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The Rolling Stones mark 50 years as a band... and how they've changed

28/05/2012 23:57

As these pictures show, half a century of groupies, drug busts and touring have all taken their toll... on some more than others

They've gathered plenty of moss over the years but the Stones are still rolling as they ­celebrate the band’s 50th birthday next month.

As these pictures show, half a century of groupies, drug busts and touring have all taken their toll... on some more than others.

It’s hard to believe craggy-faced Keith Richards is the youngest original member at 68. Meanwhile, Sir Mick Jagger, also 68, showed he’s still a star turn on US ­comedy show ­Saturday Night Live last week.

Drummer Charlie Watts, who battled throat cancer in 2004, is the oldest current member at 71. Bill Wyman, 75, left in 1992 but is said to be ready to rejoin for ­rumoured reunion gigs this year.

Ex-guitarist Mick Taylor, who left after five years in 1974, is 63, and his replacement Ronnie Wood (joined in 1975) is 64.

The band began in June 1962 after Mick and Keith, who met at school in Kent, responded to an ad placed in Jazz News by original guitarist Brian Jones, who died at 27 in 1969.

The toll of drugs: Keith Richards is boyish at 20 but looks like a pirate hobo now

 

Gathering a little moss: Bill Wyman in his 70s and as a 27-year-old

 

Evergreen: Charlie Watts aged 23 and still looking good at 73

 

Grizzled: Mick Jagger aged 20 and in his 60s