Dartford: The Birthplace of The Rolling Stones
In 2015, Dartford Borough Council honored a significant moment in Rolling Stones history by commemorating the meeting of Mick Jagger and Keith Richards at Dartford railway station. The blue plaque mistakenly claimed that Jagger and Richards went on to form The Rolling Stones, which sparked controversy among fans. In reality, Brian Jones founded the band and chose the name after a Muddy Waters song. Despite the error, the meeting between Jagger and Richards on October 17th, 1961, marked the beginning of their musical partnership.
Dartford, located in Southeast England near the Greater London border, has tried to attract rock fans to the town. While it may not have the same allure as Liverpool with its Beatles history, Dartford's connection to The Rolling Stones is significant. The town's suburban character and proximity to the Dartford Crossing bridge and Bluewater Shopping Centre make it less of a tourist destination. However, visitors can explore High Street to see Amy Goodman's The Glimmer Twins statues and other landmarks related to Jagger and Richards' childhood.
For those interested in exploring Jagger and Richards' roots, Dartford offers a glimpse into their early lives. Both musicians were born at Livingston Hospital and lived close to each other in Dartford. Jagger attended Dartford Grammar School, now home to The Mick Jagger Centre, while Richards went to Dartford Technical High School for Boys. The town has commemorated their connection with street names like Satisfaction Street and Ruby Tuesday Drive.
Despite their global fame, Jagger and Richards have not forgotten their humble beginnings in Dartford. Richards has been seen wearing a "Straight Outta Dartford" t-shirt during performances, showcasing his pride in the town. Dartford may not have the same musical legacy as Liverpool, but its role in The Rolling Stones' history is celebrated through various tributes and commemorations.