Harvey Mandel is a name that might not be as instantly recognizable as some rock guitar icons, but his story is interwoven with some of the biggest names in music, most notably, the Rolling Stones. For those in the know, mentioning “Harvey Mandel Guitar” conjures up images of a blues-rock virtuoso, a player who nearly became a Rolling Stone himself during a pivotal moment in the band’s history.
In the mid-1970s, following Mick Taylor’s departure, the Rolling Stones were on the hunt for a new guitarist. Mandel, with his distinctive and fluid guitar style, found himself in the frame. As Mandel recounted, the call came unexpectedly from Mick Jagger himself in the early hours of the morning. The proposition was clear: fly to Munich and potentially become the next guitarist for the Rolling Stones, bringing a “slick guitar” sound to the band.
“At home one night, about three or four in the morning, I got a call from Mick Jagger. He said, ‘We’re in Munich, Germany; we want you to come play a couple of songs. Leave tomorrow.’ The idea was I’d be a replacement for Mick Taylor, playing the slick guitar. But there was a whole argument in the studio. Keith [Richards] wanted Ron Wood, because he wanted to keep it all English. Mick was leaning towards me, because he wasn’t looking for another guitar player onstage, leaping around and doing crazy stuff. Unfortunately, I lost out.” – Harvey Mandel
Ultimately, history took a different turn, and Ron Wood joined the Rolling Stones. However, Mandel’s talent didn’t go unnoticed or unrewarded. He was invited to contribute to the Rolling Stones’ 1976 album, Black and Blue. His “harvey mandel guitar” work is featured on two standout tracks: “Hot Stuff” and “Memory Motel.” This experience provided a unique anecdote, as Mandel humorously recalls his late-night encounter with Jagger at his hotel:
“When I got the call to do Black and Blue, I was taken to the fancy hotel, getting ready to sleep and, all of a sudden, tap-tap-tap on my door, there’s Mick Jagger in his bathrobe,” he adds. “For a split second, I thought, ‘How far will I go to become a Rolling Stone?’ Anyway, that’s my funny Rolling Stones story.” – Harvey Mandel
Beyond his brush with Rolling Stones fame, Harvey Mandel has carved out a respected career as a blues and rock guitarist. His distinctive style and impressive discography have solidified his place in guitar history. However, Mandel is currently facing a serious health challenge. Having previously battled cancer in 2013, which was in remission, the cancer has returned. He is now facing further surgeries and requires support to cover the costs of treatment and rehabilitation.
If you appreciate the contributions of “harvey mandel guitar” to music and want to support a legendary player in his time of need, you can contribute to his GoFundMe page. Your help can make a significant difference in Harvey Mandel’s fight against cancer and ensure his future.
