New EMP photo exhibit chronicles The Rolling Stones’ early years

Photographer Jim Marshall, considered a pioneer of music photojournalism, was known for capturing some of the most memorable rock ‘n’ roll images, including Jimi Hendrix setting fire to his guitar at the Monterey International Pop Festival and Johnny Cash at San Quentin State Prison.

Marshall was often given unparalleled access to some of the most renowned names in music, and now his images will be made available to the public this weekend at EMP.

In the late photographer’s first solo museum exhibit, The Rolling Stones 1972, Photographs by Jim Marshall features 37 photos captured during the Rolling Stones’ 1972 tour, and original album cover artwork for “Exile on Main St.”  The exhibit at EMP marks the 50th anniversary of the band, and the 40th anniversary of the legendary tour.  The exhibit also coincides with the release of the book The Rolling Stones 1972 by Jim Marshall, foreword by Keith Richards, published by Chronicle Books.

In the book’s forward, Stones guitarist Keith Richards said, “once Jim (Marshall) was in, he was another Stone.  He caught us with our trousers down and got the ups and downs.  I love his work.”

Marshall’s insider status—combined with his keen eye and impeccable timing—has made for some of the most mesmerizing images in the history of rock photography. Covering the 1972 tour for Life magazine, Marshall captured indelible moments of the Stones onstage, as well as the camaraderie behind the scenes.  Many of Marshall’s images from the Exile on Main St. tour will be introduced to the public for the first time. 

Don’t miss the exhibit, opening this Friday and running through Jan. 6.