From The Library: The Rolling Stones - 365 Days by Simon Wells

Y'all know that mama loves her some Rolling Stones. So it stands to reason that there are one or two (or more) books on those same Rolling Stones around the old homestead. Of all the Stones books I have, this one is a particular favorite.

From the very opening (and ending) of this book, a two-page homage to those luscious Jagger lips, Simon Wells gives the people what they want - 365 fabulous fabulous and foxy photos of the Stones from the archives of Getty Images. The photos lead chronologically from the beginning (photo #1 being of Mick Jagger's father, Basil), through to the 2000s, and many are accompanied by choice quotes from the members of the band and important related figures (such as former manager/svengali Andrew Loog Oldham and music rags like NME).

As you gaze upon classic image after classic image, you can softly chuckle to yourself when reading Mick's humble words, "I'm just an ordinary English bloke, same as everyone else," or concur completely with Oldham's proclamation that, "The Rolling Stones are more than just a group - they're a way of life." You'll just plain enjoy this splendid collection of Stones shots and all those nuggest of Stonesian trivia. So get off of my cloud and get your own dang copy of The Rolling Stones - 365 Days.

mp3: Tumbling Dice (The Rolling Stones from Exile On Main Street) (Nice choice, Those Who Dig!)

Happy Birthday, Mick

Y’all know this already, but perhaps it bears repeating that I love The Rolling Stones. Love above just about all else. To me, it doesn’t get much better than Mick & Keith, and that blanket statement applies to many things (voracious appetites for the rock lifestyle, affinity for skinny pants, unbeatable songcraft, etc.). And as such, I certainly couldn’t let the birthday of the leader of my beloved band of legends pass by unheralded.

Yes, little lads and ladettes, today is the birthday of Mister Mick Jagger, otherwise known as The Voice (or The Lips). When it comes to frontmen, there is none better than this man. Nor, possibly, will there be better. Those pouty lips, those undulating hips…his primal persona behind the mic (and probably behind closed doors, too) means that the man is and forever shall be walking sex. And let’s face it. In the realms of rock, that’s exactly how it should be.

A very hearty, lusty, and enthusiastic birthday to Mick.

mp3: Dead Flowers (Townes Van Zandt from the Big Lebowski Soundtrack)

mp3: I'm A King Bee (The Rolling Stones from England's Newest Hitmakers)