The name of the Rolling Stones was coined by Brian Jones, who founded the band as a British blues ensemble in 1962. A multi-instrumentalist from Cheltenham, he initially performed as a slide guitarist before expanding his repertoire to include numerous instruments on the group’s early recordings and concert performances.
Early Development and Education
Born on 28 February 1942, Lewis Brian Hopkin Jones attended Dean Close School and Pate's Grammar School. He exhibited early musical proficiency, serving as first clarinet in the school orchestra. While his academic record included O-level and A-level passes, his disdain for institutional conformism led to multiple school suspensions. He discovered the blues through the work of Robert Johnson and Elmore James, eventually transitioning from the saxophone to the acoustic guitar, which his parents gifted him on his 17th birthday.
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Jones organized the Rolling Stones to pursue his interest in blues music. Following the band's formation, he served as the primary leader and public face of the group. However, the creative trajectory of the ensemble shifted as bandmates Keith Richards and Mick Jagger established themselves as a prolific songwriting team. As Jones’s influence regarding the band’s musical direction waned, his studio contributions became inconsistent due to struggles with substance use.
Dismissal and Death
By June 1969, Jones had been dismissed from the band and replaced by guitarist Mick Taylor. He retired to Cotchford Farm in East Sussex, where he died on 3 July 1969 at the age of 27. His death was attributed to drowning in his home swimming pool. He was subsequently buried at Bouncer's Lane Cemetery. In 1989, his contributions as a founding member were recognized through his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Fast facts
- Born: 28 February 1942, Cheltenham
- Died: 3 July 1969, Cotchford Farm
- Nationality: United Kingdom
- Primary band: The Rolling Stones
- Inducted into Rock and Roll Hall of Fame: 1989
- Burial site: Bouncer's Lane Cemetery
- Education: Pate's Grammar School; Dean Close School
Questions readers ask
Did Brian Jones write the songs for the Rolling Stones?
While Jones founded the band and served as its initial musical leader, Mick Jagger and Keith Richards became the primary songwriting team for the group.
What caused the death of Brian Jones?
Brian Jones died by drowning in the swimming pool at his home at Cotchford Farm at the age of 27.
Achievements
- Instruments: harmonica, guitar and clarinet
- Genres: rock music, rock and roll and blues rock
