Bill's 'Desert Island Books' featured in the Mayfair Times
Bill was asked to write about his ‘Desert Island Book’s for Mayfair Times August issue – the five books from across his lifetime that have meant the most to him and had a significant impact.
See the article below for Bill's memorable books – which ones have you read?
Bill featured in Sloane Square Magazine
Bill recently met with journalist Adrian Day to discuss his research into the London Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, and his love for the area where he has lived and worked for many years. Bill is compiling his research into a book on Chelsea, complete with his own photos, which will be published next year.
The interview was featured in the latest issue of Sloane Square Magazine, which also featured a piece of the unveiling of Henrietta Caledon’s new map of Chelsea in Ropers Gardens. Bill contributed to the creation of the map and attended the event.
Bill attends Iconic Images private gallery viewing
On June 9th Bill spent the evening at the wonderful Iconic Images gallery in Chelsea, where several of his photos of the Stones are currently being exhibited for sale.
These will be available to view and purchase until further notice, and a larger collection of Bill’s photography can be found in his book ‘Stones From The Inside’.
New map of Chelsea unveiled with Bill's contributions
Bill is an authority on the borough of Kensington and Chelsea, where he first began rehearsing with the Stones in the early 1960’s, and where he still lives and works today. He has spent several years researching the history of Chelsea and its past and present famous inhabitants, as well as taking photographs of the area.
Bill recently advised local artist Henrietta Caledon on the history of Chelsea and its famous inhabitants, past and present, to help produce a beautiful new illustrative map of Chelsea.
On May 24th the map was officially unveiled at Ropers Gardens by the Mayor of the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, Councillor Gerard Hargreaves, and Bill said a few words on the occasion.
Bill has also compiled his own research and photographs into an authoritative book on Chelsea, soon to be published.
Bill auctions off Sticky Fingers memorabilia
Memorabilia from the walls of Bill’s legendary Sticky Fingers restaurant, which sadly closed its doors in June 2021 due to the covid pandemic, were up for auction with Julien’s Auctions in May.
The auction included guitars from iconic performances, tours and recording sessions, such as Bill’s 1965 Framus Star Bass, 1969 Fender Telecaster, and 1978 custom Travis Bean bass, as well as gold record awards, tour posters, rare photos and much more. Bill opened Sticky Fingers in May 1989 to display part of his memorabilia archive to the public, and to provide a fine and decently priced American style menu.
Bill says of Sticky Fingers:
“Every year we celebrated the restaurant's anniversaries, and Halloween, with wonderful parties. The restaurant was also host to annual visits by numerous American Radio Stations, and thousands of fans from every corner of the globe. I would take great pride in reading the fan letters that would arrive at the restaurant thanking me for the wonderful food and service, and the experience of looking at the mass of memorabilia and instruments displayed on the walls.”
The restaurant was also popular with a number of celebrities who visited over the years, including Princess Diana and Princes William and Harry, who told Bill it was their favourite place to eat. Bob Dylan, Alice Cooper, Mick Fleetwood, Ronnie Wood, and Mick Ronson were all fellow musicians who visited frequently, and Gary Brooker, Stevie Van Zandt, Steve Stills and Don Was, would come to eat after their shows in London. Jerry Hall would regularly visit with her children, while Twiggy and actors Dennis Hopper, Jeremy Irons, Leslie Nielsen, Lionel Bart, Gina Lollobrigida, Herbert Lom and Bob Hoskins all dined there.
The auction was part of Julien’s annual ‘Music Icons’ auction, which was held on May 20th, 21st and 22nd, and offered bidders a chance to own a piece of Sticky Fingers history for themselves.
Bill attends Photo London for a book signing of Stones From The Inside
On May 14th Bill attended Photo London at Somerset House with Iconic Images for a signing of his book of photographs of the Stones, ‘Stones From The Inside’.
He signed a large number of books and had a lovely time meeting fans, and reconnecting with photographer Gered Mankowitz, who shot many iconic photos of the Stones over the years
Some of Bill’s signed photo prints were also exhibited for sale. These have since been moved to the Iconic Images Gallery in Chelsea, where they can be viewed and purchased. Bill’s book ‘Stones From The Inside’ can also be purchased here.
Bill Wyman documentary 'The Quiet One' - PAL DVD launches December 17, 2021
Bill Wyman's extraordinary rock 'n' roll documentary The Quiet One is set for release on PAL DVD on December 17, 2021 – and you can preorder The Quiet One on PAL DVD from Bill's official online store.
The PAL DVD format can be played in UK DVD players, making it the perfect collector's item or Christmas gift for fans in the UK.
