Ian Stewart, born on July 18, 1938, in Glasgow, Scotland, was a pivotal figure in the history of rock music as a founding member of The Rolling Stones. Often referred to as the ‘sixth Stone,’ Stewart’s contributions extended beyond mere performance; he was a talented pianist, songwriter, and producer whose influence shaped the band’s sound and trajectory. Stewart’s early life was marked by a passion for music, which he pursued fervently from a young age. He began playing the piano at the age of 12 and was heavily influenced by the rhythm and blues music that permeated the British music scene in the 1950s.
Stewart’s career took off in the early 1960s when he formed The Rolling Stones alongside Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Brian Jones, Bill Wyman, and Charlie Watts. While Stewart was initially a full-time member of the band, his role began to shift as the group gained popularity. In 1963, he was removed from the official lineup due to the band’s desire for a more streamlined image, but he continued to play a crucial role behind the scenes as a road manager and session musician. His distinctive boogie-woogie piano style can be heard on numerous tracks throughout the Stones’ discography, including classics like “Little Red Rooster,” “You Can’t Always Get What You Want,” and “Honky Tonk Women.”
Throughout his career, Stewart was also involved in various side projects and collaborations. He was a member of the band The Dirty Mac, which featured Eric Clapton and John Lennon, and he worked with other notable artists such as Bob Dylan and the Faces. Stewart’s contributions to rock music were not limited to his performances; he also served as a producer for several albums, including those of The Rolling Stones and other artists. His work helped to define the sound of rock music in the 1960s and 70s.
Ian Stewart’s artistic significance lies in his ability to blend traditional blues with rock, creating a sound that was both innovative and timeless. His influence on The Rolling Stones and the broader rock genre is undeniable, as he helped to lay the groundwork for future generations of musicians. Despite his contributions, Stewart remained somewhat in the shadows, often overshadowed by the more prominent members of the band. However, his legacy endures, and he is remembered as a key architect of the sound that defined one of the most successful bands in music history. Stewart passed away on December 12, 1985, but his impact on rock music continues to resonate today.