Recently, Rolling Stone magazine's readers voted for their favorite Rolling Stones albums.

The number one spot went to 'Exile On Main St.'
Not much argument there, so let's take a quick look at this amazing album.

Songs for this double album were recorded between 1968 and 1972, released on May 12th, 1972 as the band's 12th U.S. and 10th UK album.

While those who call themselves critics welcomed the lp with mixed reviews, it's pretty much agreed that 'Exile On Main St.' is the Rolling Stone's best to date.
Many of those critics who originally panned the album, later changed their tune to this being one of the best albums of all time!

In 1971, due to owing the British Government more taxes than they could afford, the band members moved to France, where this album ended up being recorded (actually the basement of Keith Richards residence, using their mobile recording truck.)

The Certified Platinum double LP contained18 songs (in 2010 a bonus disc was released containing 11 tunes including 'Plundered My Soul') and reached the number one position on the U.S. and UK charts.
The bonus disc in 2010 reached number 2 on the Top 200 chart.

Just as the album was released, the Stones were beginning their 1972 American tour - their first in 3 years.

'Tumbling Dice' (peaking at #7) and 'Happy' (peaking at #22) were the most popular tunes on the album.

Did you know that the band 'Phish' covered the album as the musical costume for a Halloween show?
The 4th season's first episode of  the 'Showtime' series 'Californication', was named 'Exile on Main St.'

Enjoy this version of The Rolling Stones 'Tumblin' Dice' from a concert film, shot over four nights in Texas during the "Exile On Main Street" tour in 1972.

 

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