Rock 'n' Roll Revolution: The Rolling Stones' Record Label Journey and the New York Dolls' Influence
The Rolling Stones took a bold step in 1970 by establishing their own record label, Rolling Stones Records, to gain more control over their music and artistic decisions. The move was prompted by years of restrictions imposed by Decca Records, which hindered the band's creative freedom. The delay in releasing their album "Beggars Banquet" due to disagreements over the album cover was the final straw that led to the formation of their label.
Creating a record label presented its own set of challenges, as seen through the experiences of The Rolling Stones' former manager, Andrew Loog Oldham, with Immediate Records. Maintaining a label with only one band on the roster, especially one as unpredictable as The Stones, proved to be a daunting task. Despite their initial struggles, The Rolling Stones managed to sign Cuban-American band Kracker to their label, but they also considered signing the New York Dolls, a pioneering group in the punk rock movement.
The New York Dolls, with their unique blend of glam, hard rock, and punk influences, caught the attention of Mick Jagger and Rolling Stones Records. However, after Jagger personally assessed the band, he decided not to sign them, possibly dismissing them as not fitting their vision. Despite facing criticism from mainstream music critics, the New York Dolls played a crucial role in shaping the future of punk and post-punk music, influencing bands like the Ramones and Morrissey.
While the New York Dolls missed the opportunity to join Rolling Stones Records, they found success with Mercury Records. The Rolling Stones' reluctance to embrace the emerging punk rock scene, coupled with Jagger's decision not to sign the Dolls, reflected a shift in the music industry. Despite this, the New York Dolls' impact on the punk movement remains undeniable, paving the way for a new wave of musical expression.