The Rolling Stones’ Secret Birthday Party at Toad’s Place

On August 12, 1989, the Rolling Stones played a secret warm-up at Toad’s Place in New Haven. The cover story was promoter Jimmy Koplik’s birthday celebration.

The band had been rehearsing in Connecticut before the Steel Wheels tour and wanted a small-room performance. Sons of Bob opened, then the real headliner was announced to the club.

The set brought established songs such as Honky Tonk Women and Jumpin’ Jack Flash together with newer Steel Wheels material. Toad’s became the room where that tour preparation briefly turned into a surprise public concert.

Explore Toad's Place and The Rolling Stones on CouchLot.

Related stories: The Rolling Stones’ Secret Nights at the El Mocambo; Sticky Fingers in Full at the Fonda Theatre.

Sources: ctinsider.com (1); ctinsider.com (2).