The invitation-only show was the band’s first peformance on their new album cycle
Well, well, well, hold onto your sequined jackets, folks, because the legendary rock icons, The Rolling Stones (you may have heard of them), decided to paint the town red last night in the city that never sleeps, New York City! Why, you ask? To kick off the release of their sizzling hot new album, “Hackney Diamonds.” And no, they didn’t just casually stroll into some random pub – it was a hush-hush, invitation-only soiree at the swanky Racket NYC (formerly known as the Highline Ballroom).
Now, I know you’re itching to know who made the exclusive guest list! Brace yourselves because it was a star-studded affair. We’re talking about none other than GRAMMY® Award-winning legends Elvis Costello and Diana Krall, the Oscar-winning enchantress Rachel Weisz (you might remember her from “The Constant Gardener” or “The Mummy”), and the dashing star of the 007 franchise, Mr. Daniel Craig. Phew, that’s one classy gathering. I must have missed the invite, weird.
The Stones hit the stage with a killer seven-song setlist, starting with the absolute banger, “Shattered” from their 1978 gem “Some Girls.” Then, they unleashed the beast with their new album’s lead single, “Angry.” But that’s not all, folks! They dished out some more fresh tracks, like “Whole Wide World” and “Bite My Head Off.” And, of course, they couldn’t resist treating their fans to some vintage hits – “Tumbling Dice” and “Jumpin’ Jack Flash.” Iconic, right?
Don’t just take our word for it, though. You can check out some fan-filmed snippets of “Angry” and “Tumbling Dice” below. It’s like you were there with them, almost!
Hold onto your tambourines because there was an encore! The Stones whipped out a brand-spankin’-new song, “Sweet Sounds of Heaven,” straight from “Hackney Diamonds.” But the jaw-dropper? None other than GRAMMY® Award-winner Lady Gaga herself decided to join the Stones on stage for this epic performance. Can you believe it? See for yourself in the fan-filmed footage below.
Fast forward to October 18, and the Stones decided to pop up all over the globe with versions of their London retail shop, RS No. 9. They’ve got one in New York and Los Angeles now, and Tokyo’s next on the list for October 20.
Back in 2020, on September 9, the Stones unveiled their world-first flagship store on Carnaby Street, London. It’s not just a store; it’s a wild, immersive experience for fans of all ages. Exclusive collaborations, fashion, merchandise, and, of course, the Stones’ latest musical goodies are all up for grabs.
But wait, there’s more. The Stones teamed up with fashion maestro Paul Smith to craft a unique collection inspired by their new album. Think three rockin’ t-shirts and a limited edition “Hackney Diamonds” vinyl LP with a cover that’s so cool, it’s like art on steroids – thanks to Paul himself.
Now, “Hackney Diamonds” marks a significant milestone – it’s their 23rd studio album, and it’s the first one without their founding drummer, the late and great Charlie Watts. During a live-stream event hosted by Jimmy Fallon, the Stones let us in on a little secret – two tracks on the album, “Mess It Up” and “Live by the Sword,” were actually recorded back in 2019, with Charlie Watts pounding the drums.
Guitar legend Keith Richards couldn’t help but drop some truth bombs: “Ever since Charlie’s gone, it’s different. He’s ‘Number Four.’” Talk about heartfelt!
Now, you’re probably wondering how to get your hands on this musical masterpiece. Fear not, because “Hackney Diamonds” is available in various formats, from standard black vinyl to limited edition blue vinyl with an alternate cover, and so much more. Plus, if you’re a fan of “Angry” and “Sweet Sounds of Heaven,” there are physical releases for those too, like CDs and vinyl. Get ready to rock and roll, folks!
Ready to dive into this rock ‘n’ roll treasure trove? You can order the physical versions and save your spot for streaming right HERE.
So what are you waiting for? The Stones are calling, and you better answer!