Mick Taylor: The Rolling Stones Years

Mick Taylor: The Rolling Stones Years

Mick Taylor's career took a significant turn when he joined The Rolling Stones, one of the most iconic rock bands in history. Prior to this, he was part of John Mayall & the Bluesbreakers, a successful blues rock group. In 1969, The Rolling Stones needed a new guitarist due to Brian Jones' struggles with drug addiction. Mick Jagger turned to John Mayall for a recommendation, and Taylor, then only 20 years old, impressed Jagger and Keith Richards during his audition with the song "Live With Me."

Taylor's addition to the band marked a new chapter for The Rolling Stones, as they introduced him at a press conference in Hyde Park, London, in June 1969. The band paid tribute to Jones, who had passed away, by staging a free concert attended by thousands. Taylor's debut performance with The Rolling Stones was a memorable moment in rock history.

Over the next five years, Taylor made significant contributions to The Rolling Stones' music through his performances and recordings. However, personal issues and a growing drug addiction led him to leave the band in 1974. Despite his departure, Taylor expressed gratitude for his time with The Rolling Stones and acknowledged the challenges he faced during that period.