Bent Rej - The Rolling Stones: In the Beginning - 2006

Title: The Rolling Stones: In the Beginning
Author/Photographer: Bent Rej
Preface: Bill Wyman
Publisher: Mitchell Beazley (London)
Year of publication: 2006
Format: Hardcover with dust jacket and rigid slipcase
Pages: 320
ISBN-10: 184000648X
ISBN-13: 9781840006483
Language: English

This volume is regarded as one of the most important photographic books devoted to the Rolling Stones’ early years. Bent Rej enjoyed privileged access to the band between 1965 and 1966, following them during the famous Satisfaction Tour across Europe and documenting private moments, backstage, travels, homes, and studio work during a crucial period of their transformation into global superstars.

The historical significance of the work stems precisely from the exclusive access Rej obtained, as he was part of the circle of collaborators and friends around the band. Many images show Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Brian Jones, Charlie Watts, and Bill Wyman far from the public image that would later make them global icons.

Bill Wyman has defined this collection as follows:
"The finest single collection of Stones photographs I have ever seen."

There were no specific photographic awards assigned to the volume, but the book is regarded by enthusiasts as one of the reference publications on the Stones’ early era and it received a new expanded edition in 2020 with previously unseen photographs, a sign of its enduring relevance in rock and photographic collectible circles.

The presence of the original editorial box (visible in the photograph) is a greatly appreciated feature by collectors, as many copies in circulation are without it.