In the world of rock 'n' roll, where legends are made and stories are born, there's a tale that unfolds within the walls of Ronnie Wood's London home, a tale that intertwines with the very fabric of music history. Let's dive into this narrative, a story that showcases the magic of collaboration and the serendipity of artistic creation.
The Musical Hub
Imagine a house, a four-story Georgian mansion overlooking the majestic River Thames in Richmond. This was Ronnie Wood's abode, a place he affectionately called 'The Wick.' In the early '70s, The Wick wasn't just a residence; it was a vibrant hub of musical activity. Musicians, both famous and up-and-coming, flocked to its doors, creating an atmosphere buzzing with creativity.
"My house, The Wick, was the epicenter of musical energy. You had everyone from Gregg Allman to Paul McCartney passing through. It was a who's who of the music world," Wood reminisces.
Among the regular visitors were Wood's Faces bandmate, Rod Stewart, and session drummer Andy Newmark, who had previously played with Sly and the Family Stone. But the bassists who frequented The Wick were especially notable: Ric Grech, known for his work with Blind Faith and Traffic, and Willie Weeks, who had collaborated with an impressive array of artists, including George Harrison, Stevie Wonder, and David Bowie.
Impromptu Guitar Lessons
One of the most fascinating anecdotes from Wood's time at The Wick involves two legendary drummers, Keith Moon and Ringo Starr. As Wood tells it, these two icons were getting restless, wanting more musical companionship. So, in a moment of spontaneity, Wood found himself teaching these masters of the drums the chord of E. It's a testament to the collaborative spirit and the unexpected directions music can take.
"It was a unique moment, teaching Ringo and Keith. Who would've thought I'd be instructing these icons? It just goes to show the magic that can happen when musicians gather," Wood reflects.
The Solo Album and a Stones Connection
In 1974, while still with the Faces, Wood recorded his debut solo album, 'I've Got My Own Album To Do,' at The Wick. It was a star-studded affair, featuring guests like George Harrison, Keith Richards, Mick Jagger, and David Bowie. Harrison even sang and played slide guitar on a track he co-wrote with Wood, 'Far East Man.'
But it was the opening track, 'I Can Feel The Fire,' that truly showcases the magic of The Wick. Wood collaborated with Willie Weeks, Andy Newmark, Jagger, Richards, and Bowie. And during this very session, Wood also contributed to the creation of the Rolling Stones' iconic song, 'It's Only Rock 'n Roll (But I Like It).'
"Mick and I were working on 'I Can Feel The Fire,' and then he asked me to help with 'It's Only Rock 'n Roll.' So, there we were, just Mick, me, and David Bowie, laying down the vocals and guitar. It was a special moment, creating something that would become a Stones classic," Wood recalls.
The Journey Continues
The basic rhythm track recorded at The Wick formed the foundation for the final version of 'It's Only Rock 'n Roll,' which became the title track of the Stones' 12th studio album. And it was around this time that Wood's path with the Stones truly began to intertwine. In December 1974, the Stones' lead guitarist, Mick Taylor, left the band, and Wood, who had known the band for years, was the natural choice to fill the void.
"Sliding into the Stones was effortless for me. I'd known them for years, and the chemistry was there. It was a natural progression," Wood explains.
In 1975, Wood recorded and toured with the Stones while still with the Faces. And in 1976, after the Faces disbanded, Wood officially became a member of the Rolling Stones, a journey that began within the walls of The Wick.
"The Wick was the starting point for so much. It's where I cut my teeth as a solo artist and where I first collaborated with the Stones. It's a chapter in my life and in music history that I'll always cherish," Wood concludes.
The story of Ronnie Wood's London home, The Wick, is a testament to the power of collaboration and the serendipity of artistic creation. It's a reminder that sometimes the most iconic moments in music happen in the most unexpected places, with the most unexpected people. It's a story that showcases the magic that can unfold when musicians gather, creating a legacy that resonates through the ages.
