Written by: Penelope Wildwood

Brian Jones: The Founding Father of the Rolling Stones

Brian Jones, the enigmatic founder of the Rolling Stones, left an indelible mark on the music world with his eclectic style, innovative instrumentation, and rebellious spirit. As the original leader of the British rock band, Jones' creative vision and charisma shaped the direction of the group, earning him a place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Early Life and Influences

Born Lewis Brian Hopkin Jones on February 28, 1942, in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, England, Jones' early life was marked by a diagnosis of asthma at the age of four, which would later affect his health. His middle-class upbringing and Welsh descent instilled in him a sense of culture and creativity. Jones attended local schools, where he developed a passion for music, badminton, and diving.

The Birth of the Rolling Stones

In 1962, Jones founded the Rolling Stones, initially a British blues outfit, with his vision to create a band that blended American blues and rock 'n' roll. The original lineup consisted of Jones, Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Bill Wyman, and Charlie Watts. Jones' instrumental versatility and innovative approach to music helped shape the band's distinctive sound.

Musical Contributions and Legacy

As a multi-instrumentalist, Jones played a wide range of instruments, including slide guitar, harmonica, and sitar, introducing exotic sounds to the band's repertoire. His contributions to albums like Beggars Banquet and Let It Bleed are still celebrated today. Jones' innovative style and influence can be heard in songs like "Paint It Black" and "Sympathy for the Devil."

Personal Struggles and Demise

Jones' personal struggles with drug and alcohol abuse took a toll on his health and his role within the band. His performance became increasingly unreliable, leading to a diminished role in the group. In June 1969, the Rolling Stones dismissed Jones, and guitarist Mick Taylor took his place. Tragically, Jones died just a month later, on July 3, 1969, by drowning in the swimming pool at his home, Cotchford Farm, in East Sussex.

Impact on Pop Culture and Legacy

Jones' untimely death inspired a wave of tributes from fellow artists, including Pete Townshend and Jim Morrison, who wrote poems in his memory. The Rolling Stones' subsequent success cemented Jones' legacy as a founding father of rock 'n' roll. In 1989, Jones was posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of the Rolling Stones.

Quotable Brian Jones

• "I'm not a businessman, I'm a business, man."
• "The Stones are not just a band, they're a way of life."

Trivia and Fun Facts

• Jones was known for his androgynous fashion sense, often wearing makeup and feminine clothing.
• He was a cat lover and had several felines at his home, Cotchford Farm.
• Jones was originally buried in Cheltenham Cemetery, but his grave was later relocated to a more private location.

Brian Jones' short but extraordinary life left an indelible mark on the music world. His innovative spirit, rebellious attitude, and contributions to the Rolling Stones continue to inspire generations of musicians and fans alike.