"Beggars Banquet" is the seventh studio album by the English rock band The Rolling Stones. It was released in December 1968 by Decca Records in the United Kingdom and London Records in the United States. It marked a return to the band's R&B roots, generally viewed as more primal than the conspicuous psychedelia of Their Satanic Majesties Request.
In the turbulent landscape of late 1960s rock music, The Rolling Stones embarked on a journey to rediscover their roots, leading to the creation of the iconic album "Beggars Banquet." Released in December 1968 by Decca Records in the United Kingdom and London Records in the United States, this LP marked a significant departure from the psychedelic experimentation of their previous work, bringing the band back to its rhythm and blues origins.
Time Period's Context:
1968 was a pivotal year in global history, characterized by social and political upheavals. The Vietnam War raged on, protests against the war escalated, and the civil rights movement continued to challenge systemic inequalities. This backdrop of unrest and change undoubtedly influenced the artistic landscape, including the music industry. Against this tumultuous background, The Rolling Stones chose to strip down their sound, embracing a more straightforward and authentic approach.
The counter-cultural movement and a desire for authenticity drove artists to explore their musical heritage. The Stones, inspired by the blues and R&B that initially shaped their identity, decided to create an album that paid homage to these roots. "Beggars Banquet" became a statement of rebellion against the prevailing trends, capturing the essence of the times while reflecting a timeless quality.
Production and Artistic Collaboration:
One of the key elements contributing to the success of "Beggars Banquet" was the choice of Jimmy Miller as the producer. Miller played a crucial role in shaping the album's sound, emphasizing the raw and unpolished qualities that defined the band's early work. His production style complemented the Stones' return to a more traditional sound, blending authenticity with modern production techniques.
The lineup for the album showcased the diverse talents within the band. Mick Jagger's distinctive vocals, Keith Richards' mastery of both acoustic and electric guitars, and Brian Jones' eclectic instrumental contributions created a rich sonic tapestry. The inclusion of additional musicians such as Nicky Hopkins on piano, Rocky Dijon on congas, and a gospel choir added layers of depth and complexity to the album.
Collaborations with Marianne Faithfull and Anita Pallenberg on backing vocals, as well as the incorporation of instruments like the sitar and mellotron, highlighted the band's willingness to experiment within the framework of their R&B revival. This fusion of traditional and contemporary elements showcased a band unafraid to evolve while staying true to their roots.
Music Genre: British Progressive Rock, Blues |
Album Production Information: Produced by Jimmy Miller |
Record Label Information: Decca SKL 4955 FFSSStamper codes: xzal 8476-4k / xzal 8476-1k |
Packaging: Gatefold (FOC) cover design. |
Media Format: 12" Vinyl LP Gramophone RecordAlbum weight: 240 gram |
Year & Country: 1968 Made in England |
Band Members and Musicians on: Rolling Stones Beggars Banquet |
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Track Listing of: Rolling Stones Beggars Banquet |
The Song/tracks on "Rolling Stones Beggars Banquet" are
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Blue background with silver lettering DECCA FFSS SKL 4955 Record Label Details: BIEM,NCB, GEMA Mirage Music
Over the decennia the line-up of "The Rolling Stones" has been changed several times read the mini-biographies of the best known stones