Rolling Stones and Gram Parsons – Who Stole The Hit?

Some songs transcend being mere musical pieces – they evolve into stories, legends, and mysteries that are passed down through generations. “Wild Horses” is one such song. Its story takes us through the world of rock ‘n’ roll, country music, friendship, and the inspiration shared between two musical icons – The Rolling Stones and Gram Parsons.

While today this song is regarded as one of the most beautiful ballads of the 20th century, few people know the journey it took before reaching the audience. Its history is a blend of nostalgia, creative exchange, and sometimes blurred lines between copyright and musical camaraderie.

Mick,Keith and Gram Parsons at Nellcote by Dominique Tarle, 1971

“Wild Horses” – Where Did the Song Really Come From?

The song “Wild Horses” was first released in 1971 on The Rolling Stones’ album “Sticky Fingers”. Its melancholic tone, beautiful guitar harmonies, and emotional lyrics made it one of the most recognizable ballads in British rock history.

However, there’s an interesting detail – Gram Parsons and his band, The Flying Burrito Brothers, recorded their version before The Stones officially released the song. This led to speculation about how Parsons got access to the song and whether Mick Jagger might have “gifted” him the opportunity to record it first.

Parsons and Keith Richards were close friends, and Gram was one of the key figures who influenced Richards’ love for country music. Many music historians argue that without Gram Parsons, The Rolling Stones might never have created songs like “Dead Flowers” or experimented with country sounds on “Sticky Fingers”.

Gram Parsons with his Gibson J-200

The Sound That Shaped the Song

It’s impossible to talk about “Wild Horses” without mentioning the guitars that gave it its distinctive tone.

🔹 Keith Richards was known for using guitars like the Fender Telecaster and Gibson Hummingbird, both of which are famous for their warm and resonant tones. His playing in this song is gentle yet deeply emotional.

🔹 Gram Parsons, on the other hand, frequently played a Gibson J-200, one of the most legendary acoustic guitars, beloved by Elvis Presley, Emmylou Harris, and Bob Dylan. This guitar, with its rich sound and powerful volume, gave Parsons’ version of the song a unique, softer, and more country-inspired tone.

Without these instruments, the song wouldn’t have had the same depth of emotion and signature sound that makes it so special.

The Sound of Legends in Your Hands

If this story inspires you and you’d like to own a guitar that shaped the sound of rock and country music, the Gibson SJ-200 Studio Rosewood Satin is the instrument that can help you find your unique tone. This guitar, with its signature sound and powerful resonance, is a favorite among professional musicians.

At Acoustic Union Guitar Shop, not only can you find this iconic guitar, but each instrument undergoes a professional setup by our expert luthier and comes with a lifetime service guarantee.

Our mission is to provide you with an instrument that will inspire you and last a lifetime. 🎸✨