STILL ROCKIN’ AND ROLLIN’

They may all be heading into their eighth decade, but THE ROLLING STONES are proof that age really is just a number. The iconic English rock band’s latest album, Hackney Diamonds – their first in 18 years – is a chart-topper.

Their first release since 2005’s A Bigger Bang, it went straight to No 1 in their native UK – putting them on par with Robbie Williams with 14 No 1 albums, a number only surpassed by The Beatles with 16. According to the band’s guitarist, KEITH RICHARDS (79), the title refers to “broken glass left over in the morning after a good Saturday night that went bad”.

Hackney Diamonds includes many of their styles in their six-decade musical journey from hard rock to disco to country honk.

It also includes two tracks with their late drummer, Charlie Watts, recorded before his death in 2021.

The rest features new drummer Steve Jordan, who toured previously with the band. “We weren’t trying to recreate some retro record or retro sound or even retro playing,” says lead singer MICK JAGGER (80). The record’s guest list includes Paul McCartney, Stevie Wonder, Elton John, Lady Gaga and even self-exiled Stones bassist Bill Wyman, who returned for one of Charlie’s final recordings.

Mick is not too concerned about ageing either.

“I do think about it. But I write all the time. You’ve just got to keep writing, and now everyone [in the band] can see they can record quite easily.”

– COMPILED BY NICI DE WET

‘LISTEN TO MICK’S VOCALS, MAN – THERE’S NO DIFFERENCE BETWEEN 18 AND 80’

– LATE ROLLING STONES GUITARIST CHARLIE WATTS