As The Rolling Stones were prepping to headline two nights at legendary Wembley Stadium in June 1999 — the band's first London concerts in four years — they announced a surprise show at London's Shepherd's Bush Empire for June 8, 1999. A truly intimate crowd of only 1,800 fans were on hand to hear The Rolling Stones perform a wide-ranging set of enduring hits as well as rarely-performed gems over an unforgettable 96 minutes.
"Welcome to Shepherd's Bush," Mick Jagger notes to kick off the event. "I've been waiting to say that for a little bit." On Dec. 6, 2024, Mercury Studios released the concert film "Welcome to Shepherd's Bush" via multiple formats that fully capture the amazing once-in-a-lifetime show. (The title reviewed here marks the first ever 4K UltraHD release and includes a Dolby Atmos sound option). "Welcome to Shepherd's Bush" is also available via 2LP black vinyl package, direct-to-consumer two-LP set in 180-gram white vinyl, Blu-ray+2CD, and via a 2CD limited edition package of only 15,000 worldwide.
While Rolling Stones fans will be thrilled with the fiery versions of hits including "It's Only Rock 'N' Roll (But I Like It)," "Honky Tonk Women" (the latter featuring guest Sheryl Crow), and trio of crowd-pleasing classics ("Tumbling Dice," "Brown Sugar" and "Jumpin' Jack Flash"), the real thrill of the title is the inclusion of so many seldom-heard nuggets. Indeed, the set includes the only known performance of "Moon Is Up" (from the band's Voodooo Lounge album), a stellar track bolstered by a melodic chorus that features Jagger on blues harp. "Melody" (from Black and Blue) is performed for only the second time ever, and another welcome rarity includes the catchy blues rocker "Brand New Car" bolstered by Ronnie Wood's wah pedal adorned guitar work.
Keith Richards is featured on lead vocals on two strong performances ("You Got The Silver," "Before They Make Me Run"), and other highlights from the concert include the rollicking show opener "Shattered," freewheeling rocker "Respectable," and driving version of the classic "Route 66."
Robert Kinsler
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