Here is the real story of the Rolling Stones, as told by the Stones themselves. In their own words, Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Charlie Watts, and Ronnie Wood get right to the heart of what makes the Stones the Stones, as musicians, songwriters, performers, and colleagues, describing how their music has evolved and revealing frankly how their own lives have helped or hindered their music-making. The Stone's own stories are complemented by insider reflections from key players in their story over the years. They begin with their personal roots in the south of England and the musical roots in R & B that brought them together as a band. From the first tiny club gigs, where only Mick had enough room to shake and rattle, to the huge stadiums with their groundbreaking sets; from starting out as a cover band to becoming 'the greatest rock 'n' roll band in the world, ' the Stone's is a journey that began with almost immediate successes - and inevitable pressures. It's also a journey that only the Stones can truly tell.