Bill attends 'The Great Escaper' World Premiere
Bill attended the World premiere of 'The Great Escaper', starring Michael Caine and Glenda Jackson last Wednesday at the BFI Southbank, London.
The film is based on the true story of a British WW2 veteran who escaped from his nursing home to attend the 70th anniversary D-Day commemorations in France in 2014
Bill was very pleased to receive an invitation from his great friends Michael and Shakira Caine, who he has known since the 1970’s, and greatly enjoyed the film.
‘The Great Escaper’ is released in cinemas on October 6th.
Bill views 'Charlie Watts: Gentleman, Collector, Rolling Stone'
Bill attended a private viewing of Christie’s Charlie Watts collection, currently up for auction.
Bill, like his friend Charlie, is a collector, and had this to say about the collection:
"Charlie’s auction of his collection of books is unbelievable! I have known from over the years that my best friend Charlie collected many things in his life – as I did, but this particular collection of books astounded me."
- Bill Wyman
The auction is a two-part auction comprising an extraordinary library of modern first editions together with landmarks from the world of jazz, collected by renowned musician and Rolling Stones drummer Charlie Watts (1941–2021).
The flagship auction, Charlie Watts: Literature and Jazz Part I, will take place live in London on 28 September, with a Part II open for bidding from 15 to 29 September.
Learn more here.
See photos from Bill's visit below:
Bill unveils childhood memoir book 'Billy in the Wars'
We're thrilled to announce that Bill's latest book, childhood memoir 'Billy in the Wars', will be released via Pegasus Publishers on Tuesday, October 24th – on Bill's birthday!
'Billy in the Wars' is the illustrated memoir of ex-Rolling Stone Bill Wyman, recalling his experiences as a young boy growing up in wartime Britain.
Bill brings history to life through the personal lens of his childhood memories, where grim anecdotes of war are punctuated by moving moments of childhood innocence and joy.
It is available to pre-order NOW - click here to pre-order!
You can also pre-order on Amazon and Waterstones
Amazon pre-order
Waterstones pre-order
https://www.waterstones.com/
Amazon e-book
Bill helps celebrate Eddy Grant's unveiling on to The Music Walk Of Fame
Bill attended the exclusive VIP event An Afternoon with Eddy, held to celebrate Eddy Grant's unveiling on to Camden's The Music Walk Of Fame.
The unique event included a welcome reception, along with a Q&A with Eddy hosted by Kevin Le Gendre.
Eddy, who emigrated to London in the 1960s, has enjoyed a lengthy musical career, with hits including Electric Avenue and I Don't Wanna Dance. Eddy joins other artists recognised on The Music Walk Of Fame, such as Janis Joplin and UB40.
Bill met with Eddy at the event, and says:
"I had a great time meeting Eddy. We first met in the mid-1970s and have remained friends ever since.
We would perform charity events together, and it was from listening to Eddy's rhythms that I created my hit record Je Suis Un Rockstar."
Bill guest stars on Notes From An Artist podcast – listen now!
Bill has appeared on the Notes From An Artist podcast – and you can listen to it now!
Bill joins David C. Gross and Tom Semioli on their podcast 'Notes From An Artist' where he discusses his latest book 'Bill Wyman's Chelsea' on the history of the famous London borough. Listen now here: https://notesfromanartist.buzzsprout.com/1771322/13099716-bill-wyman-discusses-his-latest-book-on-the-history-of-chelsea-london
Bill's latest book – Bill Wyman's Chelsea – is out today!
Bill’s latest book ‘Bill Wyman’s Chelsea’ is out today! Purchase your copy here: https://www.unicornpublishing.org/page/detail/bill-wymans-chelsea/?k=9781911397359
Bill Wyman has worked in the London borough of Chelsea on-and-off since joining the Rolling Stones in 1962, and has lived in the area since 1982. Over the past few years, Bill has walked every street of his beloved neighbourhood, photographing anything unusual that caught his eye: bridges, churches, pubs, shops, houses, monuments, decorative wall plaques, blue historical plaques, statues, weather vanes, front doors, street signs and coal hole covers.
Alongside his photos, Bill began to research the area thoroughly – its history, its stories, and its residents. Bill Wyman's Chelsea is the result of this work: a comprehensive and informative guide to a London borough steeped in culture and history, as seen through the personal and affectionate lens of a long-standing resident, who himself plays a part in the history of the area.
Complete with walking tour itineraries, maps, an A-Z of streets, historical information, over 300 of Bill’s photos and knowledge from an insider; Bill has produced what can confidently be called the ‘Master Book on Chelsea’.
