The Rolling Stones Foreign Tongues era has officially arrived. Ahead of the album’s global release on July 10, the legendary rock band hosted an opulent launch event in the heart of London. The evening served as a celebration of their latest studio work, bringing together icons of music, film, and sports to witness a rare intimate performance from the group’s core members.
Mick Jagger and Ronnie Wood took center stage to deliver a three-song set that balanced new material with timeless classics. A significant highlight of the night was the live debut of “Ringing Hollow,” a track from the new record. While Jagger has characterized the song as a tribute to the United States, the performance revealed a more complex lyrical narrative. Observers noted that the verses seem to offer a pointed critique of the American political landscape, specifically referencing the symbolic wear and tear on national icons.
The duo transitioned from the new material into the fan-favorite “Dead Flowers” from the 1971 masterpiece Sticky Fingers. They concluded their brief set with a communal rendition of “You Can’t Always Get What You Want,” prompting a massive singalong from the gathered VIPs. The atmosphere was further heightened by a sophisticated drone display that illuminated the London skyline over the River Thames as the festivities drew to a close.
The guest list reflected the band’s enduring cross-generational appeal. Attendees included modern rock star Sam Fender, actor Daniel Craig, and tennis icon John McEnroe. Also present were Foreign Tongues producer Andrew Watt and television personality Claudia Winkleman. The band reflected on the recording process, noting that the album was completed in less than a month at London’s Metropolis Studios, a pace that contributed to the record’s energetic spirit.
Looking toward the future, the prospect of a traditional world tour remains uncertain. In a recent discussion with Uncut, Keith Richards expressed reservations about the physical demands of extensive travel at age 82. However, he signaled a strong interest in the concept of a residency. Richards suggested that performing multiple shows in a single major city—whether London, New York, or Paris—could provide a viable and exciting new format for the band to connect with their audience.