By 1965, the Rolling Stones had become one of the largest pop phenomena globally, playing a significant role in the emergence of rock music. A succession of massive hits—‘The Last Time’, ‘Satisfaction’, ‘Get Off My Cloud’—cemented their reputation as a flamboyant, guitar-driven band of outsiders. However, the following year, Brian Jones expanded their musical horizon by stepping away from the guitar.
The band's 1966 album ‘Aftermath’ was notable as their first to feature songs solely written by the group, with all compositions credited to the creative duo of Mick Jagger and Keith Richards. However, the full narrative involves Brian Jones, who significantly influenced the identity of ‘Aftermath.’
Keith Richards spoke about the intricate recording sessions in an interview with Beat Instrumental, suggesting they were different from past experiences: “Our earlier sessions were always rushed. This time we had the chance to take it slower and relax.”
A versatile musician, Brian Jones flourished during the sessions at RCA Studios in the U.S. He had essentially been the one to establish the group, and his emerging relationship with Anita Pallenberg fueled his creativity, giving him a newfound artistic confidence.
Consequently, ‘Aftermath’ showcases a variety of instruments played by Brian Jones, with lead melodies created using sitar, dulcimer, and notably, marimba.
‘Under My Thumb’ is fundamentally a blues-influenced three-chord track, featuring particularly contentious lyrics from Mick Jagger, which drew criticism from the feminist movement.
Nevertheless, it became a worldwide success, and according to Bill Wyman, the track's triumph stemmed largely from Brian Jones' unconventional creativity.
When he discovered a leftover Mexican marimba in the studio, he crafted a simple yet highly effective melody, fundamentally altering ‘Under My Thumb’ in the process. Bill Wyman later remarked, “Without the marimba part, it’s not really a song, is it?”
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Brian Jones’ choice to move away from playing guitar may have allowed The Rolling Stones to diversify their sound, but it also compelled Keith Richards to layer and overdub his guitar contributions—something he began to resent as Jones' struggles with addiction intensified. Additionally, Anita Pallenberg emerged as a divisive influence within the band, eventually leaving Brian Jones for Keith Richards.
This moment of brilliance could be viewed as a turning point, as ‘Under My Thumb’ also reflects the early signs of tension that would ultimately lead to Brian Jones' departure from the band he helped create.
By 1965, the Rolling Stones had become one of the most significant pop phenomena in the world, playing a crucial role in the creation of rock music along the way. A series of massive
