The Rolling Stones Cover Art That Was Rejected For Being “Too Satanic”

April 2, 2025

In the spring of 1972, a young artist named Robert Frank was bursting with excitement. He had been chosen to create the cover for what would become one of the most iconic albums of all time: The Rolling Stones’ “Exile on Main St.” Frank had always admired the band, capturing their raw energy through his photographs. He envisioned a cover that would reflect the gritty, rebellious spirit of the Stones—something that would leave a mark in the world of music. As he sat down to sketch his ideas, he felt a surge of creative energy, ready to channel the band’s wild soul into his artwork.

After weeks of brainstorming, Frank finally unveiled his design. It was bold and raw, filled with striking imagery that echoed the band’s hard-hitting sound. But as the band’s members and their management took a look, their expressions shifted from excitement to concern. The cover featured a chaotic blend of vibrant colors and abstract forms, but there were elements that some perceived as too dark—images that hinted at satanic themes and a shadowy underworld. The band, known for their rebellious nature, found themselves at a crossroads. They loved the intensity of Frank’s vision, but fear crept in; they didn’t want to alienate fans or face backlash.

The phone call came late one night, breaking the quiet of Frank’s studio. The rejection was swift. “It’s too satanic,” they said, and just like that, Frank’s creative dream hung in the balance. He felt crushed and confused. How could something he poured his heart into be seen as dangerous? But rather than wallow in disappointment, he took a deep breath and looked at the situation from another angle. This was just a bump in the road; after all, the journey of an artist is often filled with challenges. Instead of giving up, he channeled his frustration into even more art, creating pieces that pushed boundaries and sparked conversations.

In the end, “Exile on Main St.” was released with a different cover, one that was less controversial but still unique. Though Frank’s design was never showcased, it didn’t mark the end of his story. Instead, it ignited a fire within him. He continued to explore his artistic vision, eventually becoming a celebrated photographer and filmmaker. His works challenged societal norms, just like the Stones did with their music. Each rejection became a stepping stone, teaching him resilience and the importance of staying true to his artistic voice.

Years later, as Frank reflected on that moment, he realized that sometimes being labeled as “too much” was a badge of honor. It meant he was pushing boundaries, stirring emotions, and trying to connect with people in a profound way. His experience became a lesson for aspiring artists everywhere: never let rejection dim your passion. Instead, let it fuel your creativity and drive you to take risks. After all, it’s those very risks that often lead to the most beautiful forms of expression. In the world of art and music, the bravest voices are the ones that rise above the noise, forever leaving their unique mark on the hearts of many.