'The Quiet One' – which is a directorial debut of Oliver Murray – offers a unique behind-the-scenes look at the highs and lows of the life and career of Bill Wyman, founding member of The Rolling Stones and renaissance man of rock and roll.
Known by his former bandmates as a man of few words, the notoriously private bass player opens up to the camera, revealing the icons who inspired him to be a musician, from the likes of Chuck Berry and Ray Charles to Muddy Waters and Howlin' Wolf. Wyman describes with modesty and vulnerability how he stayed grounded while seizing the meaningful moments that made up his thirty years touring the world with the Stones.
Throughout his life, Bill Wyman shot hours of unseen film footage, took thousands of photographs, and collected a vast archive of memorabilia. He also kept a detailed diary to accompany these treasures. The film unveils this one-of-a-kind collection, alongside interviews with his family and friends, taking the audience on a first-hand journey through Wyman's extraordinary experiences. Watching his footage and hearing his stories is like going back in time to stand at Bill's shoulder and experience his life first-hand.
You can preorder The Quiet One in PAL DVD format now in Bill's shop. It will ship from December 17, 2021.
The NTSC version is currently available on Amazon.
Charlie Watts – "Like A Brother To Me"
Charlie, you were like a brother to me.
In the band and in life.
Rest in peace.
Bill Wyman
Bill's 'beloved' restaurant Sticky Fingers closes after 32 years
Bill has announced the sad news that Sticky Fingers, his London restaurant that was a haven for rock 'n' roll and great food, has closed its doors for good after 32 years.
Bill says that the closure is a result of the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic:
"This is a difficult time for many restaurants and businesses around the world. My heart goes out to all those affected by Covid. I also have the sad news to report that my beloved Sticky Fingers restaurant has closed for the last time because of the pandemic. I would like to thank everyone who has supported Sticky’s, both customers and staff, over a wonderful 32 years of business. Stay safe."
The restaurant was a popular London eatery and a fan favourite - with American-inspired comfort food designed to get your hands messy. It was named after the Rolling Stones song of the same name.
Fans were quick to pay tribute to the restaurant on Facebook:
"We are so sad to hear this Bill. On all our visits to London, we enjoyed the food and the atmosphere very much. Thank you to all the staff and especially to you Bill. Keep safe" - Pauline Horner
"Thank you, Mr Wyman, Sticky Fingers gave me one of the best nights with my mother and father, which I will cherish for all my life. We had travelled from Malta to visit the restaurant and it was a great experience indeed. Good luck with your future ventures." - Rhona Xerri
"VERY VERY sad news. I have been there many times and I love the place. Such great food and service and not to forget all of Bills Wonderful Stones stuff on the walls. ❤️" - Olle Wiman
"Oh no, I‘m heartbroken … 😢😢😢the Sticky Fingers was my favorite restaurant in London for many decades …. Every year I celebrated my birthday there and had so many great moments … this is so sad but I wish you Bill Wyman and the staff all the best and please stay healthy." – Claudia Mahlert
Mick Fleetwood & Friends On Demand Concert Featuring Bill Wyman
Mick Fleetwood and Friends Celebrate the Music of Peter Green and the Early Years of Fleetwood Mac. Filmed at The London Palladium in February 2020, the special concert event debuts to the public on Saturday, April 24.
Following the 1-year anniversary of the Mick Fleetwood & Friends concert which took place at the iconic London Palladium on 25th February 2020, it has now been announced that the show will be streamed live via video on demand on April 24 at 3PM ET.
This show, curated by Mick Fleetwood, is a testament to the far-reaching and hugely important effect Peter Green had on the world. The participants that night included Neil Finn, Noel Gallagher, Billy Gibbons, David Gilmour, Kirk Hammett, John Mayall, Christine McVie, Jeremy Spencer, Zak Starkey, Pete Townshend, Steven Tyler and Bill Wyman.
Legendary producer Glyn Johns joined as the executive sound producer and the house band featured Mick Fleetwood himself along with Dave Bronze, Jonny Lang, Andy Fairweather Low, Ricky Peterson and Rick Vito.
Due to on-going Covid-19 restrictions, the film of Mick Fleetwood And Friends, the one-of-a-kind concert honouring the early years of Fleetwood Mac and its founder Peter Green, will now be streamed online via Nugs.net from 24th April as well as cinemas in Australia and New Zealand from 25th March.
Tickets on sale now from Mick Fleetwood & Friends
To get you in the mood, enjoy the trailer for the concert below!
Bill pays tribute to singer Mary Wilson
Bill has paid tribute to The Supremes co-founder and singer Mary Wilson, following the sad news of her death aged 76.
Mary gained global recognition as one of the founding members of The Supremes, which she remained a member of until the group split. The Supremes were the most successful Motown act of the 190s, and hold the record as the best charting female group in US chart history.
