The Rolling Stones: ‘We’re Pulling Together To Support Mick’

The various members of The Rolling Stones have vowed to support frontman Mick Jagger through his mourning as they negotiate rescheduled Australian and New Zealand tour dates.

The band intended to start their hugely-anticipated Australian tour last night in Perth before Jagger's partner L'Wren Scott died in New York. With local promoters Frontier Touring asking fans to hold onto their tickets before new dates are announced, the individual band members have issued statements on the matter.

“No one saw this coming,” says Keith Richards. “Mick's always been my soul brother and we love him. We're thick as thieves and we're all feeling for the man. We really hate to disappoint our fans but we'll see everyone really soon.”

In his own statement Ronnie Wood said, “As a band we are one big family and we've all come together to support Mick, and will do everything we can to help him. We are currently rescheduling touring plans. We thank everyone for their understanding. We are so grateful for the messages of support at this sad time.”

Wood also said, “Without a doubt we intend to be back out on that stage as soon as we can.”

The sentiments were echoed by Charlie Watts, who said, “Needless to say we are all completely shocked but our first thought is to support Mick at this awful time. We intend to come back to Australia and New Zealand as soon as it proves possible.”

Frontier Touring are making no further statement on dates until all is confirmed, but yesterday they did release details of refunds for ticketholders yesterday. Industry pundits have speculated that the band may find it difficult to reschedule the centre-piece of the tour where they were to open Adelaide Oval this Saturday, something that will become difficult once football season kicks into gear this month. It doesn't finish until late September. The band are touring Europe in June but the key aspect of the situation is that it all depends on Jagger – and his mental health – as to when he'll be ready to get back on stage.

There are conflicting reports that he and the band are still in Australia while The Daily Mail have reported that the band are concerned for Jagger, who has been “dazed and unwell” since hearing the news.

Scott, who had been with Jagger for over a decade, was found dead in her New York apartment on Monday having apparently taken her own life.

Jagger issued a statement yesterday, saying, “I am still struggling to understand how my lover and best friend could end her life in this tragic way. We spent many wonderful years together and had made a great life for ourselves. She had great presence and her talent was much admired, not least by me.

“I have been touched by the tributes that people have paid to her, and also the personal messages of support that I have received.”

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