Mick Taylor, English singer-songwriter and guitarist

Michael Kevin Taylor: A Guitar Legend's Journey from Bluesbreakers to Rolling Stones and Beyond

Michael Kevin Taylor, born on 17 January 1949, is a highly esteemed English musician and guitarist whose formidable talent first gained widespread recognition during his tenure with John Mayall's Bluesbreakers from 1967 to 1969. During this period, he famously succeeded the legendary Peter Green, quickly establishing himself as a prodigious blues-rock guitarist. His distinctive, fluid, and melodic style flourished, laying the groundwork for his most iconic role as a pivotal member of the Rolling Stones, a position he held from 1969 to 1974.

The Golden Era with The Rolling Stones (1969-1974)

Taylor's five-year stint with the Rolling Stones is often regarded as a transformative period, marked by a rich phase of musical exploration and widespread critical acclaim. As the lead guitarist, his sophisticated, blues-infused improvisations and intricate melodic lines profoundly shaped the band's sound, creating a dynamic counterpoint to Keith Richards' foundational rhythm guitar work. He contributed significantly to some of the Stones' most enduring and celebrated albums, showcasing his unique style:

His contributions during this period were instrumental in crafting the iconic blues-rock identity that defined the Stones' peak creative output, earning him a place in rock history.

Post-Stones Career and Enduring Influence

Following his departure from the Rolling Stones in December 1974, Mick Taylor embarked on a diverse and prolific solo career, concurrently becoming an in-demand collaborator for a wide array of esteemed artists. His post-Stones work consistently showcases his versatility and unwavering dedication to the blues and rock genres. He has notably worked with influential figures such as Jack Bruce (formerly of Cream), the legendary Bob Dylan, avant-garde jazz composer Carla Bley, and even reunited with his former bandleader, John Mayall. Taylor has also released several critically acclaimed solo albums, including his self-titled debut Mick Taylor (1979) and later works like A Stone's Throw (2000), further cementing his enduring talent as a songwriter and instrumentalist.

Taylor's profound impact on rock music has garnered significant critical acclaim. In its definitive 2011 list, Rolling Stone magazine ranked him an impressive 37th among the 100 greatest guitarists of all time. His enduring connection to the Rolling Stones was prominently highlighted when he made a celebrated return to perform with the band. From November 2012, he participated in their highly anticipated 50th-Anniversary shows in London and Newark, followed by appearances on the extensive 50 & Counting tour throughout 2013. This tour included iconic performances across North America, a memorable set at the legendary Glastonbury Festival, and two historic concerts in London's Hyde Park, where he delighted fans by joining the band on classics like "Honky Tonk Women" and "Midnight Rambler," reaffirming his status as a beloved figure in their history. Furthermore, his undeniable influence extends to subsequent generations of musicians, with Guns N' Roses' acclaimed guitarist Slash explicitly citing Mick Taylor as having had the biggest influence on his own playing style, a powerful testament to Taylor's lasting legacy as a true guitar legend.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mick Taylor

When did Mick Taylor join the Rolling Stones?
Mick Taylor officially joined the Rolling Stones in June 1969, stepping in after Brian Jones' departure. His inaugural public performance with the band was at their historic free concert in Hyde Park, London, on July 5, 1969, where he was formally introduced to the world.
Which famous albums feature Mick Taylor's guitar work?
Key albums prominently featuring Mick Taylor's distinctive and influential guitar contributions include Let It Bleed (1969), the dynamic live album Get Yer Ya-Ya's Out! The Rolling Stones in Concert (1970), the iconic Sticky Fingers (1971), the sprawling masterpiece Exile on Main St. (1972), Goats Head Soup (1973), and his final studio album with the group, It's Only Rock 'n Roll (1974).
Why did Mick Taylor leave the Rolling Stones?
Mick Taylor departed the Rolling Stones in December 1974. While the precise reasons are multifaceted, reports indicate he felt creatively constrained, desired more songwriting credits which were largely retained by the Jagger/Richards partnership, and sought the artistic freedom to explore diverse musical projects and pursue a solo career.
What is Mick Taylor's musical style?
Mick Taylor is widely celebrated for his fluid, melodic, and deeply blues-infused guitar style. His playing is characterized by intricate yet soulful solos, expressive string bends, and a remarkable improvisational flair that often provided a sophisticated and technically brilliant counterpoint to Keith Richards' more rhythmic and riff-oriented approach.
Has Mick Taylor rejoined the Rolling Stones permanently?
No, Mick Taylor has not permanently rejoined the Rolling Stones. His significant participation in their 50th-Anniversary shows in 2012 and the subsequent 50 & Counting tour in 2013 was a series of highly anticipated guest appearances, designed to celebrate the band's extensive history and acknowledge his crucial contributions during his original tenure.