The Rolling Stones “Hackney Diamonds” Marks End to 18-Year Drought

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From left: The Rolling Stones' Mick Jagger, Ronnie Wood, Keith Richards, and Charlie Watts bow post-show London 2018. | Raph_PH photo CC-BY-SA-2.0

The world’s most enduring rock ‘n’ roll band, The Rolling Stones, have once again set the music world abuzz. After a hiatus of 18 years from original studio recordings, the iconic band has announced their upcoming album, “Hackney Diamonds.” The announcement follows a tantalizing teaser campaign that saw the Stones’ unmistakable tongue logo projected onto iconic structures in cities like New York, Los Angeles, London, and Paris.

“Hackney Diamonds” is not just a nod to the London borough but represents a global moment the band wishes to share with fans worldwide via YouTube. The album will be their first studio release since 2005’s “A Bigger Bang.” While they did release “Blue & Lonesome” in 2016, it was a blues-based album filled with covers of legendary artists like Howlin’ Wolf and Little Walter.

Details about the album remain tantalizingly scarce. However, a significant revelation is that at least one track will feature the two surviving members of The Beatles: Sir Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr. This collaboration is bound to send ripples of excitement through the legions of fans of both legendary bands.

The Stones’ journey with “Hackney Diamonds” is also poignant as it marks their first release since the passing of their founding member and drummer, Charlie Watts, in 2021. Watts, whose drumming was integral to the band’s sound, had been with them since their inception in 1962. Following his passing, the band toured with drummer Steve Jordan.

The Stones have planned an event in Hackney, London, on September 6th, where Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, and Ron Wood will be interviewed by “Tonight Show” host Jimmy Fallon about the new record. This event promises to shed more light on the album and will be streamed globally on YouTube.

↓ Watch it live right here ↓

In a statement, the band expressed, “Hackney may be at the heart of Hackney Diamonds, but this is a truly global moment we want to share with fans around the world via YouTube”.

The Rolling Stones’ legacy is unparalleled. From their inception in the early ’60s to their tours that still draw massive crowds, their ability to evolve and remain relevant is a testament to their talent and passion. With “Hackney Diamonds,” they are set to add another glittering chapter to their storied career.