Let's dive into a fascinating story about the legendary Ronnie Wood and his pivotal role in music history. This narrative takes us back to the early '70s, when Wood's London home became a musical hub, a creative melting pot that would shape the future of rock 'n' roll.
The Musical Hub
Imagine a four-storey Georgian mansion overlooking the Thames, a place where musical legends gathered. Ronnie Wood, then a member of the Faces, transformed his residence, The Wick, into a vibrant hub of musical activity. From Gregg Allman to Paul McCartney, the who's who of the music industry graced his stairs.
Among the notable visitors were Wood's Faces bandmate, Rod Stewart, and two exceptional bassists, Ric Grech and Willie Weeks, who had worked with an array of icons, including George Harrison and David Bowie. The Wick buzzed with creativity and collaboration.
Impromptu Guitar Lessons
One anecdote that stands out is Wood's recollection of teaching legendary drummers Keith Moon and Ringo Starr the chord of E. Imagine the dynamic and the laughter that must have filled the room! It's a testament to the informal, yet impactful, nature of these musical gatherings.
The Solo Album and Beyond
In 1974, Wood recorded his debut solo album, ‘I’ve Got My Own Album To Do’, at The Wick. It was a star-studded affair, featuring George Harrison, Keith Richards, Mick Jagger, and David Bowie, among others. This album session also led to Wood's involvement in creating the Rolling Stones' iconic song, ‘It’s Only Rock ‘n Roll (But I Like It)’.
Wood and Jagger worked on ‘I Can Feel The Fire’, and then Jagger asked Wood to help with ‘It’s Only Rock ‘n Roll’. The result was a basic track featuring Wood, Jagger, Bowie, and Willie Weeks, with Kenney Jones on drums. This track formed the foundation for the final version, released on the Stones' 12th studio album.
Joining the Stones
In 1974, the Stones' lead guitarist, Mick Taylor, left the band, and Wood, already familiar with the group, was the top choice for the role. He seamlessly joined the Stones in 1975, first as a touring member, and then officially in 1976. His journey, which began at The Wick, continues to this day.
This story highlights the organic nature of musical collaboration and the unexpected paths that can lead to iconic moments in music history. It's a reminder of the power of creativity and the impact of informal, yet passionate, musical gatherings.
