed in 1962, when childhood friends Mick Jagger and Keith Richards reunited after discovering their shared passion for music. They recruited Brian Jones, Bill Wyman, and Charlie Watts to complete the band’s original lineup. The group began performing at local clubs and bars in London, playing a mix of blues, rock, and roll, and rhythm covers.

The Rolling Stones’ early gigs helped them develop their stage presence and hone their craft. They also drew attention from local music enthusiasts, including Andrew Loog Oldham, who would become their manager and producer. Oldham played a crucial role in shaping the band’s image and securing their first recording contract, which led to the release of “Come On” and the launch of their career.

What was the Rolling Stones’ early sound like?

The Rolling Stones’ early sound was deeply rooted in American blues and rock, and roll. They drew inspiration from artists like Chuck Berry, Bo Diddley, and Muddy Waters, and their music reflected this influence. The band’s blues-infused sound was characterized by Richards’ innovative guitar playing, Jagger’s emotive vocals, and the rhythm section’s driving beat.

In their early days, the Rolling Stones focused on covers, playing a mix of blues and rock, and roll classics. However, they soon began to incorporate original compositions into their setlists. The band’s early sound was raw and energetic, with a focus on musicianship and performance. As they developed, they would expand their musical horizons, incorporating new styles and influences into their work.

How did the Rolling Stones’ early success impact the UK music scene?

The Rolling Stones’ early success had a significant impact on the UK music scene. They were one of the key bands in the British Invasion, a wave of UK-based rock and pop acts that swept the US charts in the early 1960s. The Rolling Stones’ blend of blues, rock, and roll, and rhythm helped shape the sound of the British Invasion, influencing other notable bands like The Beatles and The Kinks.

The Rolling Stones’ success also paved the way for other UK-based rock and roll acts. They demonstrated that British bands could achieve international success, and their music resonated with audiences on both sides of the Atlantic. The Rolling Stones’ early success helped establish the UK as a hub for rock and roll innovation, and their influence can still be felt in contemporary music today.

What was the significance of “Come On” in the Rolling Stones’ career?

“Come On” was a pivotal release in the Rolling Stones’ career, as it marked their first taste of success. The song’s chart performance introduced the band to a wider audience, and it helped establish them as a force to be reckoned with in the UK music scene.

The success of “Come On” gave the Rolling Stones the momentum they needed to build a loyal fan base and secure more gigs. It also led to increased media exposure, with the band receiving more attention from music journalists and critics. “Come On” remains an important part of the Rolling Stones’ discography, serving as a testament to their early potential and the starting point for their remarkable career.

How did the Rolling Stones’ early success impact their relationships with each other?

The Rolling Stones’ early success had a profound impact on their relationships with each other. As the band’s profile grew, so did the demands on their time and energy. The constant touring, recording, and promotional activities put a strain on their personal relationships, leading to tensions and conflicts.

Despite these challenges, the Rolling Stones’ early success also deepened their bonds as friends and musicians. They learned to rely on each other, both on and off stage, and developed a strong sense of camaraderie. The shared experience of success and the thrill of performing together helped forge a strong foundation for their relationships, which would endure through the ups and downs of their long career.

What does the Rolling Stones’ early success reveal about their legacy?

The Rolling Stones’ early success reveals the durability and adaptability of their legacy. From their early days as a blues-infused rock and roll band to their current status as rock legends, the Rolling Stones have consistently pushed the boundaries of their music and style.

The Rolling Stones’ early success demonstrates their ability to tap into the cultural zeitgeist, capturing the spirit of their time and reflecting the mood of their audience. Their legacy is a testament to the power of rock and roll to inspire, influence, and endure, and their early success paved the way for the many iconic albums, songs, and performances that would follow.