After Brian Jones left The Rolling Stones in the late ‘60s, the band was at a pivotal moment. Known for their gritty, blues-inspired sound, The Stones needed a guitarist with both technical skill and a feel for the blues—a talent who could match Keith Richards and help propel the band forward. Several guitar icons nearly took that role, each bringing their own style and legacy that might have transformed the band’s sound.
One of the first names floated was Eric Clapton. Already a leading figure in British rock, Clapton had made waves with John Mayall & the Bluesbreakers, Cream, and Blind Faith, carving out a reputation as one of the era’s top guitarists. Clapton was tempted but eventually decided against joining, citing concerns about band dynamics and the toll that touring could take after his experiences with past bands. “The pros and cons of being in a band like that were massively extreme,” Clapton later said, passing up what could have been one of rock’s most legendary collaborations.
Ry Cooder, another esteemed guitarist, was also in the running. Known for his mastery of slide guitar and his deep appreciation for roots music, Cooder could have brought an entirely new flavor to the Stones’ sound. However, his distinctive style and desire for creative independence ultimately led him to pursue solo projects rather than joining a major rock band.
Jeff Beck, a guitar virtuoso with a resume including The Yardbirds and The Jeff Beck Group, was also a serious contender. Like Clapton, Beck’s style was influential and innovative, pushing the boundaries of what rock guitar could sound like. However, personality clashes and creative differences made the Stones wary of bringing Beck into the fold, and he continued to chart his own path with his solo career.
The Stones also considered Shuggie Otis, a young guitar prodigy known for his soulful approach and innovative techniques. Though Otis could have added a fresh and unique sound to the band, the timing ultimately wasn’t right for the collaboration. Similarly, blues-rock guitarist Rory Gallagher was another musician who almost became a Stone. Known for his passionate playing and work ethic, Gallagher was close to signing on but ultimately declined, preferring the freedom of his solo career.
After exploring these possibilities, The Stones found what they were looking for in Mick Taylor, who joined in 1969 and quickly proved himself a versatile and gifted addition. Taylor brought a fluid, melodic style that contributed to some of the band’s most celebrated albums, including Let It Bleed and Sticky Fingers. While each of these guitar legends went on to carve out their own place in music history, it’s fascinating to imagine how their unique styles might have reshaped The Rolling Stones had they taken the gig.
