In a recent post on X, Steven Van Zandt discussed the unsung heroes behind the success of the Rolling Stones, beyond Mick Jagger and Keith Richards.
A user on the platform shared a picture of Charlie Watts and Bill Wyman and wrote:
“The original rhythm section of the Rolling Stones, Charlie Watts and Bill Wyman.”
The E Street Band member reposted this tweet and said, addressing the importance of Watts and Wyman to the band:
“These guys (and the songwriting on the first 12 albums) are why they’re still selling out stadiums 60 years later.”
Fan Reactions And Song Examples
In the comment section, the fans seemed to agree with Van Zandt. They gave some songs from the Stones catalog as examples, as one of them wrote:
“‘Live By The Sword’ on the new album is a reminder of how underappreciated (casually) Wyman’s bass was to Stones’ signature wobble. [I] could listen to that rhythm section while sitting on hot coals and still enjoy it.”
Another one said, referring to another track from the Stones:
“The bass and drums on ‘Jumpin’ Jack Flash’ get me every time.”
The following comment specifically talked about Wyman, noting:
“No offense to Darryl Jones, who is a fantastic player, but it just doesn’t sound like the Stones without Wyman. Such a unique player.”
A Look At Wyman’s Return For ‘Hackney Diamonds’
Little Steven had previously opened up about Wyman’s importance to the sound of the band again on X while discussing his brief return to the Stones for ‘Hackney Diamonds.’ The guitarist wrote the following upon seeing the news of Wyman:
“Bill Wyman is the most underrated bass player in rock history and was a huge, essential part of the totally unique sound of the early Rolling Stones.”
While Watts contributed to every Rolling Stones album until his death in 2021, Wyman performed on 19 records until his departure in 1993.
You can see all the tweets below.
These guys (and the songwriting on the first 12 albums) are why they’re still selling out stadiums 60 years later. https://t.co/rIk6Uf9LJn
— 🕉🇺🇦🟦Stevie Van Zandt☮️💙 (@StevieVanZandt) December 20, 2023
“Live By The Sword” on the new album is a reminder how under appreciated (casually) Wyman’s bass was to Stones’ signature wobble. Could listen to that rhythm section while sitting on hot coals and still enjoy it.
— Rob Rossi (@Real_RobRossi) December 20, 2023
