In the world of rock and roll, where legends are born and collaborations create magic, the story of Ronnie Wood and his iconic home, The Wick, is a fascinating glimpse into the heart of musical creativity. This article delves into the unique role The Wick played in shaping the career of Ronnie Wood and, by extension, the legendary Rolling Stones.
The Musical Hub
Imagine a four-storey Georgian mansion overlooking the River Thames, a place where musical icons gathered, creating an atmosphere of collaboration and inspiration. This was The Wick, Ronnie Wood's home in the early '70s. Wood, then a member of the Faces, transformed this residence into a vibrant hub, attracting an eclectic mix of musicians, from the famous to the up-and-coming.
"My house, The Wick, was the hub of musical activity. They were all queuing up down the stairs, you know - everyone from Gregg Allman to Paul McCartney." - Ronnie Wood
Among the regular visitors were Wood's Faces bandmate, Rod Stewart, and acclaimed bassists like Ric Grech and Willie Weeks, who had worked with George Harrison and David Bowie. The Wick buzzed with energy and talent, fostering an environment where musical ideas could flourish.
Impromptu Lessons and Star-Studded Sessions
The Wick wasn't just a meeting place; it was a creative incubator. Wood recalls giving an impromptu guitar lesson to two legendary drummers, Keith Moon and Ringo Starr. Imagine the dynamic energy in the room as these icons sought guidance from Wood! This anecdote highlights the unique, intimate nature of the musical community that The Wick fostered.
"Keith Moon was playing there. Ringo [Starr] was playing there at the same time, and they were going, 'We're fed up with this, Ron, where's the rest of the band?' And I was like, 'Well, I don't know where they are, and they said, 'Well, let's do guitar lessons.' So it was me teaching Ringo and Keith Moon the chord of E for a few hours..." - Ronnie Wood
In 1974, Wood recorded his debut solo album, "I've Got My Own Album To Do," at The Wick. This project brought together an impressive array of talent, including George Harrison, Keith Richards, Mick Jagger, David Bowie, and Rod Stewart. The album's opening track, "I Can Feel The Fire," featured Wood alongside Willie Weeks, Andy Newmark, Jagger, Richards, and Bowie. This session also marked Wood's involvement in the creation of the Rolling Stones' iconic song, "It's Only Rock 'n Roll (But I Like It)."
The Birth of a Classic
Wood's collaboration with Mick Jagger on "I Can Feel The Fire" led to their work on "It's Only Rock 'n Roll." The basic track, featuring Wood, Jagger, Bowie, Willie Weeks, and Kenney Jones, was recorded at The Wick and formed the foundation for the final version of the song. This track, with its unique blend of talent, became the title track of the Stones' 12th studio album, released in October 1974.
"There's only me and Mick and David Bowie and Willie Weeks, Kenney Jones on it, the basic track." - Ronnie Wood
The song, credited solely to Jagger and Richards, showcases the creative synergy between these musical giants and the unique environment that The Wick provided.
A Journey Begins
In December 1974, the Stones' lead guitarist, Mick Taylor, left the band, and Wood, with his established connection to the band, was the natural choice to fill the role. Wood's transition into the Stones was seamless, as he had known them for years. In 1975, he began recording and touring with the band while still a member of the Faces, and in 1976, after the Faces disbanded, Wood became an official Stone.
The Wick, though no longer Wood's residence, was the starting point for this journey. It was here that Wood's path intertwined with the Rolling Stones, leading to a lasting musical legacy.
"Oh, it was easy for me to slide in there. Yeah, because I'd known them on and off for years." - Ronnie Wood
The story of The Wick and its musical inhabitants is a testament to the power of collaboration and the serendipity that can shape artistic careers. It's a reminder that sometimes the most iconic moments in music happen not in grand studios but in the intimate, vibrant spaces where artists gather and create.