Mary performed with Bill Wyman's Rhythm Kings over the years, performing live with Bill while touring.
Mary passed away at her home in Nevada.
Bill says:
It saddens my heart to learn of the passing of my dear dear friend of over 40 years - Mary Wilson. But here is a hopeful message I’m sure she would have wanted to share with everyone. This clip shows her beautiful spirit, her warm smile and infectious voice. Her tours with me and the Rhythm Kings were a delight, the whole band are saddened by her passing.
Her memory will forever live on in my life.
Watch the video clip of Mary Wilson below:
Photo: Ans Van Heck
Bill Wyman's The Quiet One – Streaming Now On Demand
Bill Wyman's documentary The Quiet One is now available to stream on-demand in HD directly from Bill's site – and you can rent at watch at home for just £7.66.
Bill Wyman's The Quiet One showing at Olympic Studios Cinema
Bill Wyman's documentary The Quiet One is showing at London's famed Olympic Studios Cinema on October 13 and 15, 2020.
The Rolling Stones – In The Beginning new and expanded edition launches
A new and expanded edition of The Rolling Stones: In The Beginning by Bent Rej is launching on October 1, with previously unseen images and forward by Bill Wyman.
The Quiet One set for UK cinematic release on October 2, 2020
The Quiet One – a documentary charting the incredible career of Bill Wyman – is set for release in UK cinemas in October following its successful North American release.
Bill's Rolling Stones auction sees record-breaking sales
Bill's auction of Rolling Stones memorabilia hit the high notes over the weekend, with record-breaking sales for his bass and amplifiers.
Bill reveals his favourite memorabilia in Rolling Stones auction
Bill has revealed his favourite Rolling Stones memorabilia ahead of his Property From Bill Wyman And His Rolling Stones Archive auction, which starts today!
Countdown to Bill's Rolling Stones Auction in September
We're counting down the days until Bill Wyman and his Rolling Stones Archive auction takes place on September 11-13, 2020, at Julien's Auctions in Beverley Hills.
Bill named as one of the 50 greatest bassists of all time
Rolling Stone Magazine has named Bill as one of the top 50 greatest bassists of all time, alongside other greats including James Jamerson, Charles Mingus, Sting and Lemmy.
Bill Wyman’s Blues Odyssey Box Set – Launching July 17th
Bill is launching a special collector's edition Blues Odyssey Box Set – and you can pre-order yours today!
Bill donates famed Steel Wheels bass amp rig to MusiCares charity auction
Bill has donated his famous - and massive - Steel Wheels bass amp rig to a charity auction in aid of MusiCares, supporting artists and musicians impacted by coronavirus.
Bill pays tribute to Bonnie Pointer – one of the original Pointer Sisters
Bill has expressed his sadness at the passing of Bonnie Pointer, part of the original Pointer Sisters line-up, who has died aged 69.
Bill reveals Rolling Stones auction memorabilia in special video
Bill has revealed some of the collector's items from his forthcoming memorabilia auction – the Property From Bill Wyman and his Rolling Stones Archive courtesy of Ripple Productions – that is being held on September 12-13, 2020.
New dates announced for Bill's Rolling Stones Archive auction
New dates have been announced for the auction of Bill Wyman's archive collection of Rolling Stones property, which has been rescheduled due to the coronavirus crisis.
Forbes interviews Bill about photography and influences
US site Forbes has conducted an in-depth interview with Bill about his photography, and how Bill developed his own, unique style of photography.
Bill pays tribute to poet, singer and songwriter John Prine
Bill has paid tribute to the poet, singer and songwriter John Prine, who sadly died in Nashville TN on April 7 after contracting coronavirus.
Bill pays tribute to I Love Rock 'N' Roll songwriter Alan Merrill
Bill has paid tribute to Alan Merrill, the co-writer and original singer of I Love Rock 'N' Roll, who has sadly died from coronavirus.
Bill talks success and doubt in Independent.ie interview
Bill has spoken at length with the Irish-based Independent.ie ahead of his Rolling Stones memorabilia auction, sharing his feels of self-doubt and successes.
Bill Wyman's Rolling Stones Archive on show in Ireland
Bill is showing his incredible collection of Rolling Stones memorabilia in Ireland from March 10 to April 20 in Europe's only exhibition of Bill's iconic archive.
Bill set to auction Rolling Stones memorabilia and iconic instruments
Bill is set to auction over 1,000 rare items from his time with the Rolling Stones, including a Let It Bleed-era ’69 Fender Mustang bass, “Rock and Roll Circus” Les Paul and Vox AC30 he used to audition for the band.