Explore some of the pages from Bill's book below!
Bill meets Roy Hodgson at Crystal Palace's final match of the season
Bill has revealed that he attended the final match of the season for his team Crystal Palace.
Bill says:
I went to see Crystal Palace’s final match of the season against Nottingham Forest. I’ve been a Crystal Palace fan since the first time I saw them in 1946 on my 10th birthday.
It was a memorable occasion – again meeting up with my great friend, manager Roy Hodgson.
You can see a photo of Bill and Roy below, as well as Bill's match ticket!
Bill pays tribute to 'Simply The Best' Tina Turner
Bill has paid tribute to music legend Tina Turner, who sadly passed away this week after a decades-spanning, genre-defining musical career.
Bill says:
Tina Turner was a ‘Force of Nature’ onstage. I knew her for three decades. Whenever we met, she was always friendly and humourous, and she would refer to me as ‘Mr Cool’. She will be sorely missed.
Below is a photo sent from Bill captioned:
Photo is ‘Sharing a Joke’ backstage at the Memorial Coliseum, Los Angeles 11th Oct 1981.
Photo courtesy of the Bill Wyman Archive.
Bill interviewed in The Times Saturday Review
Who caught Bill’s feature in The Times Saturday Review this weekend?
Bill had a walk around Chelsea chatting to Will Hodgkinson about his new book ‘Bill Wyman’s Chelsea’, out on May 31st. You can read the full interview here: https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/bill-wyman-not-for-a-second-have-i-regretted-leaving-the-rolling-stones-8vj6gmtlh
Remember to pre-order your copy of Bill Wyman's Chelsea here: https://unicornpublishing.org/page/detail/bill-wymans-chelsea/?k=9781911397359
Check out some images from the feature below:
Julien's Auctions 'Music Icons' auction to feature rare memorabilia from Bill's archive
Julien's Auctions have announced their 'Music Icons' auction, taking place on May 19th, 20th, and 21st, which includes property from Bill Wyman and his Rolling Stones archive.
This intimate and personal time capsule of items from across Bill's career features important memorabilia, documents, jewellery and other treasures of Rolling Stones history such as Wyman’s silver fruit set and leaves chain necklace worn on the cover of the Stones’ 1976 album, Black and Blue and a silver plate necklace of 13 interlocking Scottish thistle links worn on the cover of his 1975 solo album Monkey Grip; the original black box LP boxed set mock-up of the Rolling Stones Black Box album Bill Wyman came up with in 1974 to make use of the band’s unreleased tracks which he designed with John Pasche, most famous for designing the band’s tongue logo.
Also included is a Rolling Stones cancelled German show poster promoting their show on March 29, 1966 at the Grugahalle in Essen Germany that never happened; invoices, receipts and bills from the Rolling Stones’ day to day schedule and life on the road such as Brian Jones’ invoice from Dandie Fashions (one of the Stones’ favorite clothing shops) in Chelsea dated June 30, 1967; a tray containing 22 Rolling Stones badges from various tours most dating from the 1980s.
Other personal items include a brief letter written in 1965 by Keith Richards (estimate: ($3,000-$5,000) on Hotel Marina, Copenhagen Denmark stationery that reads, "Dear Fred; / Please send this / to my mother as I have / lost her address. / Thanks / Keith / P.S. We're all fine and healthy. / love from lads".
A framed colour photograph of a very jolly-looking Rolling Stones shot during their first trip to continental Europe in April of 1964 when they travelled to Montreux Switzerland to perform at a special Ready Steady Go taping during the TV Golden Rose Festival features, as well as numerous record awards, a Rolling Stones tongue logo telephone, a mustard yellow 1975 American tour cotton terry cloth towel with Rolling Stones tongue logo, posters, and more.
A portion of the proceeds of Bill Wyman’s auction will benefit Kicking the Stigma, “Kicking The Stigma,” The Indianapolis Colts and Irsay Family’s mental health awareness initiative.
Go to https://www.juliensauctions.com/ to find out more and register to bid.
Jeffrey Halford and The Healers cover 'Mississippi Flyer'
Jeffrey Halford and The Healers have done a cover of Bill Wyman's song 'Mississippi Flyer'.
Bill says of the song and video: “I’d heard a lot of Jeffrey’s music, and thought the song might suit him. I had no idea how he would approach it – but guessed that he would do it in his own inimitable style. It surprised me, as he’d changed it a little, but it’s a really nice version – especially the video, which I love very much.”
