In the midst of their massive 'Licks' European tour in 2003, The Rolling Stones offered fans in Munich a truly unique experience. While the tour primarily filled vast stadiums and arenas, the band played three consecutive nights in the city, each at a different venue. This performance captures the third and most intimate of those shows, held on June 8th at the historic Circus Krone, a venue with a capacity of just 3,000. For a band accustomed to playing for tens of thousands, this was a rare opportunity to connect with their audience in a raw, club-like setting.
The 'Licks' tour was celebrated for its diverse and sprawling setlists, and this night was no exception. Alongside timeless hits like 'Jumping Jack Flash' and 'Brown Sugar,' the band dug deep into their catalog with gems like 'Sweet Virginia' and 'Stray Cat Blues.' The set was also peppered with soulful covers, including 'Everybody Needs Somebody to Love' and 'That's How Strong My Love Is.' As was tradition, Keith Richards took center stage for a couple of songs, delivering heartfelt renditions of 'The Nearness of You' and 'Before They Make Me Run,' showcasing the band's incredible range and chemistry.
Professionally filmed, this concert was partially immortalized when the performance of 'I Can't Turn You Loose' was officially included in the 'Four Flicks' DVD box set. However, the full show remains a cherished document for fans, capturing the world's greatest rock 'n' roll band stripping away the stadium spectacle to prove they could still deliver a powerful, sweaty, and unforgettable performance in a small hall. It's a testament to their roots and their enduring power as live performers.