Billy Preston

Lore & Background

Perhaps his most famous contribution was the track 'You Got the Silver,' where he took center stage with a driving organ solo that became a concert staple. His influence extended beyond just playing; he helped shape the sonic landscape of albums like 'Let It Bleed' and 'Sticky Fingers.' The band's respect for him was such that he was the only non-member credited on an album cover, appearing alongside Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Charlie Watts, and Bill Wyman on the sleeve of 'Let It Bleed,' a rare honor that cemented his legendary status in rock history.

In Their Own Story

The stage lights cut through the haze as the crowd roared for the next set. Billy sat behind his Hammond B-3, fingers dancing over the keys with a joy that was infectious. As Keith launched into a gritty guitar riff, Billy didn't just accompany; he answered, weaving a soulful counter-melody that lifted the entire track from rock to gospel. For those few minutes, the boundary between band and guest dissolved, creating a singular sound that only this specific combination of musicians could achieve.

Reader's Guide

Billy Preston joined The Rolling Stones as an associate musician starting in 1965, initially touring with them before becoming a permanent fixture on stage by 1968. He played keyboards, including the Hammond organ and electric piano, adding a crucial layer of soul to their blues-rock foundation. His tenure was most prominent between 1968 and 1972, where he contributed significantly to albums like 'Let It Bleed' and 'Sticky Fingers.' His major contribution was introducing gospel and R&B textures that softened the band's harder edges and expanded their musical palette. He also performed his own hits during Stones concerts. After his time with the Stones, Preston had a successful solo career, scoring numerous hits like "That's the Way God Planned It" and collaborating with The Beatles on "Get Back." He remained a respected figure in music until his passing in 2006.

Did You Know?

• He is one of the few non-members to be credited by name on a Rolling Stones album cover, specifically 'Let It Bleed'.
• Preston was so integral to the band's sound that he often performed his own solo hits during their concerts.
• His collaboration with The Beatles on 'Get Back' and 'Let It Be' happened around the same time he was working closely with the Stones.
• Mick Jagger once referred to him as the 'fifth member' of the band due to his frequent presence.