From Studio to Stage: The Fascinating Journey of Don Was and His Collaboration with the Rolling Stones
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9 months ago
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The Unexpected Alliance: How Don Was Became the Rolling Stones’ Go-To Producer
In the early 1990s, the Rolling Stones embarked on a remarkable collaboration with the esteemed producer Don Was. However, during their initial meeting, Was was left questioning whether he woudl ever land the role after witnessing a fiery exchange between Mick Jagger and Keith Richards.
At that point in his career,Was had already made a name for himself,producing albums for artists like Carly Simon,Iggy Pop,and the B-52s,along with a complete box set for Elton John. Yet,working with the Stones represented a important leap in his career.
A Chaotic Introduction
“The label insisted thay needed a producer, so I was sent to New York City while the band was auditioning bass players at SIR,” Was recalls in an upcoming interview with Guitar World.
“Mick and Keith approached me and sat on either side, both speaking at once. It was like watching a tennis match with my head going back and forth,” he laughs. “Mick was outlining his vision for a producer, while Keith was adamant about why they didn’t need one. This went on for what felt like an eternity!”
eventually, a tense silence filled the room.
“Then Keith asked, ‘Are you sure you want to be the meat in this sandwich?’” Was remembers. “I left that meeting thinking I’d never see them again.”
A Surprising Turn of Events
Though, fate had other plans. Just four days later, Keith reached out to Was, apologizing for his earlier brusqueness and suggesting they might indeed benefit from a producer. “He mentioned wanting to work with Don Smith as the engineer for their upcoming album, Voodoo Lounge, as Don had done a fantastic job on his solo projects with The Expensive Winos. But Mick wanted someone neutral behind the console, so Keith wanted me to discuss it with him,” Was explains.
Despite the brief time that had passed, the duo was still at odds. once again, Was found himself in the middle of their dynamic, but this time, luck was on his side.
“As it turned out, I had collaborated with Don Smith frequently and admired his work, believing he would be perfect for the album,” he shares.”I called Mick and told him that Don was my choice, not just Keith’s. Mick eventually agreed, and when I informed Keith that Don Smith was on board, he quipped, ‘Your name’s not Don Was – it’s Don Is.’”
“I was officially hired,and this pattern of diplomatic negotiations continued for the next 25 years.”
A Legacy of Collaboration
Throughout their partnership, they produced four albums together. Following Voodoo Lounge, they released Bridges to Babylon in 1997. After an eight-year hiatus, they returned with A Bigger Bang, and another eleven years later, they unveiled Blue & Lonesome, alongside various live albums and greatest hits compilations.
In 2024, the band turned to acclaimed producer andrew Watt for their latest project, Hackney Diamonds, which has been praised for showcasing some of their best guitar work in years. Notably, the album also marked the return of former bassist Bill Wyman, despite his reservations about the track he contributed to.
(Image credit: Getty Images)
With Don Was at the helm, the Rolling Stones not only gained a talented producer but also a mediator who adeptly navigated the complexities of Jagger and Richards’ contrasting perspectives.
Stay tuned for the full interview with Don Was, coming soon!
From Studio to stage: The Fascinating Journey of Don Was and His Collaboration with the Rolling Stones
from Studio to Stage: The Fascinating Journey of Don Was and His Collaboration with the rolling Stones
The Early Days of Don Was
Don Was, an acclaimed music producer and musician, first made waves in the music industry in the 1980s. Known for his unique sound and ability to blend genres, Was quickly became a sought-after producer. His work with artists like Carly Simon, Iggy Pop, and the B-52s laid the groundwork for his future collaborations.
First Encounter with the Rolling Stones
In the early 1990s, Was was presented with an possibility that would change his career forever: working with the legendary Rolling Stones. However, his first meeting with Mick Jagger and Keith Richards was anything but smooth. Was recalls a chaotic discussion where both band members spoke over each other, outlining their conflicting visions for the band’s future.
The Tense Meeting
“Mick was outlining what he wanted in a producer, while Keith was explaining why they didn’t need one,” Was humorously recounts. This initial encounter left him doubting whether he would ever work with the band again. However, just days later, Keith Richards reached out to apologize and suggested that they might indeed benefit from a producer.
The Breakthrough: Producing Voodoo Lounge
after some back-and-forth, Was was officially hired to produce the Rolling Stones’ album Voodoo Lounge. This marked the beginning of a long and fruitful collaboration that would span over two decades.
Key Contributions to Voodoo Lounge
Innovative sound engineering techniques that enhanced the band’s classic rock sound.
Collaboration with renowned engineer Don Smith, which brought a fresh outlook to the recording process.
Incorporation of diverse musical influences, reflecting Was’s eclectic background.
Building a Lasting Relationship
was’s ability to mediate between Jagger and Richards became a hallmark of their collaboration. Over the years, he produced several albums, including:
Album
release Year
Notable Tracks
Voodoo Lounge
1994
“Love Is Strong,” “You Got Me Rocking”
Bridges to Babylon
1997
“Anybody Seen My Baby?” “Out of Control”
A Bigger Bang
2005
“Rough Justice,” “Streets of Love”
Blue & Lonesome
2016
“Just Your Fool,” “Hate to See You Go”
Creative Process and Techniques
Was’s approach to production is characterized by a few key techniques that have proven effective in working with the Rolling Stones:
1. Collaborative Environment
Was fosters a collaborative atmosphere in the studio, encouraging band members to express their ideas freely. This approach has led to some of the band’s most innovative work.
2. Embracing Technology
Utilizing modern recording technology, Was has been able to enhance the band’s sound while maintaining their classic rock roots. his expertise in sound engineering has allowed for a seamless blend of customary and contemporary elements.
3. Mediation Skills
As a mediator between Jagger and Richards, Was has played a crucial role in resolving creative differences. His ability to navigate their contrasting personalities has been essential in keeping the band united.
Impact on the Rolling Stones’ Legacy
Don Was’s influence on the Rolling Stones cannot be overstated. His production work has not only revitalized their sound but has also helped the band remain relevant in an ever-changing music landscape. The collaboration has resulted in:
Successful tours that have drawn millions of fans worldwide.
A renewed interest in the band’s music among younger generations.
Case Study: Blue & Lonesome
The 2016 album Blue & Lonesome serves as a prime example of Was’s impact. This album marked a return to the band’s blues roots and was recorded in just three days. The raw energy captured in the studio reflects Was’s ability to create an authentic and spontaneous recording environment.
Key Highlights of Blue & Lonesome
Features covers of classic blues tracks, showcasing the band’s influences.
Received critical acclaim, winning the Grammy Award for Best Traditional blues Album.
Reinforced the band’s status as rock legends while appealing to blues enthusiasts.
First-Hand Experience: Don Was on Working with the Stones
In interviews, Was often shares anecdotes from his time with the Rolling Stones.He describes the experience as both exhilarating and challenging, emphasizing the importance of adaptability in the studio. “Every day is different,and you have to be ready for anything,” he notes.
Benefits of Collaborating with a producer Like Don Was
Working with a seasoned producer like Don Was offers numerous advantages for artists:
Expert Guidance: Producers bring a wealth of experience and knowledge, helping artists refine their sound.
Creative Collaboration: A good producer fosters a collaborative environment, encouraging artists to explore new ideas.
Technical Expertise: Producers have the technical skills necessary to enhance recordings, ensuring high-quality sound.
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