What’s that bar band playing “Jumpin’ Jack Flash”? Oh, it’s the Rolling Stones!

The renowned Rolling Stones, those marvels of contemporary musical craftsmanship, marked the launch of their first collection of original compositions in nearly two decades with a performance at a Manhattan nightclub on Thursday.

Before an audience brimming with luminaries, including Christie Brinkley, Elvis Costello, and Trevor Noah, all specially invited to Racket NYC, the Stones themselves made quite an impression with a set comprising seven songs, including four from their fresh release, “Hackney Diamonds.”

Mick Jagger made reference to the band’s previous endeavors in New York to promote new music over the years, such as their impromptu performance on a flatbed truck on Fifth Avenue. As a nod to the city, he opened the show with the punk-infused ’70s track “Shattered,” featuring the lyric “my brain’s been splattered all over Manhattan.”

Following the rendition of their new single, “Angry,” Jagger humorously observed to his fellow band members, “There’s a first time for everything.”

With the loss of drummer Charlie Watts in 2021, the Rolling Stones now consist of a core trio—Jagger, and guitarists Keith Richards and Ron Wood—augmented by four additional musicians on stage.

“Hackney Diamonds,” arriving at a time when many fans wondered if the Rolling Stones would ever grace us with new music again, has been warmly embraced by critics, who have lauded the band’s vibrant energy. The album is set to be released on Friday.

This vitality was palpable during their performance in Manhattan’s Meatpacking District. Following an opening DJ set by Questlove, Jagger, now 80 years old, moved about a stage considerably smaller than what he’s accustomed to. The stage had been meticulously prepared by a roadie who dusted powder on the floor. Jagger moved with the agility of a man half his age. After a spirited rendition of another punk-inspired number, “Bite My Head Off,” he caught his breath, his tongue slightly protruding.

“You might recognize this one,” Jagger remarked as Keith Richards initiated the iconic riff to “Jumpin’ Jack Flash,” instantly surpassing the countless bar band interpretations attempted in the 55 years since the song’s debut.

This time, the bar band was none other than the Rolling Stones.

Lady Gaga, resplendent in a maroon sequined pantsuit, seemed to reenact her duet—or rather, duel—with Jagger on their new track, “Sweet Sounds of Heaven.”

“New York, the Rolling Stones!” she exclaimed before departing, sharing kisses with Jagger and Richards.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Rolling Stones Performance

More about Rolling Stones Performance

• Rolling Stones Official Website
• Hackney Diamonds Album Information
• Rolling Stones’ History and Discography
• Mick Jagger’s Biography
• Charlie Watts Tribute
• Lady Gaga’s Official Website