Brian Jones: Meaning (information, definition, explanation, facts)

Brian Jones (February 28, 1942 - July 2, 1969) was the original lead guitarist and backing singer behind Mick Jagger in The Rolling Stones. He was also the group's original leader but whereas his intention was to bring the "authentic" rhythm and blues sound to white audiences in Britain, Jagger and second guitarist Keith Richard (later Keith Richards) had their sights set on stardom. Brian gave in to them and gradually gave up control of the group and Keith's image was promoted somewhat more heavily, with him taking more of the spotlight (backing vocals and guitar solos) and Brian receiving less. Nevertheless Brian did show incredible musical skill and throughout his years with the band he played guitar, slide guitar, piano, sitar, dulcimer, mellotron, xylophone, marimbas, recorder, clarinet and several other instruments besides. However, his self-indulgent lifestyle got the better of him and his career and in early June, 1969, he was dropped from the band and "replaced" by virtuoso guitarist Mick Taylor (who, it was rumoured, had already started working with the band weeks before Brian was sacked under the guise of an "amicable split"). Brian drowned almost a month later, seemingly under the influence of alcohol and sedatives. The coroner's report stated "Death by misadventure." However, his then-girlfriend Anna Wohlin claimed in 2000 that he had been murdered by a builder who had been staying with them renovating the house the couple shared. The builder, Frank Thorogood, reputedly confessed to the murder on his deathbed but passed away before a confession could be recorded by the authorities.

A man of slight stature -- he was only 5'6" -- yet considerably intelligent (his IQ was 135), Brian was a popular fashion icon as much, if not more so, than he was a rock star. Living a notorious lifestlye in which he fathered several children to almost as many women and indulged in alcohol and drugs, he was buried in a lavish silver and bronze casket sent for his funeral in Cheltenham, England by friend Bob Dylan.