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Because of Stu

A New Book salutes Ian Stewart, the Rolling Stone’ unsung Titan

Ian Harrison

February 2005

For those who listen to rock n’ roll, they know the Rolling Stones are Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Charlie Watts, Ronnie Wood, Bill Wyman, and Chuck Leavell. However, for those who are true rock n’ roll aficionados, when asked about the Stones, they say Ian Stewart’s name before Jagger or Richards or Watts or Wood. So who is Ian Stewart and why do his fellow band members call him the most important of all the Rolling Stones? It’s all explained in “Stu,” a limited edition, 432-page retrospective that is sure to become a collector’s item.

What makes this tome a page-turner is that 80 different authors contributed the 85,000 words that populate “Stu.” There are pieces penned by Eric Clapton, and Steve Beck, and the list goes on. The 950-copy book also comes with a numbered edition screen print of Ian Stewart specifically drawn for this tribute by Wood, who is a gifted artist in addition to being a key member of the Rolling Stones. Wood has had his work exhibited around the world, and he is one of the top-selling artists in both the United States and United Kingdom. All six surviving members of the Rolling Stones recall Ian Stewart at length in extensive and revealing interviews, as well as giving new insights into the early history of the band.

Ian Stewart, who died in 1985 of a stroke at 47, was also a gifted amateur photographer who obsessively photographed the band during his nearly 30 years with the Stones. As a result, his never-beforepublished photographs are one of the major highlights of the book. In addition, the world’s most celebrated rock n’ roll photographers have contributed photographs and memorabilia.

Stones fans know that Ian Stewart helped found the band, but when they got their first record contract, management felt that the group should have only five members. Ian stopped being an “excellent boogiewoogie pianist” and shifted to road manager and back-up musician. Stewart’s musical prowess can be heard on the Rolling Stones songs, “Little By Little”, “Let It Bleed”, and “Emotional Rescue”. He remained a powerful influence on the Stones, who dedicated their album “Dirty Work” to him.

This one-of-a-kind cocktail table book is available only through the Out-Take web site.