"It's Only Rock 'n Roll" is the twelfth studio album by the Rolling Stones, released on October 18, 1974. This album marked the last appearance of guitarist Mick Taylor and featured a connection to his eventual replacement, Ronnie Wood. The album combines the band’s core blues and rock 'n' roll sound with elements of funk and reggae. It reached number one in the United States and number two in the UK.
Although not as commercially successful as previous albums, It's Only Rock 'n Roll was an important transitional work for the band. Following the departure of long-time producer Jimmy Miller, the album was self-produced by Keith Richards and Mick Jagger under the pseudonym "The Glimmer Twins." Taylor, bassist Bill Wyman, and drummer Charlie Watts performed on most tracks, with additional contributions from Ian Stewart, Nicky Hopkins, and Billy Preston. The album also featured percussionist Ray Cooper.
The title track was recorded separately, with a basic rhythm track laid down by members of the Faces during a jam session with Jagger. Jagger brought this track to Richards, who added guitar overdubs. In 1975, the band began auditioning guitarists to replace Taylor while recording their next album, Black and Blue.
Work on the album began after the Rolling Stones' autumn 1973 European tour, with production starting in Munich. Belgian painter Guy Peellaert created the album cover, depicting the band as "rock deities." Initially, the album was to include live performances and cover versions of R&B songs, but it evolved into an all-original material album, with only "Ain't Too Proud to Beg" making the cut.
This was the first album produced by Jagger and Richards, who wanted more control over the recording process. The band recorded backing tracks first, with Jagger's vocals added later. The song "Luxury" showcased their interest in reggae, while ballads like "Till the Next Goodbye" continued their exploration of that genre.
Ronnie Wood became more involved during these sessions, leading to a close friendship with the band. The lead single, "It's Only Rock 'n Roll (But I Like It)," was released on July 26, 1974, and although it reached the top 10 in the UK, it surprisingly did not achieve the same in the US. The album was released on October 18, 1974, and quickly reached number one in the US and number two in the UK.
Instead of touring to promote the album, the band returned to the studio, leading to Taylor's resignation. The title track became a live staple, but many other songs from the album have not been performed since 1977. Music videos were made for several tracks, including the title track, which featured the band in a whimsical setting.
