Legendary frontman Mick Jagger has indicated his readiness and hope for The Rolling Stones to embark on a tour in 2025. The potential tour would support their upcoming 25th studio album, 'Foreign Tongues', which is scheduled for release on 10 July. Speaking on US television, Jagger suggested that a tour this year was unlikely but expressed optimism for live performances next year.
The announcement comes as the band prepares to launch 'Foreign Tongues', featuring 14 tracks, following the release of their lead single 'In the Stars' last month. Jagger highlighted the album's diverse styles, stating that the intention was for 'every track to have something for everyone'. He also revealed that 10 of the album's songs were written and recorded in a concentrated four-week period, a process facilitated by the band members' individual songwriting approach.
Despite forming over six decades ago, The Rolling Stones continue to be one of the world's most successful live acts. Their most recent North American tour, in support of 'Hackney Diamonds' (their first album of original material in nearly two decades), reportedly grossed almost a quarter of a billion US dollars, equivalent to approximately £197 million, selling 880,000 tickets. This demonstrates the enduring appeal and significant economic impact of their live performances.
For UK households and businesses, particularly within the entertainment and hospitality sectors, a major Rolling Stones tour could bring a considerable boost. Large-scale concerts attract tens of thousands of attendees, leading to increased spending on travel, accommodation, food, and merchandise. This influx of activity can benefit local economies in cities hosting concert dates, from hotels and restaurants to transport providers and retail outlets. While direct ticket sales generate substantial revenue for the band and promoters, the ripple effect across supporting industries can be significant.
However, the economic impact for UK households would largely depend on the specific tour dates and locations. For fans, ticket prices for such high-demand events can be substantial, alongside associated travel and accommodation costs. While a tour could provide employment opportunities in the event management and hospitality sectors, the broader economic implications for UK savers, mortgage holders, and investors are more indirect. The Bank of England's current focus on inflation and interest rates means that discretionary spending on entertainment, while important, is often balanced against other household financial priorities. Investors with holdings in entertainment or hospitality companies might see some positive sentiment, but this would likely be marginal in the context of broader market trends.