The video intersperses vintage photographs, and footage of the train and railroad tracks with Halford and the band playing and it’s an engaging accompaniment to an engrossing song.
You can watch the video and listen to the song here:
Bill gives Q&A and book signing to celebrate Record Store Day
Bill attended a fantastic Q&A and signing event at the new Iconic Images gallery on Saturday, 22nd April, to celebrate Record Store Day.
Bill spoke about how he first got into photography as a child, his influences, and his photos of the Rolling Stones (on display and for sale at Iconic Images).
Thank you to everyone who attended.
Pick up a copy of Bill’s book ‘Stones From The Inside’ to see a collection of Bill’s photos of the Stones.
Visions – Bill's 1981 solo hit – updated with stunning new visuals
Bill has shared a visual reworking of his hit song 'Visions', which has been updated with new visuals to accompany the song.
Released as part of Bill's self-titled album 'Bill Wyman' in 1981, it was the follow-up release to Bill's famous hit '(Si Si) Je Suis Un Rock Star' – a song he wrote for his now wife Suzanne Accosta while she was living in Los Angeles.
Bill says Visions carried on his attempt to show his love for her through music. Visions followed the hit single 'Come Back Suzanne'.
Bill and Suzanne tied the knot on April 21, 1993 – and this year the coupled celebrate their 30th wedding anniversary.
Congratulations Bill and Suzanne!
Watch the video below:
Bill's Nuclear Reactions goes supernova with new space visuals
Bill has discovered a stellar update to his 1982 classic song Nuclear Reactions – and he has decided to share it with fans!
Recorded by Bill in 1982 and part of his solo album 'Bill Wyman', Bill says he was inspired to write the song after spending nights stargazing in the South of France in the early 1980s.
"I've always been interested in astronomy," says Bill. "I used to watch the stars from an observatory in Nice, and it was fascinating to see the planets of the solar system, moons and Saturn. It was the inspiration behind the song."
Bill continued his fascination with astronomy over the years, buying two telescopes so he could continue stargazing. He was also firm friends with astronomer Sir Patrick Moore, who fronted the BBC series The Sky At Night – the world's longest-running television series with the same original presenter.
Bill says he found the footage that had been set to his song and lyrics, thought 'wow' – it looks great and he wanted to share it with fans.
The video is embedded below – click to begin your interstellar adventure with the perfect soundtrack.
Find out more about Bill's album 'Bill Wyman'.
Bill Attends Q&A and Book Signing at the Iconic Images Gallery
Bill attended a special Q&A and book signing event at the Iconic Images gallery in Chelsea in December.
He talked about his love of photography and how it all started, met some wonderful fans, and signed and dedicated copies of his book ‘Stones From The Inside’.
Thank you to everyone who braved the snow to come along!
Copies of ‘Stones From The Inside’, Bill’s collection of iconic Rolling Stones photos, are available to purchase online, or stop by the Iconic Images gallery to view and purchase prints of Bill’s work.
Images from the event are below – enjoy!
Bill pays tribute to David English - the 'godfather' of English cricket
Bill has paid tribute to his "dear and lovable" friend David English, known as the "godfather of cricket" and who sadly passed away on Saturday.
David was a famed cricketer, author, fundraiser, record company executive and actor – but he is most remembered for his love and involvement with English cricket.
"I played charity cricket for many years with David English, who was the creator and captain of the Bunbury Charity Cricket team.," says Bill.
"We shared many great moments together at charity matches and numerous social engagements during the forty years or more that I knew him. He introduced me to, and I was honoured to play together with most of the great international and county cricketers of the time – including Ian Botham, Viv Richards, and David Gower.
Bill has many fond memories of his time with David, including this photo of the pair walking off at a charity cricket match after they'd scored 62 runs between them in four overs to win the match (see photo, below).
Bill also shared a number of other photos (below), including this iconic black-&-white shot and a colour photo of the pair at a social engagement.
Bill says that he wants to "say goodbye to a dear and lovable friend who will never be forgotten".
Bill pays tribute to Olivia Newton-John
Bill has paid tribute to Olivia Newton-John following the sad news of her passing on August 8, 2022.
The British-born Australian actress, singer and activist was famed for her role in the 1978 movie Grease. She won four Grammy Awards for her songs, with five number-one hits on the Billboard 100 and two number-one albums on the Billboard 200.
Olivia Newton-John is one of the best-selling female artists in the 20th Century, chalking up over 100m global sales.
Bill says he met Olivia at at reception for singer Tony Bennett (see photo, below), where he chatted to her and found her to be a lovely woman. Bill sends his condolences to her family.
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 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.