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Of the Rolling Stones, Brian Jones was born, raised and following his death, buried in Cheltenham, England. He was the subtle, hypersensitive, intellectual of the 'Stones and had his own unique brand of style and charisma. His musical influences included Muddy Waters, B.B. King, Johnny Cash and Howlin Wolf.
He was regarded by many as an artist of multi-instrumental talents, and had the ability to play any instrument within hours. From the slide guitar on 'Little Red Rooster' through to the sitar on 'Paint It Black', he lent an exotic touch to the Stones' gritty brand of R&B. He also shone when playing the dulcimer, marimbas, harpsichord and African flute.
Brian wrote the soundtrack for the film 'Degree of Murder' - the German entry into the 1967 Cannes Film Festival which starred Anita Pallenberg. This has never been officially released on video or CD. Outside of music, he was a keen railway enthusiast, and enjoyed swimming, cinema and dancing. He was also noted as a keen drinker of tea!
Although having the kind of looks that would lead to the boasting of "64 women in one month" and often being referred to as "the most courteous artist in show business", his drug taking was a poorly kept secret and was to take its toll on his appearance -evidence of which can be seen in The Rolling Stones 'Rock n Roll Circus', the bands 1968 TV special and Brian's last ever live appearance with the band.
Brian purchased Cotchford Farm - the former home of 'Winnie The Pooh' author A.A. Milne - in November 1968, and left The Rolling Stones in June 1969. He was planning on forming a new band following his departure from the 'Stones but was found dead under mysterious circumstances at the bottom of the swimming pool at his luxury home in the early hours of 3rd July 1969. Born on the 28th February 1942, Brian died at the age of 27.
Since his death a steady stream of admirers, both young and old, have made the pilgrimage to his final resting place near to the church in the Prestbury area of Cheltenham where he had once been a model choirboy.
