Exile on Main St. is more than just an album — it’s a myth. Recorded in the humid basement of Villa Nellcôte on the French Riviera, in a haze of exile, heroin, and endless late-night sessions, The Rolling Stones created what many now call their greatest masterpiece. In this detailed exploration, Richard Ward dives deep into the story behind Exile on Main St. , uncovering the chaos, the creativity, and the raw brilliance that shaped its 18 tracks. From the gospel grit of “Shine a Light” to the ramshackle country of “Sweet Virginia,” from the murky grooves of “Ventilator Blues” to the swagger of “Tumbling Dice,” this book takes you track by track through the Stones’ most sprawling and mysterious statement. Inside, you’ll discover: The wild atmosphere of Villa Nellcôte, where sessions blurred into legend. - How Keith Richards’ lifestyle shaped the sound of the album. - The contributions of Bobby Keys, Nicky Hopkins, Mick Taylor, and guest musicians who added soul, grit, and gospel fire. - The myths and truths of sex, drugs, and decadence during the Stones’ French exile. - The album’s troubled release, critical backlash, and eventual rise to classic status. - Its influence on punk, Americana, indie rock, and generations of musicians to come. Part history, part musical journey, part cultural study — this is the ultimate guide to understanding why Exile on Main St. remains The Rolling Stones’ most mythic statement. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering the album for the first time, this book will take you straight into the heart of one of rock’s greatest legends.