The Rolling Stones' 1972 masterpiece,"Exile On Main Street," epitomizes the rebellious spirit of the early 1970s. Recorded in diverse locations, the double LP, produced by Jimmy Miller, features the creative input of sound engineers like Andy Johns and a visually compelling design by John Van Hamersveld and Norman Seef. Renowned photographer Robert Frank's candid shots provide a visual narrative, ensuring the album's enduring status as a timeless rock classic.
In the vibrant musical landscape of the early 1970s, The Rolling Stones etched their mark with the release of "Exile On Main Street." This iconic double LP album, boasting custom-designed inner sleeves, was unleashed upon the world in 1972, capturing the essence of an era marked by cultural shifts, artistic experimentation, and a rebellious spirit.
Time Period's Context:
The early 1970s were a tumultuous time, characterized by a blend of social upheaval, political activism, and a fervent desire for artistic expression. As the world grappled with changes, music became a powerful medium for reflecting the collective consciousness. Against this backdrop, The Rolling Stones embarked on the creation of "Exile On Main Street," drawing inspiration from the eclectic cultural tapestry of the time.
Production Journey:
The production of "Exile On Main Street" was helmed by the accomplished Jimmy Miller, known for his work with the Stones on previous albums. The sound and recording engineers, including Andy Johns, Glyn Johns, Jeremy Gee, and Joe Zaganno, played pivotal roles in shaping the album's sonic landscape. The diversity of recording locations—ranging from Olympia Studios in London to the picturesque villa Nellcôte in France—contributed to the album's dynamic and eclectic sound.
Album Cover Design & Artwork:
The visual identity of "Exile On Main Street" was curated by the talented duo of John Van Hamersveld and Norman Seef. The album cover design became an integral part of the Stones' artistic expression. Van Hamersveld and Seef's collaboration resulted in an iconic cover that mirrored the album's raw and unfiltered musical content, capturing the essence of the rebellious spirit of the early '70s.
Photography:
Renowned photographer Robert Frank lent his artistic vision to "Exile On Main Street." His candid and evocative photography provided a visual narrative that complemented the album's gritty, authentic sound. Frank's work showcased the Stones in various settings, from recording sessions to off-stage moments, offering fans a glimpse into the band's creative process.
Rock, Blues-Rock
Rolling Stones Records – COC 69 100
Record Format: Double 12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 460 gram
1972 Netherlands
Jimmy Miller - Producer
Andy Johns - Sound Engineer
Glyn Johns - Sound Engineer
Jeremy Gee - Sound Engineer
Joe Zaganno - Sound Engineer
This album was recorded at: Olympia Studios, London; villa Nellcôte, France; Stargroves Manor, England; Sunset Sound Recorders, Los Angeles
John Van Hamersveld - Album Cover Design
Norman Seef - Album Cover Design
Robert Frank - Photographer
Nicky Hopkins - Piano (full-name: Nicholas Christian Hopkins a well-known British pianist having worked with "The Rolling Stones" , "The Kinks", "The Who", "Jeff Beck Group", "Quicksilver Messenger Service", "Screaming Lord Sutch's Savages", "Cyril Davies (R&B) All-Stars", "The Beatles" , "Jefferson Airplane" and others)
Ian Stewart - Piano (full-name: Ian Andrew Robert Stewart, co-founder of the Rolling Stones and active band-member until 1963. Later he became their road-manager and guest musician on piano, organ, marimba and percussion and has been performed with many other bands including George Thorogood, Led Zeppelin and others)
Note: The images on this page are photos of the actual album. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone )
Over the decennia the line-up of "The Rolling Stones" has been changed several times read the mini-biographies of the best known stones