The Misconception About the Rolling Stones' Sticky Fingers Tour: A Historical Misunderstanding

Many music enthusiasts and fans often make the common mistake of thinking that the Rolling Stones had a tour named "Sticky Fingers." However, this understanding is based on a misunderstanding of the history of how the band named their tours. Let's dive into the facts and uncover the truth behind the Rolling Stones and their tour history.

The Reality of the "Sticky Fingers" Album

Sticky Fingers, the 15th studio album by the legendary band The Rolling Stones, was indeed released in 1971. This pivotal album, which was recorded in December 1970 and January 1971, is now considered one of the greatest rock albums of all time. The name "Sticky Fingers" was inspired by a photograph of a cigarette with fingers sticking out of it, which was taken as a publicity stunt. This iconic image was used as the album's cover art.

The "Exile On Main Street" Tour

Often confused with a tour, the album "Exile on Main Street," released in 1972, came with a massive tour to promote it. This eleven-week European tour, which took place in June and July 1972, saw the band performing at numerous venues across the continent. Audience members remember this tour fondly for its eclectic mix of performances and the raw, unpolished sound that audiences got to experience in concert.

The "Exile on Main Street" tour was not officially named so and was referred to as several things by the band and media at the time. For instance, it was sometimes called the "Exile On Main Street Sessions Tour," which highlights the nature of the tour as a continuation of the album's recordings. By the time the Rolling Stones named their tours individually, in 1989 with the "Steel Wheels" tour, things had changed markedly in the music industry, alongside changes in touring practices.

Understanding the Evolution of Rolling Stones Tours

The band's evolution in touring practices and naming conventions reflects broader changes in the music industry. Prior to the 1972 "Exile on Main Street" tour, there was little consistency in how bands named their tours. By the late 1980s, however, tour naming had become a standard practice, with bands like the Rolling Stones leading the trend. This change was influenced by a desire to market tours effectively and to create memorable brands for their fan bases.

Several factors contributed to this shift, including the increasing length of tours, the growing importance of merchandise, and the rise of celebrity culture. Tour naming not only helped in distinguishing one tour from another but also in creating a sense of exclusivity and anticipation for fans. For bands like the Rolling Stones, with a long and storied history, tour naming became a crucial component in maintaining their relevance and appeal.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while there wasn't a "Sticky Fingers" tour in the traditional sense, it is clear that the band had tour activities supporting their 1971 release and 1972 album "Exile on Main Street." The tour that people often confuse with the Sticky Fingers album was named and celebrated for its raw and authentic performances. This misunderstanding highlights the importance of accurately tracking the history of iconic bands and the nuances of rock concert tours.