There Still aint no band quite like The Rolling Stones

By Keir Nicoll

This one I concert I simply needed to attend as a self- proclaimed yet bonafide musicologist who has been studying the evolution of rock n' roll since the psychedelic sixties, a time when the music world underwent a significant transformation. The Rolling Stones' enduring influence on music spans across various genres and has left a lasting impact over the years.

Describing the Stones as seminal is an understatement, to say the least. They remain one of the most influential and historically significant bands in the world for numerous reasons. The concert at BC Place stadium on Friday night featured Ghost Hounds opening for the Stones with their powerful blues-rock style.

The Stones took the stage shortly after, with Mick Jagger captivating the audience in a yellow, black, and white leather jacket during "Start Me Up." The night was filled with a mix of new and classic hits, with "Let's Spend The Night" exuding energy and "Bitch” left at lingering impression.

The performance of "Wild Horses" was so moving that it brought tears to my eyes, and it was followed by a powerful rendition of "Mess It Up". Jagger moved swiftly around the stage, using forceful gestures as he sang his historically-inspired lyrics. Throughout the performance, he changed his outfits, including a bejeweled shirt.

During "You Can't Always Get What You Want," the audience sang along and held their cellphones in the air to record the moment. Keith Richards was impressive, maintaining his guitar licks and riffs throughout the songs, wearing his iconic turquoise headband. Ronnie Woods played alongside him, and Jagger described him as the "Van Gogh of Vancouver and the Basquiat of BC," adding a special touch to the night. Richards took the lead and sang three songs, including "Tell Me Straight," "Little T&A," and "Before They Make Me Run". The later part of the set included highlights like "Gimme Shelter" and "Paint It Black," which still resonate today as they did nearly 60 years ago. Jagger made a joke about the Rolling Stones' love for the Trudeaus, and mentioned that the band had last played in Vancouver 19 years ago and first performed there 59 years ago. The encore ended with "Satisfaction," driving the crowd wild. Mick Jagger addressed the audience at the end of the wings, making the whole experience truly resounding.

The rest of the band was equally professional and contributed to the epic musical proportions of the night. With a rhythm section, two horns, and a backup singer, the band delivered an epic performance, making it a night to remember.