The Rolling Stones are set to release their first album of original material in nearly 20 years later this week. The set, titled Hackney Diamonds, features a slew of superstar collaborators, including the one and only Paul McCartney. According to one of the members of the band, it seems the former Beatle was as thrilled to be involved as fans of both acts likely are that he was in on the fun.
“He was so happy,” explained Rolling Stones guitarist Ronnie Wood when asked about McCartney’s experience playing on the band’s new album. The rocker spoke to music outlet NME about Hackney Diamonds and their new work with the Beatles legend, who Wood referred to lovingly as “The schoolboy!”
McCartney is featured on the song “Bite My Head Off” on Hackney Diamonds. The tune has been described as leaning into “punk,” which makes it sonically different from much of what’s been heard from the title so far. McCartney played bass on the track, and he’s only credited on the liner notes, not as a featured artist or a songwriter.
The coming together of McCartney and The Rolling Stones is a big deal for fans who grew up with the two acts, or those who love classic rock. For decades, The Beatles and The Rolling Stones were pitted against one another in something of a rivalry, which at times they’ve both fed into and at other times also argued against.
Hackney Diamonds includes several other high-profile collaborators from different eras and genres. The album’s new single, “Sweet Sounds of Heaven,” features Lady Gaga, and it reached the Billboard charts last week. The set also credits beloved musicians like Elton John, Stevie Wonder and Bill Wyman.