Stu: The Longtime Rolling Stones Road Manager, Piano Player, and More
The name may not be as widely recognized as that of the lead singer or the iconic guitarist, but Stu, a.k.a. Ian Stewart, played a significant role in the history of one of the most influential rock bands in the world – The Rolling Stones. From his humble beginnings to his later years as a road manager and occasional keyboard player, Stu's contributions to the band are noteworthy.
Stu: A Founding Member of The Rolling Stones
Before The Rolling Stones became a household name, they were just a group of musicians trying to form a rhythm and blues band. In 1962, Brian Jones placed an ad seeking musicians, and Stu, a local pianist and member of The Raging Storm, was the first to respond. This ad would change the course of music history, leading to the formation of one of the greatest rock bands of all time, with Stu becoming an integral part of the original lineup.
Stu's skill as a boogie woogie barrelhouse piano player made him a valuable asset to the band. In the early days, along with Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Dick Taylor, and Mick Avory, Stu formed the core of the original Stones lineup. Their first gig was held at the Marquee Club in July 1962. However, not long after, Stu was demoted from the group, primarily due to his unconventional style that didn't align with Andrew Loog Oldham's vision for the band's image.
Stu's Later Roles in the Rolling Stones
Despite being demoted from the band, Stu didn't leave the Rolling Stones completely. Instead, he continued to support the group as a tour manager and a part-time keyboard player. This role allowed him to contribute to the band in a different capacity while maintaining his relationship with the band members.
One of the most significant moments in Stu's involvement with The Rolling Stones was during the recording of The Physical Graffiti. This iconic album, recorded using the band's mobile recording unit, featured a spontaneous jam session that occurred at a location called Headly Grange. Interestingly, the session started with Stu playing an old, out-of-tune piano, leading to the creation of an unforgettable track.
Legacy and Death
Ian Stewart lived a life that was marked by a deep love for music and a commitment to his fellow musicians. He was devastated by the death of Brian Jones in 1969 and continued to support Keith Richards through numerous legal and personal challenges in the 1980s. Tragically, Stu's own life came to an untimely end in 1985, just a few years before The Rolling Stones released Tattoo You and began a tour that would make them the highest-grossing band in the world.
Stu's legacy lives on not just within the walls of recording studios and concert venues but through the music he played and the support he provided. His story is a testament to the value of contributions that may not always be in the spotlight, but play a crucial role in shaping the essence of a legendary band.